CHAPTER 1
BASIC CONCEPTS
Student’s Tip - Students should prepare this chapter
thoroughly from two view points, namely, one in every
examination some marks are attributed to this chapter and
two, unless students understand the concepts discussed
here, they will not be able to grasp the following chapters
easily.
SYNOPSIS :
1. Cost Accountancy
2. Cost Accounting
2.1 Definition of Cost Accounting
2.2 Objectives of Cost Accounting
2.3 Importance of Cost Accounting
2.4 Advantages of Cost Accounting
2.5 Limitations of Cost Accounting
2.6 Reports Generated by Cost Accounting Department
3. Installation of Cost Accounting System
3.1 Basic Considerations
3.2 Steps in Introduction
3.3 Essentials of a Good Cost Accounting System
3.4 Difficulties in Introduction
4. Role of a Cost Accountant
5. Cost Accounting, Financial Accounting &
Management Accounting
5.1 Cost Accounting and Financial Accounting
5.2 Cost Accounting and Management Accounting 6. Cost - Concepts and Terms
6.1 Cost
6.2 Pre-determined Cost
6.3 Standard Cost
6.4 Estimated Cost
6.5 Marginal Cost
6.6 Differential Cost
6.7 Discretionary Cost
6.8 Decision Driven Cost
6.9 Managed / Policy Cost
6.10 Postponable Cost
6.11 Imputed / Notional Cost
6.12 Inventoriable / Product Cost
6.13 Opportunity Cost
6.14 Out-of-pocket Cost
6.15 Joint Cost
6.16 Period Cost
6.17 Sunk Cost
6.18 Committed Cost
6.19 Shut down Cost
6.20 Relevant Cost
6.21 Replacement Cost
6.22 Absolute Cost
6.23 Cost Centre
6.24 Cost Unit
6.25 Cost Allocation
6.26 Cost Apportionment
6.27 Cost Absorption
6.28 Responsibility Centre
7. Elements of Costs
7.1 Material Cost
7.2 Labour Cost
7.3 Expenses
7.4 Overheads
8. Classification of Costs
8.1 By Nature
8.2 By Behaviour
8.3 By Element
8.4 By Function 8.5 By Controllability
8.6 By Normality
8.7 By Time When Computed
9. Types / Techniques of Costing
9.1 Historical Costing
9.2 Uniform Costing
9.3 Standard Costing
9.4 Direct Costing
9.5 Marginal Costing
9.6 Absorption Costing
9.7 Difference Between Various Types of Costing
10. Methods of Costing
10.1 Job Costing
10.2 Batch Costing
10.3 Contract Costing
10.4 Process Costing
10.5 Operating Costing
10.6 Single Output or Unit Costing
10.7 Multiple Costing
11. Analysis of Last Questions
11.1 Scanning of Questions Asked in Past Examinations
11.2 Frequency Table Showing Distribution of Marks
1. COST ACCOUNTANCY
The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants
of England defines Cost Accountancy as follows:
"The application of costing and cost accounting
principles, methods and techniques to the science,
art and practice of cost control and the
ascertainment of profitability. It includes the
presentation of information, derived therefrom for
the purpose of managerial decision making."
Thus cost accountancy is a very comprehensive term. 2. COST ACCOUNTING
2.1 Definition of Cost Accounting :
Based on the terminology published by the Institute of
Cost and Management Accountants of England, Cost
Accounting is defined as the process of accounting for
cost. This process begins with the recording of income and
expenditure or the bases on which they are calculated and
ends with the preparation of periodical statements and
reports to ascend and control costs.
2.2 Objectives of Cost Accounting :
Following are the main objectives of Cost Accounting -
(i) Ascertainment of Cost:
It can be done in two ways, namely,
(a) Post Costing, where the ascertainment of cost is done
based on actual information as recorded in financial books.
(b) Continuous Costing, where the process of
ascertainment is of a continuous nature i.e. where cost
information is available as and when a particular activity is
completed, so that the entire cost of a particular job is
available the moment it is completed.
(ii) Determination of Selling Price:
Though there are various other considerations for fixing the
selling price of a product (like the market conditions etc.),
cost of the product is an important factor which cannot be
sidelined.
(iii) Ascertainment of Profit :
The purpose of any business activity is to earn a profit and
profit can be computed by matching the revenue and cost
of that particular product/activity.
(iv)Cost Control and Cost Reduction:
Cost Control and Cost Reduction are two different
concepts.
Cost Control aims at maintaining the costs in accordance
with established standards. It involves the following steps -
a. Determination of target cost
b. Measurement of actual cost
c. Analysis of variation for target cost
d. Initiation of corrective action.
Cost Reduction on the other hand aims at improvement
established targets. It is defined as "the achievement of
real and permanent reduction in the unit cost of
goods manufactured or services rendered without
impairing their suitability for the use intended or
diminution in the quality of the product."
The difference between Cost Cost Control and Cost
Reduction can be summarized as under:
[May'94]
Cost Control Cost Reduction
1. It represents efforts made
ds towards achieving a target
or a goal.
1. It represents achievement
of reduction of cost .
2. The process of cost control
is to Set-up a target,
investigate the variations and
take remedial action.
2. Cost reduction is not
contended merely with the
maintenance of performance
with standards.
3. It assumes existence of
norms or Standards which are
not challenged.
3. It assumes that the
standards can be improved.
4. It is preventive function. 4. It is a corrective function.
5. Sometimes, it lacks a
dynamic approach.
5. It is continuous process of
analysis of all the factors
affecting cost.
(v) Facilitation of Inventory Valuation :
As per the Accounting Standard 2 on Valuation of
Inventories, Inventories are to be valued at "lower of
cost and net realisable value". Costing accounting
determines the ascertainment of this "cost" based on
which the inventory is valued.
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(vi) Assisting Management in Decision-making :
Decision-making is a process of choosing between two or
more alternatives, based on the resultant outcome of the
various alternatives. A Cost Benefit Analysis also needs to
be done. All this can be achieved through a good cost
accounting system.
2.3 Importance of Cost Accounting :
The importance of cost accounting can be highlighted
through the following benefits which accrue to any
business concern:
(i) Control of Material Cost :
Normally, material cost constitutes a major portion of the
cost of the product. Hence control of material cost can
ensure a good amount of benefit. Control of material cost
can be exercised as follows :
a. Maintaining optimum level of stock to avoid
unnecessary locking up of capital
b. Maintaining an uninterrupted supply of materials
c. Use of techniques like value analysis, standardisation
etc.
(ii) Control of Labour Cost :
Labour cost control can be exercised as follows:
a. Setting standard time for each activity and keeping
adverse variance to the minimum
b. Laying down proper remuneration schemes
c. Control over labour turnover
d. Control over idle time, overtime
(iii) Control of Overheads :
Overheads are nothing but indirect expenses incurred at
the factory, office and sales depots. Again control over
overheads will ensure a control over the total cost of the
product and a higher profit margin.
(iv) Determination of Selling Price :
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Refer 2.2 (ii) above.
(v) Budgeting :
Any commercial activity begins with the preparation of
budgets for the same. A budget serves as a guideline
against which the actual performance can be measured
and continuous corrective action can be taken to ensure
that the budget is adhered to.
(vi) Measuring Efficiency :
Efficiency can be measured by comparing actuals against
standards and corrective action can be taken.
(vii) Strategic Decision-making:
Cost accounting enables the management to take up
various strategic decisions like "Make or Buy", "Shut down
or Continue", "Replace or Continue", " Status quo or
Expansion" etc.
2.4 Advantages of Cost Accounting :
(i) Helps optimum utilization of men, materials and
machines
(ii) Identifies areas requiring corrective action
(iii) Identifies unprofitable activities, losses, inefficiencies
(iv) Helps price fixation
(v) Facilitates cost control and cost reduction
(vi) Facilitates use of various cost accounting
techniques, like, variance analysis, value analysis etc.
(vii) Helps management in formulation of policies
(viii)Helps management in making strategic financial
decisions. For eg: the technique of marginal costing helps
the management in making various short term decisions.
(ix) Helps in formation of cost centres and
responsibility centres to exercise control
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(x) Marginal Cost having a linear relationship with
production volume enables in formulation and solution of
"Linear Programming Problems".
(xi) Provides a data-base for reference by government,
wage tribunals and trade unions etc.
2.6 Limitations of Cost Accounting :
i. It is not an exact science and involves inherent
element of judgement.
ii. Cost varies with purpose. Therefore cost collected
for one purpose will not be suitable for another
purpose.
iii. Cost accounting presents the base for taking the best
decisions. It does not give an outright solution .
iv. Most of the cost accounting techniques are based on
some pre-assumed notions.
v. The apportionment of common costs comes
under a lot of criticism.
vi. There are different views held by different experts
on the treatment of certain items of cost.
2.6 Reports Generated by Cost Accounting
Department :
The Cost Accounting Department generates the following
reports as a routine, for use of its executives:
i. Expen
ii. Cost Sheet giving details as to component wise
break-up of each element of cost as compared with
previous year’s data, competitors data.
iii. Material Consumption Statement, showing total
quantity and types of material issued and used,
wastage’s if any. Comparison of actual v/s standard.
iv. Labour Utilization statement showing total
number of hours, budgeted & actually worked, types
of labour utilised, idle time etc.
v. Labour Turnover , cost of recruitment and training
of new employees.
vi. Overheads Statement giving break-up of various
types of overheads, the actual overheads incurred as
against the budgeted and the over/under absorption,
if any
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vii. Sales Statement giving product wise break-up of
unit realisation, volume achieved as against the
targets.
viii. Inventory Analysis Sheet giving break-up of
inventories into materials, work-in-progress and
finished goods, their number of months holding as
against the normal holding period in the industry.
ix. Statement of Abnormal wastages / losses /
spoilages
x. ses incurred on research and development as
compared with the budget.
xi. Any other report pertaining to any cost centre
(explained later).
3. INSTALLATION OF COST ACCOUNTING SYSTEM
[May'96, Nov'99]
3.1 Basic Considerations in Installation of Cost
Accounting System :
A system is an established set of procedures
for the purpose of achieving specific objectives
at minimum cost. A lot of problems can be
avoided if the cost accounting system is
introduced carefully. Before setting up a system
of cost accounting, the under mentioned
factors should be studied :
i. The objective of costing system i.e whether it is
for price fixation or for cost control or for a particular
management decision.
ii. Size of the organisation, general organisation of
the business with a view to finding out the manner
on which the system could be introduced
iii. Areas of functioning wherein the management's
action will be most beneficial.
iv. Management’s policies and expectations. The
system of costing should be designed after a careful
study of the management's polices and expectations.
v. Methods & procedures in vogue for purchase,
receipts, storage and issue of material, methods of
wage payment etc.
vi. Technical aspects of the business should be
studied thoroughly by the designers. They should
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also make an attempt to seek the assistance and
support of the supervisory staff and workers of the
organisation for the system.
vii. The maximum amount of information that would
be sufficient and how the same should be secured
without too much burden on the existing system of
the organisation.
viii. Forms standardisation - various forms to be used
by costing system for various data collection and
dissemination.
ix. The degree of accuracy of data to be supplied by
the system and how verification of such data can be
brought about.
x. Benefits of system to be explained - the manner
in which the benefits of installation of the cost
accounting system should be explained and how an
awareness of the utility of the same should be
created.
xi. The manner in which an integral system of
accounts can be devised so as to automatically
reconcile financial profit with costing profit with the
help of control accounts.
xii. Information requirements of management, the
nature of reports to be generated through the cost
accounting system
3.2 Steps in Introduction of Cost Accounting System
: [Nov'93]
The introduction of a cost accounting system will involve
the following steps:
i. Codification and classification
ii. Establishment of cost centres
iii. Guidelines for separation of fixed and variable costs
iv. Guidelines for allocation of indirect costs
v. Introduction of standard formats
vi. Specification of reports and their periodicity
vii. Preparation of Cost Accounts Manual
viii. Guidelines for post-installation appraisal of costing
system
3.3 Essentials of a Good Cost Accounting System :
[Nov'93, May'96]
i. It should be simple and practical.
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ii. It should be tailor-made for the requirements of the
organisation.
iii. The data to be used by the cost accounting system
should be accurate or else the output will suffer.
iv. The system of costing should not sacrifice the utility
by introducing meticulous and unnecessary details.
v. The cost of installation should justify the results.
vi. Active co-operation and participation of executives
from different departments ensures in developing a
good cost accounting system.
vii. A carefully phased program should be prepared
by using network analysis for the introduction of the
system.
3.4 Difficulties Likely to be Experienced in the
Introduction of a Cost Accounting System :
Following initial difficulties are likely to be experienced
when a new costing system is introduced :
i. Lack of support from other departmental heads
ii. Resistance from accounting staff
iii. Non co-operation from the supervisory staff
iv. Shortage of trained staff
4. ROLE OF A COST ACCOUNTANT IN A MANUFACTURING
ORGANISATION
A cost accountant in a manufacturing organisation plays
several important roles
i. He establishes a cost accounting department in
his concern.
ii. He ascertains the requirement of cost
information which may be useful to organisational
managers at different levels of the hierarchy.
iii. He develops a manual, which specifies the
functions to be performed by the cost accounting
department. The manual also contains the format of
various forms which would be utilised by the concern
for procuring and providing information to the
concerned officers. It also specifies the frequency at
which the cost information would be supplied to a
concerned executive.
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Usually, the functions performed by a cost accounting
department includes -cost ascertainment, cost comparison,
cost reduction, cost control and cost reporting.
a. Cost ascertainment, requires the classification of
costs into direct and indirect. Further it requires
classification of indirect costs (known as overheads)
into three classes viz., factory overheads;
administration overheads and selling and distribution
overheads. Cost accountant suggests the basis which
may be used by his subordinates for carrying out the
necessary classifications as suggested above.
b. Cost comparison is the task carried out by cost
accountant for controlling the cost of the products
manufactured by the concern. Cost accountant of the
concern establishes standards for all the elements of
cost and thus a standard cost of the finished product.
The standard cost so determined may be compared
with the actual cost to determine the variances. Cost
accountant ascertains the reasons for the occurrence
of these variances for taking suitable action.
c. Cost analysis may also be made by cost Accountant
for taking decisions like make or buy and for
reviewing the current performance.
d. Cost accountant also plays a key role in the
preparation of cost reports. These reports help the
executives of a business concern in reviewing their
own performance and in identifying the weak areas,
where enough control measures may be taken in
future.
In brief, one may say that there is hardly any activity in a
manufacturing organisation with which a cost accountant is
not directly associated in some form or the other.
5 COST ACCOUNTING, FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING AND
MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING
5.1 Cost Accounting And Financial Accounting :
Financial Accounting is concerned with the
preparation of financial statements, which
summarise the results of operations for a
selected period of time and show the financial
position of the organisation as at a particular
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date. It helps to assess the overall progress of
an organisation, its strength and weakness. It
facilitates effective control over the assets of
the organisation.
However, there are serious limitations of
financial accountancy from the point of view of
the management. It is on account of these
limitations that "Costs Accounting" has
been developed for the purpose of
management control and internal
reporting.
The limitations of financial accounting together
with procedures that over come the limitations
are given below:
Limitations of Financial
Accounting
Overcome By Cost Accounting
Forecasting and Planning
Financial accounts cannot provide
information required for future planning.
Budget technique of cost
accounting overcomes this
hurdle.
Decision-making
Day-to-day decision making like -
1. Which product mix is the most
profitable ?
2. When to shut down the activity ?
3. When will the break-even point
be achieved?
Cannot be facilitated by financial
accounting.
The technique of marginal costing
overcomes the decision-making
limitation. The management can
make accurate decisions by
analysis of the cost incurred / to be
incurred.
Control and Assessment
Financial accounting does not
provide management with the
information required to assess the
The techniques of budgeting and
standard costing enable
management to perform this
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performance of various departments
/ persons.
function.
Thus the important limitations of
financial accountancy namely, lack
of analysis of data and absence of
yardsticks is very well overcome by
cost accountancy.
5.2 Cost Accounting and Management Accounting :
The scope of management accounting is
broader than that of cost accounting. In cost
accounting, the main emphasis is on cost and
it deals with its collection, analysis, relevance,
interpretation and presentation for various
problems of the management. Management
accountancy utilizes the principles and
practices of financial accounting in addition to
other modern management techniques for
efficient operation of the organisation.
The main emphasis in management
accountancy is towards determining policy and
formulating plans to achieve the desired
objective of the management.
Management accountancy has been defined by CIMA as
under :
"An internal part of concerned with identifying,
presenting and interpreting information used for:
a. Formulating strategy
b. Planning and controlling activities
c. Decision making
d. Optimising the use of resources
e. Disclosure to shareholders and others external to the
entity
f. Disclosure to employees
g. Safeguarding assets".
6. COST - CONCEPTS AND TERMS
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6.1 Cost - Cost represents the amount of expenditure
(actual or notional) incurred on or attributable to a given
thing. It represents the resources that have been or must
be sacrificed to attain a particular objective.
6.2 Pre-determined cost - It is the cost which is
computed in advance, before the production starts, on the
basis of specification of all the factors affecting the cost.
6.3 Standard cost - It is a pre-determined cost which is
arrived at, assuming a particular level of efficiency in
utilisation of material, labour and other indirect services. It
is the planned cost of a product and is expected to be
achieved under a particular production process under
normal conditions. It is often used as a basis for price fixing
and cost control.
6.4 Estimated Cost - It is an approximate assessment of
what the cost will be. It is based on past data adjusted to
anticipated future changes.
(Note : Standard cost Vs Estimated cost [Nov'92]
Although pre-determination is the essence of both standard
cost and estimated cost, they differ from each other in the
following respects:
a. Difference in computation
b. Difference in emphasis
c. Difference in use
d. Difference in records
e. Difference in applicability
6.5 Marginal cost - It is the amount at any given volume
of output by which aggregate cost changes if the volume
of output changes increases/decreases) by one unit.
6.6 Differential cost - It is the difference in the total cost
between alternatives calculated to assist decision making
Thus, it represents the change in total cost (both fixed and
variable) due to a change in the level of activity,
technology, process or method of production, etc.
6.7 Discretionary cost - It is an "escapable" or
"avoidable" cost. In other words, it is that cost which is not
essential for the accomplishment of a particular objective.
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6.8 Decision-driven cost - It is that cost which is incurred
following a policy decision and continues to be incurred till
that decision is altered. It does not vary with changes in
output or with operational activities.
6.9 Managed / Policy cost - It is that cost which is
incurred as a matter of policy eg: R & D cost. This cost has
two important features :
a. It arises from periodic (usually annual) decisions
regarding the maximum outlay to be incurred
And
b. This cost is not tied to a cause and effect relationship
between input and output.
(Note : Decision-driven cost Vs Managed / Policy
cost while managed / policy cost arises from periodic
decisions (usually annual), decision-driven cost has no such
fixed frequency).
6.10 Post-ponable cost - It is that cost which can be
shifted to the future with little or no effect on the efficiency
of the current operations.
6.11 Imputed / Notional cost - CIMA defines notional
cost as "the value of benefits where no actual cost is
incurred". Thus, imputed cost is that cost which does not
involve any cash outlay. Though it is a hypothetical cost, it
is relevant for decision making. Interest on capital, the
payment for which is not actually made, is an example of
imputed cost.
6.12 Inventoriable / Product cost - It is the cost which is
assigned to the product. For eg : Under marginal costing ®
variable manufacturing cost. Under absorption costing ®
total manufacturing cost (fixed and variable) constitute
product or inventoriable cost.
6.13 Opportunity cost - It refers to the value of sacrifice
made or benefit of opportunity forgone in accepting an
alternative course of action. For e.g. If Mr. A works in his
brother’s firm instead of working in X Ltd., then the loss of
salary Mr. A suffers by foregoing employment in X Ltd., is
the opportunity cost of working in his brother's firm.
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6.14 Out of pocket cost - It is that portion of total cost
which involves cash outlay. It is a short term cost concept
and is used in short- term decision making like make or
buy, price fixation during recession. Out of pocket cost can
be avoided if a particular proposal under consideration is
not accepted.
6.15 Joint cost - It is the cost of the process which results
in more than one main product.
6.16 Period cost - It is the cost which is not assigned to
the product but is charged as an expense against the
revenue of the period in which it is incurred. All the nonmanufacturing costs like administrative, selling and
distribution expenses are treated as period costs.
6.17 Sunk cost - Historical cost which is incurred in the
past is known as sunk cost. This cost is not relevant in
decision making in the current period. For eg. In the case of
a decision relating to the replacement of a machine, the
written down value of the existing machine is a sunk cost
and hence irrelevant to decision making.
6.18 Committed cost - It is a fixed cost which results
from decisions of prior period and is not subject to
managerial control in the present. Examples of committed
cost are depreciation, insurance premium and rent.
6.19 Shut down cost - The fixed cost which cannot be
avoided during the temporary closure of a plant is known
as shut down cost. Examples of shut down cost are
depreciation and rent.
6.20 Relevant cost - CIMA defines relevant cost as " cost
appropriate to a specific management decision".
6.21 Replacement cost - It is the cost of replacement in
the current market.
6.22 Absolute cost - It is the total cost of any product or
process. For e.g.: in a cost sheet, both absolute cost and
cost per unit are depicted.
6.23 Cost centre - [May'95, May'97]
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Meaning - For the installation of a cost accounting system,
the organization is divided into sub-units. Cost centre is the
smallest organisational sub-unit for which separate cost
collection is attempted. It is defined as a location, a person
or an item of equipment (or group of these) for which cost
may be ascertained and used for the purpose of cost
control.
Types - Primarily there are two types of cost centres,
namely:
a. Personal cost centre - consisting of a person or a
group of persons
b. Impersonal cost centre - consisting of a location or an
item of equipment (or a group of these).
Functionally, there are two types of cost centres, namely:
a. Production cost centre - It is a cost centre where both
direct and indirect expenses are incurred for the
production. Following are the examples of production
cost centres- machine shop, milling and turning shop,
assembly shop.
b. Service Cost Centre - A cost centre which renders
services to production cost centres is termed as
service cost centre. It serves as an ancillary unit to
the production cost centre.
Powerhouse, boiler plant, repair shop, material
service centre, all are examples of service cost
centres.
Considerations - Formation of appropriate cost centres is
very important for the purpose of cost control. Important
considerations for the formation of cost centres are as
follows:
a. Organisation of the factory
b. Conditions prevalent for incurrence of cost
c. Management’s decision needs
6.24 Cost unit - Meaning - Once the cost of various cost
centres is ascertained, the need arises to express the cost
of output (product / service). A cost unit is defined as a unit
of quantity of product, service or time (or a combination of
these) in relation to which costs may be ascertained or
expressed.
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Cost units are usually units of physical measurement like
number, weight, time, area, length, volume etc.
Examples - A few typical examples of cost units are given
below :
Industry Cost Unit Basis
Automobile Number
Bicycle Number
Transport Tonne-kilometer
Passenger-kilometer
Furniture Each article
Bridge construction Each contract
Interior decoration Each job
Advertising Each job
Nursing home Bed or day
Power Kilowatt hour
Bricks Number
Cement Tonne, bag
Steel Tonne
Chemical Litre, gallon,
tonne,kilogram
Sugar Tonne
Coal Tonne
6.25 Cost allocation - Cost allocation refers to the
allotment of whole items of costs to cost centres. For
example, if a worker is employed in department "A", then
the wages paid to the worker are allocated or charged to
department "A". This process of charging the entire wages
(being ‘cost’) of the worker to department "A" is termed as
cost allocation.
6.26 Cost apportionment - It is the process of
distributing an item of cost over several cost centres or
cost units. Thus, one item of cost is charged to two or more
cost centres or cost units. Normally overheads (indirect
costs) are charged to cost centres or cost units by way of
apportionment in proportion to the anticipated benefits.
( Note : Cost allocation Vs Cost apportionment. The
former involves the process of charging direct expenditure
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to cost centres or cost units while the latter involves the
process of charging indirect expenditure to cost centres or
cost units.)
6.27 Cost absorption - It is the process of absorbing the
overhead costs (indirect costs) allocated to or apportioned
over a particular cost centre. Thus cost absorption follows
cost allocation and cost apportionment. Selection of correct
method of overhead absorption is very important for
pricing policies, tenders and other managerial decisions.
Overhead absorption is accomplished through overhead
rates. For eg. the overhead costs of a ‘grinding centre’ may
be absorped by using a rate per " grinding" hour.
6.28 Responsibility centre - Meaning - When an
organisation is divided into different sub-units according to
the responsibility and for each sub-unit, a specified
individual is made responsible, then the sub-unit thus
formed is termed as a responsibility centre. Thus, a
responsibility centre is defined as an activity centre of a
business organisation entrusted with a special task.
The specified individual is held accountable only for those
activities which he directly affects. Under modern
budgeting and control, finance executives tend to apply
the concept of responsibility centres for the purpose of
control.
Types -
Responsibility centres can be classified as under:
a. Cost centres - Refer 6.23 above
b. Profit centres - Centres, which have the responsibility
of generating and maximising profits , are called
profit centres. [Nov'97]
c. Investment centres - Centres which are responsible
for earning an optimum return on investments are
termed as investment centres.
d. Revenue centres - Centres which are devoted to
raising revenue with no responsibility for production
are called revenue centres. Eg. Sales centre.
e. Contribution centres - Profit centres whose
expenditure are reported on a marginal cost basis,
are called contribution centres.
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7. ELEMENTS OF COST
The following diagram depicts the various elements of
cost:
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7.1 Material Cost :
i. Direct Materials - Materials which are present in
the finished product or can be identified in the
finished product are called direct materials. For eg.
coconuts in case of coconut oil or wood in a wooden
cupboard.
ii. Indirect Materials - Indirect materials are those
materials which do not normally form part of the
finished products or which cannot be directly traced
to the finished product. For eg. stores, oil, grease,
cotton wool etc.
7.2 Labour Cost :
i. Direct Labour - Labour which can be attributed
wholly to a particular product, process or job is called
direct labour. It is the labour utilised in converting
raw materials into finished products. For eg. labour
employed in the crushing department of an oil mill.
ii. Indirect Labour - Labour which cannot be identified
with a particular product, process or job is called
indirect labour. Indirect labour cost is apportioned to
cost units or cost centres. For eg. maintenance
workers.
7.3 Expenses :
i. Direct Expenses - Expenses incurred (except direct
materials and direct labour) specifically for a product,
process or job is known as direct expenses. They are
also called "chargeable expenses". For eg. hiring
charges for a machine specifically hired for a
particular process, excise duty, royalty.
ii. Indirect Expenses - Expenses incurred other than
direct expenses are called indirect expenses. For eg.
factory rent & insurance, power, general repairs.
7.4 Overheads :
Overheads is the sum total of indirect materials, indirect
labour and indirect expenses. Functionally overheads can
be classified as under -
i. Production / Works overheads
ii. Administrative overheads
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iii. Selling overheads
iv. Distribution overheads
8. CLASSIFICATION OF COST
8.1 Classification By Nature :
i. Direct cost - Direct cost is that cost which can be
identified with a cost centre or a cost unit. For e.g.
cost of direct materials, cost of direct labour.
ii. Indirect cost - Cost which cannot be identified with
a particular cost centre or cost unit is called indirect
costs. For e.g. wages paid to indirect labour.
8.2 Classification By Behaviour :
i. Fixed cost - Fixed cost is that cost which remains
constant at all levels of production. For e.g. rent,
insurance.
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ii. Variable cost - The cost which varies with the level
of production is called variable cost i.e., it increases
on increase in production volume and vice-versa. For
e.g. cost of materials, cost of labour.
iii. Semi-variable cost - This cost is partly fixed and
partly variable in relation to the output. For e.g.
telephone bill, electricity bill.
8.3 Classification By Element :
Refer 7 above.
8.4 Classification By Function :
i. Production cost - It is the cost of the entire process
of production. In other words it is nothing but the
cost of manufacture which is incurred upto the stage
of primary packing of the product.
ii. Administrative cost - It is the indirect cost
pertaining to the administrative function which
involves formulation of policies, directing the
organisation and controlling the operations of an
undertaking. This cost is not related to any other
functions like selling and distribution, research and
development etc.
iii. Selling cost - Selling cost represents the indirect
cost which is incurred for
(a) seeking to create and stimulate demand
and
(b) securing orders.
iv. Distribution cost - It is the cost of the sequence of
operations which begins with making the packed
product available for despatch and ends with making
the reconditioned returned empty package, if any
available, for re-use.
v. R&D cost - "Research Cost" and "Development cost"
are two different types of costs.
Research cost is the cost of researching for new
products, methods and applications. Development
cost is the cost of the process which begins with the
implementation of the decision to produce the new
product or apply the new method and ends with the
commencement of formal production of that product
or by that method.
vi. Pre-production cost - It is that part of the
development cost which is incurred for the purpose
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of a trial run, before the commencement of formal
production.
vii. Conversion cost - It is the cost incurred for
converting the raw material into finished product. It
comprises of direct labour cost, direct expenses and
factory overheads.
viii. Prime cost - Prime cost is the aggregate of direct
material cost, direct labour cost and direct expenses.
The term ‘direct’ indicates that the elements of cost
are traceable to a particular unit of output.
8.5 Classification By Controllability : [May'97]
i. Controllable cost - The cost, which can be
influenced by the action of a specified person in an
organisation, is known as controllable cost. In a
business organisation, heads of each responsibility
centre are responsible to control costs. Costs that
they are able to control are called controllable costs
and include material, labour and direct expenses.
ii. Uncontrollable cost - The cost which cannot be
influenced by the action of the person heading the
responsibility centre is called uncontrollable cost. For
e.g. all the allocated costs and the fixed costs.
Note: It may be noted that controllable and
uncontrollable cost concepts are related to the
authority of a person in the organisation. An
expenditure which may be controllable by one
person may not be controllable by another.
Moreover, in the long run, all cost may be
controllable.
8.6 Classification By Normality :
i. Normal cost - It is the cost which is normally
incurred at a given level of output, under the
conditions in which that level of output is normally
attained. Normal cost is charged to the respective
product / process.
ii. Abnormal cost – It is the cost which is not normally
incurred at a given level of output in the conditions in
which that level of output is normally attained.
This cost is charged to the costing profit and loss account
i.e., the product / process does not bear the abnormal cost.
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8.7 Classification By Time when Computed :
i. Sunk cost - Refer 6.17 above
ii. Estimated cost - Refer 6.4 above
9. TYPES / TECHNIQUES OF COSTING
Following are the techniques of costing used in industries
for ascertaining the cost of products / services:
9.1 Historical Costing - It is the ascertainment of costs
after they have been incurred. This costing is based on
recorded data and the cost arrived at are verifiable by past
events. This type of costing has limited utility.
9.2 Uniform Costing - CIMA defines it as " the use by
several undertakings of the same costing system, i.e., the
same basic costing methods, principles and techniques."
9.3 Standard Costing - CIMA defines standard costing as
" a control technique which compares standard costs and
revenues with actual results to obtain variances which are
used to stimulate improved performance."
9.4 Direct Costing - Under direct costing, a unit cost is
assigned only the direct cost, i.e., all the direct costs are
charged to the relevant operations, products or processes.
The indirect costs are charged to the profit and loss
account of the period in which they arise. As a result,
inventory is valued at direct cost only.
9.5 Marginal Costing - Under marginal costing, marginal
cost is ascertained by differentiating between fixed and
variable costs. In this type of costing, variable costs are
charged to cost units and fixed costs of the period are
written off in full against the aggregate contribution.
Marginal costing is of great importance in case of shortterm decision making.
9.6 Absorption Costing - It is the technique of assigning
all costs i.e. both fixed and variable, to the respective
product/service.
9.7 Difference between various Types of Costing
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Note : Please note the following distinctions
a. Marginal Costing V/S Absorption Costing
Marginal cost excludes fixed costs. Under absorption
costing, even fixed costs are charged to the
product/service.
b. Marginal Costing V/S Direct Costing
Under marginal costing only variable cost (both
direct and indirect) is charged to the cost unit while
under direct costing, only direct cost ( both fixed and
variable) is charged to the cost unit.
c. Absorption Costing V/S Direct Costing
Under absorption costing, all costs (both direct and
indirect) are assigned to the cost unit, whereas
under direct costing only direct cost is assigned to
the cost unit. In both types of costing, variability of
cost is ignored.
d. Differential Costing V/S Marginal Costing
[May'94, Nov'97]
Differential Costing Marginal Costing
Scope
Wider than marginal costing. Narrower than differential costing.
Variability
Both fixed and variable costs are
considered.
Only variable costs are
considered.
Definition
Cannot be precisely defined except in terms
of increase or decrease in total costs.
Can be defined as prime cost plus
variable overheads.
Basis of Decision Making
Comparison of differential cost with incremental /
decremental revenue.
Margin of contribution and profit
volume.
Incorporation in Accounting System
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This type of costing does not find a place
in the accounting system as it involves
future course of action. However, it may
be incorporated in the budgets.
Marginal costs may be incorporated in
the accounting system.
Applicability
Applicable to both, long term as well as
short term decision making.
Applicable only to short term decision
making.
10. METHODS OF COSTING & THEIR APPLICABILITY
The method of costing applied by a particular industry
depends upon the nature of the industry.
Following are the various methods of costing which are
commonly followed :
10.1 Job Costing - The objective under this method of
costing is to ascertain the cost of each job order. A job card
is prepared for each job to accumulate costs. The cost of
the jobs is determined by adding all the costs against the
job when it is completed.
This method of costing is used in printing press,
foundaries, motor- workshops, advertising etc.
10.2 Batch Costing - This method of costing is used
where small parts/components of the same kind are
required to be manufactured in large quantities. Here a
batch of similar products is treated as a job and the cost of
such a job is ascertained as mention in (10.1) above
For e.g. in a cycle manufacturing unit, rims are produced in
batches of 1,000 units each, then the cost will be
determined in relation to a batch of 1,000 units.
10.3 Contract Costing - If a job is very big and takes a
long time for its completion, then the method appropriate
for costing is called contract costing. Here the cost of each
contract is ascertained separately.
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It is suitable for firms engaged in erection activities like
construction of bridges, roads, buildings, dams etc.
10 4 Process Costing - This method of costing is used in
those industries where the production comprises of
successive and continuous operations or processes. Here
specific units lose their identity in the manufacturing
operation. Under this method of costing, costs are
accumulated by ‘processes’ for a particular period
regardless of the number of units produced.
This method of costing is followed by chemical industry,
soap industry, rubber industry, paints industry.
10.5 Operating Costing - The method of costing used in
service rendering undertakings is known as operating
costing.
This method of costing is generally made use of by
transport companies, gas and water works departments,
electricity supply companies, canteens, hospitals, theatres,
schools etc.
10.6 Single Output/Unit Costing - This method of
costing is used where a single product is produced. The
total production cost is divided by the total number of units
produced to get the unit/single output cost.
This method of costing is normally used in marble
quarrying, mining, brick-kilns, breweries, etc.
10.7 Multiple Costing - It is a combination of two or
more methods of costing mentioned above. Suppose a firm
manufactures bicycles, including its components, the parts
will be costed by way of batch costing but the cost of
assembling the bicycle will be done by unit costing. This
method is also called composite costing.
Some other industries using this method of costing are
those manufacturing – radios, automobiles, aeroplanes etc.
11.ANALYSIS OF PAST QUESTIONS
11.1 Scanning of Questions Asked in Past
Examinations :
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Nov'92 - Distinguish between : Standard costs and
Estimated costs. (4 marks)
May'93 - Match the following : (1 mark each)
• Total fixed
cost
• What cost should be
• Total variable
cost
• Incurred cost
• Unit variable
cost
• Increases in proportion
to output
• Unit fixed cost • Cost of conversion
• Standard cost • What costs are
expected to be
• Period cost • Decreases with rise in
output
• Actual cost • Remains constant in
total
• Labour and
overhead
• Remains constant per
unit
• Incremental
cost
• Cost not assigned to
products
• Budgeted cost • Added value of a new
product
May'93 - Indicate whether the following statements are
True or False : All costs are controllable.
i. Conversion cost is equal to direct wages
plus factory overhead.
ii. Variable cost per unit varies with the
increase or decrease in the volume of
output.
iii. Depreciation is an out of pocket cost.
iv. An item of cost that is direct for one
business may be indirect for another.
v. Fixed cost per unit remains fixed. (1 mark
each)
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Nov'93 - Outline the steps involved in installing a costing
system in a manufacturing unit. What are the essentials of
an effective costing system? (16 marks)
May'94 - Distinguish between:
Marginal costing and Differential costing
Cost control and Cost reduction (8 marks)
May’95 - Write short notes on : Cost centre. (4 marks)
May’96 - What are the essentials of a good cost
accounting system? (6marks)
May’96 - Narrate the essential factors to be considered
while designing and installing a cost accounting system.
(10 marks)
Nov’96 - A factory manufactures only one product in one
quality and size. The owner of the factory states that he
has a sound system of financial accounting which can
provide him with unit cost information and as such he does
not need a cost accounting system. State your arguments
to convince him the need to introduce a cost accounting
system. (4 marks)
May’97 - What is meant by ‘Cost Centre’ ? (4 marks)
May'97 - Distinguish between the following : Controllable
costs and Uncontrollable costs. (4 marks)
Nov’97 - What is meant by ‘Profit Centre’? (4marks)
Nov’97 - Distinguish between : Differential costing and
marginal costing
May’98 - Name the various reports ( Elaboration not
needed) that may be provided by the Cost Accounting
Department of a big manufacturing company for the use of
its executives. (5 marks)
Nov’98 - Specify the methods of costing and cost units
applicable to the following industries:
i. Toy making
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ii. Cement
iii. Radio
iv. Bicycle
v. Ship building
vi. Hospital. (3 marks)
Nov’99 - Discuss the four different methods of costing
along with their applicability to concerned industry. (4
marks)
Nov’99 - Enumerate the factors which are to be
considered before installing a system of cost accounting in
a manufacturing organisation. (5 marks)
11.2 Frequency Table Showing Distribution of Marks :
Exam Descriptive
Questions
Practical
Questions
Total
Marks
May'95 4 - 4
Nov'95 - - -
May'96 16 - 16
Nov'96 4 - 4
May'97 8 - 8
Nov'97 4 - 4
May'98 5 - 5
Nov'98 3 - 3
May'99 - - -
Nov'99 9 - 9
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Material
Introduction :-
These Chapter deals with Calculation & Control of Material Cost.
Normally Stock of material is valued either at cost price or MKT Price
whichever is lower. Under the Cost Price criteria method like FIFO [First
In First Out], LIFO [Last In First Out], Weighted Average, Simple Average
are used.
The Above Approach are related to calculation & valuation of
material stock. However it is equally important to control the material
cost. For controlling the cost , it is necessary to decide how much
should be purchased, when to purchased, what should be stock level,
How much discount should be demanded from the supplier etc. It is
also necessary to keep check over material turnover. For controlling
the material cost .
[1] ECONOMIC ORDER QUANTITY (EOQ) OR REORDER
QUANTITY (ROQ)
It represent the quantity of material which should be
purchased each time. These quantity is economical from the
angle of the storages & ordering cost.
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Where
A = Annual Consumption of Qty
B = Buying cost OR cost of placing one order.
CS = Cost of storing one unit of material for one year.
If the cost of the Investment is given then such cost also will
be part of CS
Note :- Whenever Discount Factor given in a problem. These
Formula will not be apply for calculating EOQ.
[2] Reorder Period OR Delivery Period OR Lead Time :-
It represent the time gap involves between placement of order
& Actual Receiving of the Delivery. Such Period is again divided into
Maximum Period, Minimum Period, Average Period & Emergency
Period.
[3] Reorder Level (ROL) :-
It represents that level of stock of which fresh quantity of
material should be purchased. The Purchased Quantity will be EOQ.
ROL is calculated as follows :
A]
B]
C]
4] Maximum Stock Level
It represent minimum Qty of stock which should be maintained by
Organisation.
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5] Minimum Stock Level :-
It represent Minimum Qty of stock which should be maintained by
Organisation
6] Average Stock Level :-
It represent on an average how much stock quantity should be
maintained.
1]
2]
7] Danger Level :-
It represent that Level of stock below which production will
stop.
8] Material Inventory Turnover Ratio :-
9] Material Inventory Period :-
It represents the period of one Consumption Cycle.
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LABOUR
INTRODUCTION :-
This Chapter deals with Calculation of wages under Piece rate system
& Time rate system. It is also covers Labour Turnover; it's impact on
profit & additional coverage will be General problem relating to labour
calculation.
PART I
Piece rate system of labour Calculation :-
In this Approach wages are paid according to Quantity
produced by the workers.
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However efficient workers should be given some incentives & therefore
following Approaches will be developed by Orthodox Cost
Accountant..
[1] Taylor Approach :-
Level of Efficiency Remuneration
Less than 100% 83% of Std Piece rate
>=100% 175% of Std Piece rate
Note :- In the Institute Study Material it is given 125% which is
not correct.
[2] Merrick Approach :-
Level of Efficiency Remuneration
Upto 831/3% OR 83.33% Std Piece rate
Above 831/3% OR 83.33% but
Upto 100%
10% above Std Piece rate
Above 100% 20% above Std Piece rate
PART II
Time rate System of Labour Calculation :-
In this Approach Remuneration is Calculated according to
actual time worked by the worker.
Following thinking are available
[1] HALSEY'S 50% PREMIUM APPROACH : -
Std Time :- It means Time allowed OR Std taken for Actual
Production.
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Actual Time :- It means Actual time take for Actual Production OR
Actual Hrs Worked by the Worker.
Difference Between Std time & Actual Time , It represent Time Saved.
1st Part of the Formula Indicates Normal Wages
2nd Part of the Formula Indicates Bonus Amt or Incentives
[2] Rowan Approach :-
PART III
Mixed Approach :-
It is Developed by Gantt Task
This Approach is combination of Time rate system & Piece rate
system.
Level of Efficiency Remuneration
< 100% Actual Hrs Work X Std Rate Per Hour
100% Actual Hrs Work X [ Std Rate Per
Hour + 20%]
> 100%
Actual Qty Produced X High Piece
rate
OR
Actual Hrs Work X Std Rate per Hour
+ 1/3
* High Piece rate is fixed by the management.
Labour Turnover
It represent worker leaving the Job & New worker's Appointed. Labour
Turnover is essential for removal of inefficient worker & appointing of
the new efficient workers. However high rate of turnover will result into
loss of production, loss of sales, loss of profit & other administrative
cost relating to selections, recruitment, training, etc of new workers.
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Following method are available for calculation of labour turnover.
[1] Separation Method :
[2] Replacement Method :
[3] Flux Method:-
It is a Combination of 1st and 2nd
[4] Labour Turnover on the Basis of Hours
OVERHEADS
This chapter deals with detail analysis of Factory overhead, the Basis
coverage is as under :-
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[1] Distribution of Service Department Overheads to Production
Department
[2] Treatment of Over Absorption & Under Absorption of overheads
[3] Calculation of Machine Hour Rate.
Distribution of Service Department Overheads to Production
Department
These Department helping the Production Dept are known as "Service
Department".
For E.g;- Power Generation Dept
Repair & Maintenance Dept
Labour and Welfare Dept
Cost of such Department will be ultimately transfer to Production Dept
. For this Purpose 3 Method are available.
[1] Simultaneous Equation Method
[2] Step and Ladder Method
[3] Repeted Cycle Method OR Continuous Distribution Method
Note : If Nothing is given in problem about method ,then [3]
Method will be Apply.
Treatment of Over Absorption and Under Absorption of Factory
Overheads :
Absorption means Amt of Factory Overheads charge to WIP Account
i.e. Production A/c.
Actual Overheads incurred is Different Amt & overheads charge to
WIP is different Amt. Factory overheads charged to WIP on the basis of
some predefined standard de to this situation of over and under
Absorption arises.
If the amt of absorption is High as compared to amt actually
incurred, it is represent "Over Absorption"
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E.g :
Factory Overheads A/c
Actual Overheads
Incurred 100000Overheads charged to
WIP 120000
Over Absorption 20000
[Bal Fig]
120000 120000
If the amt of absorption is Less as compared to amt actually
incurred, it is represent "Under Absorption"
E.g :
Factory Overheads A/c
Actual Overheads
Incurred 100000
Overheads charged to
WIP 80000
Under Absorption 20000
100000 100000
Overheads Absorption is Calculated as under :
METHO
D I ACTUAL LABOUR HOUR WORK X STD RATE LABOUR HOUR
METHO
D II
ACTUAL UNIT PRODUCED X STD FACTORY OVERHEADS PER
UNIT
METHO
D IIII
ACTUAL WAGES INCURRED X STD % OF OVERHEADS
ABSORPTION
WITH REF TO WAGES
METHO
D IV
ACTUAL MACHINE HOUR WORK X STD RATE OF OVERHEADS
PER MACHINE HOUR
If Standard rate of overheads absorption is not given then
calculate as under :
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[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
* How to deal with Amount of Over or Under Absorbed
Overheads :
APPROACH
I
Amount will be carried forward to Next Year
APPROACH
II
Amount will be transferred to Costing P/LA/c.
APPROACH
III
Nullify the Over and Under Absorption Situation by revising std rate of
absorption.
Revise Std Rate of Absorption
Original Standard Rate [+/-] Supplementary Rate
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In Case of Under Absorption Positive Supplimentary rate will be
adopted & in case of over Absorption Negative supplimentary rate will
be adopted.
Calculation of Machine Hour Rate
Machine Hour Rate represent expenses involved for using a machine
for one Productive Hour.
Expenses of the Machine & Productive Hours of Machine, both should be calculated for
the period operation.
In the Absence of Information Machine set up time will be considered as
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Cost Control [Integrated and Non Integrated Account]
This chapter deals with Accounting Treatment of costing transaction.
Two Approach are available
1] Non Integrated Approach
2] Integrated Approach
Non Integrated Approach :-
It is pure costing approach in which Person A/c & Real A/c's are
ignored. In order to complete Double effects, Artificial Account is
prepare " General ledger Adjustment Account"
In this approach those item are ignored which are not considered in
cost sheet .
We have to deal following account
[1] Stores Ledger Control Account
[2] Wages Control Account
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[3] Factory Overheads Account
[4] WIP Account
[5] Office & Administration Account
[6] Finished Goods Account
[7] Selling and Distribution Account
[8] Cost of Goods Sold Account
[9] Costing Profit and Loss Account
[10] Sales Account
[11]General Ledger Adjustment A/c ( GLA A/c)
Flow of Transaction :-
[1] Total Material Purchased
Direct Material Transferred to WIP A/c
Indirect Material Transferred to Factory overheads A/c
[2] Total Wages
Direct Labour Transferred to WIP (Production) A/c
Indirect Labour Transferred to Factory overheads A/c
[3] For Direct Expenses WIP Account will be directly affected.
[4] Factory Overheads incurred Transferred to WIP Account
[5] WIP Account transferred to Finished Goods Account
[6] Office and Administration Transferred to Finished Goods
[7] Finished Goods Account Transferred to Cost of Sales Account
[8] Selling and Distribution Expense Transferred to Cost of Sales
Account
[9] Cost of Sales Transferred to Costing Profit and Loss Account
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[10] Cash/ Credit Sale done Transferred to Costing Profit and Loss
Account.
[11] Costing Profit and Loss Account Transferred to GLA Account
1 TOTAL MATERIAL PURCHASED
STORES LEDGER CONTROL ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO GENERAL LEDGER ADJUSTMENT ACCOUNT XX
2 MATERIAL ISSUED TO PRODUCTION
WIP ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO STORES LEDGER CONTROL ACCOUNT XX
3
REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE MATERIAL [INDIRECT
MATERIAL]
FACTORY OVERHEADS ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO STORES LEDGER CONTROL ACCOUNT XX
4 TOTAL WAGES INCURRED
WAGES CONTROL ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO GENERAL LEDGER CONTROL ACCOUNT XX
5 DIRECT LABOUR CHARGED TO PRODUCTION
WIP ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO WAGES CONTROL ACCOUNT XX
6 REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCES [INDIRECT LABOUR]
FACTORY OVERHEADS ACCOUNTS ..... Dr XX
TO WAGES CONTROL ACCOUNT XX
7 DIRECT EXPENSES INCURRED
WIP ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO GENERAL LEDGER CONTROL ACCOUNT XX
8 FACTORY OVERHEADS INCURRED
FACTORY OVERHEADS ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO GENERAL LEDGER ADJUSTMENT ACCOUNT XX
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9 SALE OF SCRAPE
GENERAL LEDGER ADJUSTMENT ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO FACTORY OVERHEADS ACCOUNT XX
10 FACTORY OVERHEADS ABSORBED OR RECOVERED OR
APPLIED OR ALLOCATED (TRANSFERRED)
WIP ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO FACTORY OVERHEADS ACCOUNT XX
11 FINISHED GOODS PRODUCED
FINISHED GOODS ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO WIP ACCOUNT XX
12 OFFICE AND ADMINISTRATION OVERHEADS INCURRED
OFFICE OVERHEADS ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO GENERAL LEDGER ADJUSTMENT ACCOUNT XX
13 OFFICE OVERHEADS ABSORBED OR APPLIED OR
ALLOCATED OR RECOVERED
FINISHED GOODS ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO OFFICE OVERHEADS ACCOUNT XX
14 COST OF FINISHED GOODS SOLD
COST OF SALES ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO FINISHED GOODS ACCOUNT XX
15 SELLING AND DISTRIBUTION OVERHEADS INCURRED
COST OF SALES ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO SELLING AND DISTRIBUTION OVERHEADS ACCOUNT XX
16 CASH AND CREDIT SALE DONE
GENERAL LEDGER ADJUSTMENT ACCOUNT XX
TO SALES ACCOUNT XX
17 SALES TRANSFER TO COSTING PROFIT AND LOSS
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ACCOUNT
SALES ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO COSTING PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT XX
18 COST OF SALES TRANSFERRED TO COSTING PROFIT AND
LOSS ACCOUNT
COSTING PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO COST OF SALES XX
19 PROFIT TRANSFERRED TO GENERAL LEDGER ACCOUNT
GENERAL LEDGER ADJUSTMENT ACCOUNT ..... Dr XX
TO COSTING PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT XX
Integrated Approach :-
It is a mixed Approach, which is combination of costing Approach and
Financial Accounting Approach. It has 2 features
(1) Personal and Real Account will be considered. Therefore GLA
Account will not be taken place. First 10 Account prepared as usual ,
followed by other Personal and Real Accounts.
(2) Non Costing Transaction will also be considered E.g Interest,
discount, Dividend , Income Tax Etc.
The Flow of Transaction will be Considered here also.
JOB COSTING AND BATCH COSTING
JOB COSTING
When continuous production is not carried out but production
depends on specific order received from customer, then in such case
technique of Job costing is adopted for cost & profit calculation. Each
order represent separate Job and we have to prepare Job cost sheet.
The technique of Job costing is applied for preparation of Tender or
Quotation.
In Absence of Information following points should be considered
for preparing Job cost sheet.
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[1] First a fall prepare cost sheet of running business or transaction
took place in previous period.
[2] Calculate per unit cost of direct material, Direct labour, Direct
Expenses and Selling & Distribution Overheads. Any Increase or
Decrease will be adjusted to such per unit cost. The Revise per unit
cost will be multiplied by Quantity of the Job order and we will get
respective cost per job cost sheet.
[3] Calculate % of Factory overheads to Direct labour, using Data of
previous period transactions.
[4] Apply this % on Direct Labour of Job cost sheet & we will get
Factory overheads for Job cost sheet.
[5] Normally in Job Cost Sheet there will be no opening and closing
WIP & Finished Goods. Even sale of scrape will not be taken place.
[6] Calculate % of office overheads to Works Cost using data of
previous period. Apply this % to works cost of job cost sheet, & we will
get office overheads for job cost sheet.
[7] Calculate % of Profit to cost of sale using data of previous period.
Apply this % to cost of sale of Job Cost sheet & we will get the profit for
job cost sheet.
BATCH COSTING:-
When Item produced is small in size identically nature , large scale
production is carried out & cost per unit is quite lower, then the
techniques of Batch Costing is utilised for calculation of cost.
We have to prepare cost sheet for particular Batch size. The Overall
amount of fixed cost will not change according to Batch size but per
unit fixed cost will be change according to Batch size.
If Semi variable expenses take place then it will be divided into
Variable cost and Fixed cost.
This Techniques is utilised of manufacturing items like Pencils, Pins,
Clips and Other small stationary Items, small Electrical Items, Etc.
OPERATING COSTING
Introduction
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These Chapter deals with Calculation of Cost for Service Orientated
Organisation.
E.g:- Hospitals, Theaters, Transportation Services, Educational
Institution, Etc.
We have to Calculate Cost & Quantity for Period of Operation.
At the time of calculation cost Proper classification should be
adopted in respect of variable cost, Fixed cost & Semi variable cost.
Variable Cost include those expenses which fully change according
to the level of activity or level of Quantity.
Fixed Cost are those Cost which change according to time Factor &
doesn't have any relation with the quantity involves.
Normally Expenses like Rent, Depreciation, Interest, Etc are time
based expenses or fixed expenses. Whenever we come across semivariable expenses we have to divided into parts i.e Variable Cost and
Fixed Cost. Normally Maintenance cost is semi variable cost.
Process Costing
Introduction
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Process Account
Qty Rate Amt Qty Rate Amt
To Direct
Material xx xx xx
By Sale of
Scrape xx xx xx
To Indirect
Material xx xx xx
By Sale of
Wastage
xx xx xx
To Direct
Labour
xx xx xx By Normal Loss xx xx xx
To Indirect
Labour
xx xx xx
By Sale of
Output xx xx xx
To Direct Exp xx xx xx
By Loss on sale
of Output xx xx xx
To Indirect Exp xx xx xx
By Output
transferred to
Next Process
xx xx xx
To Abnormal
Gain xx xx xx
To Profit on
sale of Output xx xx xx
xx xx xx xx xx xx
whenever it is possible to divide production procedure into
separate function, then cost is calculated for each function
separately by preparing Process Account. Process account will
include all cost upto fact level.
Following are the Important Terms :-
1] Normal Loss :-
It represent Expected Loss of Output quantity which
cannot be controlled. Such Quantity is estimated on the basis
of Previous Experience. If Such Loss doesnot have sale value
then it reflect as normal loss.
2] Expected Output = Input Quantity - Normal Loss
3]
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4] Abnormal Loss :-
When actual Output obtained is lower as compare
Expected output, then such loss of output is known as
Abnormal Loss. Abnormal Loss take place due to Negligence.
Abnormal Loss Account Dr...... xx
To Process Account xx
5] Abnormal Gain
When Actual output obtained is higher as compare to
Expected Output, then such Extra output obtained is
considered as Abnormal Gain.
Process Account Dr.... xx
To Abnormal Gain Account xx
Note :- Effect of Abnormal Loss or Gain will be given only when
actual output is given in the question.
INTER PROCESS PROFIT PROBLEM
When output of one process is transferred is transferred to
another process by charging profit then it is Inter Process Profit
Problem. In the Process account we have to give 3 column i.e Cost,
Profit & Total. Total column is actual , All figure given in the problem are
at total level, all calculation should be done with reference to amount
of total column.
Output of 1st process will be transferred to second process by
charging profit. Same procedure will be followed in subsequent process
also. The opening & closing stock of 1st process will not have element
of profit. However opening and closing stock subsequent process &
finished goods will have profit element. We have to create stock
reserves account for element pf profit in such stock. The stock reserves
treatment will be covered in Costing P/L A/c.
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The value of closing stock will be deducted from debit side instead
of writing on credit side. The amount of profit will appear in Profit
column & total column but never in cost column.
EQUIVALENT PRODUCTION
Introduction
In the Process Problem WIP is involved, then Equivalent Production
Treatment will be apply. The cost of the process will be allocated
between completed output and Incompleted Output depending on the
level of completion derived in the current period.
Equivalent Production for the 1st Process using FIFO order:-
The opening WIP will be completed 1st & then fresh input will be
completed , due to this Closing is available out of fresh Input.
Following steps will be followed as working Note.
STEP I :- Prepare Process Account with Qty Data
STEP II :- Division of output quantity (using FIFO)
STEP III :- Statement of Equivalent Production
(QTY)
Particulars Material Labour Fact.
Overheads
Opening WIP completed in current
period (Apply Balance %) xx xx xx
Output from current Input (Always
100%) xx xx xx
Closing WIP completed in current
period (Apply % Given) xx xx xx
Abnormal Loss (If scrape
completion % is given then apply
that % otherwise 100%)
xx xx xx
(-) Abnormal Gain (always 100%) xx xx xx
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Equivalent Quantity xx xx xx
Step IV Statement pf Equivalent Cost
Material Labour Factory
Overheads
Rs. Rs. Rs.
Cost incurred in Current Period xx xx xx
(-) Sale of Scrape xx xx xx
Net Cost xx xx xx
/
Equivalent Qty xx xx xx
Equivalent C.P.U x x x
Step V :- Valuation Procedure
Part I Value of completed Output
(A) Value of opening WIP completed
Opening Cost B/d (given in the Problem) xx
(+) Current cost xx
[Equivalent Qty X Equivalent C.P.U]
xx
(+) Value of Output From Current Input
[Equivalent Qty X Total Equivalent C.P.U] xx
xx
Part II Value of closing WIP
Equivalent Qty X Equivalent CPU
Part III Value of Abnormal Loss
Equivalent Qty X Equivalent CPU
Part Iv Value of Abnormal Gain
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Equivalent Qty X Equivalent CPU
After these working prepare Process Account which must
tally.
CHAPTER 17
COST AUDIT & COST ACCOUNTING RECORD RULES
Student's Tip - This is another simple chapter and gives
an introduction to cost audit and cost accounting record
rules. The students should prepare this chapter from
theoretical point of view.
SYNOPSIS :
1. Cost Audit
1.1 Meaning of Cost Audit
1.2 Objectives of Cost Audit
1.3 Other Aspects of Cost Audit
1.4 Types of Cost Audit
1.5 Circumstances Under Which a Cost Audit is Ordered
1.6 Cost Audit Programme
1.7 Advantages of Cost Audit
1.8 Principal Functions of Cost Auditor.
2. Cost Accounting Record Rules
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Accounting Records to be Maintained
2.3 Industries Covered
3. Analysis of Past Questions
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3.1 Scanning of Questions Asked in Past Examinations
3.2 Frequency Table Showing Distribution of Marks
1. COST AUDIT
[May'92]
1.1 Meaning of Cost Audit :
The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants
of England defines Cost Audit as follows - "the
verification of cost records and accounts and a
check on adherence to the cost accounting
procedures and their continuing relevance".
Thus, cost audit involves the following :
i. Examination of correctness of cost accounts :
This involves verification of the cost
accounting system, the methods and
techniques of costing; the accuracy of the cost
accounts and the reports generated.
ii. Ensuring that the Cost Accounting Plan has
been adhered to : This involves checking
whether the objectives/policies laid down by
the management are in accordance with the
Cost Accounting Plan.
1.2 Objectives of Cost Audit : [Nov'99]
The objectives of cost audit can be summarised as
follows -
i. Protective Objectives
a) To examine whether proper cost accounting
records as per the provisions of the Companies Act
have been maintained.
b) To check whether the records maintained as
above give a true and fair view of the cost of
production.
c) To verify the cost data and the reports generated
therefrom.
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d) To reduce wastage of materials and labour.
e) To maintain internal check and internal control in
the various areas of operation.
(ii) Constructive Objectives
a. To make available accurate and timely
information to the management.
b. To generate useful information for the
Government so as enable it to fix prices, to
give concessions to industries etc.
c. To help the management in the decision
making process.
d. To reduce cost of production by making
maximum utilisation of resources and to
increase the level of efficiency by choosing the
most beneficial method of operation.
e. To enable fixation of prices.
f. To promote cost-consciousness.
1.3 Other Aspects of Cost Audit : [Nov'97]
Apart from the aspects discussed above, cost audit
also covers the following :
(i) Efficiency Audit :
Efficiency audit involves measurement of the
efficiency of the performance of a company.
Efficiency audit means comparison of actual
performance with the set target, ascertaining the
variances, investigating the reasons for the
variances and instituting remedial action for the
same.
Thus, the main purpose of efficiency audit is to
ensure that -
a. There is most optimum utilisation of resources
b. The resources are channelised in the most
profitable lines.
(ii) Propriety Audit :
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It means the audit of executive actions and plans
bearing on the finances and expenditure of the
company.
The cost auditor has to check the following aspects
while conducting a propriety audit –
a. Whether the existing procedures aid the
management in decision making
b. Whether the planned expenditure would give
optimum results
c. Whether the return on investment could be
improved by some other alternative plan of
action
Thus, a propriety audit aims at supporting a
reasonably high standard of financial prudence, so
as to look after the interests of the shareholders.
Annexure to the Cost Audit (Report) Rules
specifically provide for the cost auditor’s comments
on "cases where the company’s funds have been
used in a negligent or inefficient manner".
1.4 Types of Cost Audit :
(i) Statutory Cost Audit :
Following are the features of statutory cost audit –
a. Section 233B of the Companies Act,
1956,empowers the Government to bring any
industry under the purview of cost audit.
b. A statutory cost audit is not an annual feature
like the statutory financial audit. It is to be
conducted only when an order for the same is
made by the Government.
c. Normally, a statutory cost audit is ordered for
a particular industry and not for a particular
company. Thus, if a company manufactures say
, three products, only one product may be
covered under statutory cost audit.
d. Section 209(1)(d) of the Companies Act, 1956,
prescribes the cost records to be maintained
for the purpose of cost audit.
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e. The cost auditor is appointed by the Board of
Directors of a company with the previous
approval of the Central Government. A cost
accountant or a chartered accountant may be
appointed as a cost auditor. However an
auditor appointed under Section 224 of the
Companies Act, 1956, cannot be appointed as
the cost auditor of the same company. Powers
and duties of the cost auditor with respect to
access to books of accounts and records and
obtaining information and explanations from
the officers of the company are the same as
under Section 227(i) if the Companies Act,
1956.
f. The company should make available to the cost
auditor, within 90 days from the end of the
financial year, all the cost accounting records
as would be required for conducting the cost
audit.
g. The cost auditor is required to submit his
report in triplicate to the Central Government
within 120 days from the end of the financial
year of the company. A copy of the report
should be sent to the company also. The report
should be in the form laid down in the Cost
Audit (Report) Rules, 1968 and the subsequent
amendments to the same.
h. The company should furnish to the Central
Government, within 30 days of the receipt of
the cost audit report, all information and
explanations on every reservation and
qualification contained in the report. The
Central Government is empowered to call for
further information/explanations, if required
and may take the requisite action on the
report.
(ii) Cost Audit on behalf of the Management :
The management establishes a costing system so as
to facilitate intelligent decision-making. The
correctness of the decisions depends upon the
reliability of the costing system and the accuracy of
the cost data generated based on which such
decisions are based.
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A cost audit enables the management to –
a. Establish the reliability of the cost accounting
system
b. Establish the accuracy of the cost data
generated
c. Verify whether the objectives for installing the
cost accounting system are being met
d. Ascertain whether the existing targets fixed
can be upgraded or whether the existing cost
accounting system can be improved.
(iii) Cost Audit on behalf of the Customer :
In the case of a "cost-plus contract" the contractee
(or the customer), may insist on a cost audit so as to
ascertain the correctness of the "cost". Normally,
the contract stipulates this facility for the
contractee.
(iv) Cost Audit on behalf of the Government :
Such an audit is conducted under the following
circumstances :
a. When the Government wants to fix a fair price
for essential commodities
b. When the Government is approached for
concessions, subsidy, protection to a particular
industry / company.
c. When the Government wants to fix duties on
certain products.
(v) Cost Audit on behalf of the Trade Association :
When a company becomes a member of a trade
association, it may have to fulfill certain
requirements of the trade association, one of which
may be cost audit.
Such an audit helps the trade association to
ascertain the reliability of the data submitted by the
member company. It also facilitates the following -
a. The trade association may negotiate with the
Government for subsidies, concessions etc.
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b. Cost audit may be useful in settling trade
disputes on account of demand for higher
wages, bonus etc.
c. In case of major cost variations within the
industry, the respective company’s costs can
be verified.
1.5 Circumstances Under Which a Cost Audit is
Ordered:
With reference to "Types of Cost Audit" in 1.4 above,
following are the circumstances under which a cost
audit is ordered -
i. When a company or a product incurs
continuous losses.
ii. In case of cost-plus contracts
iii. For price fixation
iv. In case of major cost variations within the
different units of the industry
v. In case of granting subsidy by the Government
vi. In case of fixation of levies and duties on
products by the Government
vii. For settling trade disputes on account of
higher wages, bonus etc.
viii. When a trade union wants to negotiate with
the Government for certain benefits.
1.6 Cost Audit Programme :
Meaning of Cost Audit Programme
A Cost Audit Programme is a plan of operations to
be carried out while conducting a cost audit. It is a
sequential arrangement of the activities to be
carried out during a cost audit.
Contents of Cost Audit Programme
The contents of the Cost Audit Programme depends
upon the following factors –
a. Whether the audit is partial or complete ? i.e.,
whether the audit pertains only to a few
aspects of the cost accounting system or it
covers the entire system.
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b. Whether the audit is continuous or periodical ?
However, the Cost Audit Programme covers the
following areas –
(i) General
Following are the general points to be considered
during the preparation of the Cost Audit Programme
a. The cost auditor should obtain a list of the
different officers in key position in the
organization.
b. He should become familiar with the existing
system of cost accounting in the organization
and ensure that the cost accounting rules are
followed correctly. He should check whether
the existing system can be improved and
upgraded.
c. He should see whether the systems of
standard costing and budgetary control are in
operation and if so, then whether they are
adequate or they need to be improved.
d. He should see if an effective system of internal
control is in existence.
e. He should be aware of the characteristics of
the industry of which the organisation under
audit, is a part.
f. He should note the key factors relating to the
industry.
g. He should familiarize himself with the
production process, the different production
and service departments, the materials used,
the labour employed etc.
(iii) Audit Note Book
The Audit Note Book is systematic written record of
the –
a. Procedure adopted for conducting the cost
audit
b. Notes pertaining thereto
c. Queries made and replies received
d. Correspondence made
e. Any other points pertaining to the audit
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This book is useful while preparing the audit report.
(iv) Audit Procedures
This involves the various methodologies undertaken
during the audit. These are as under –
a. Questionnaires
b. Vouching
c. Test checking
d. Checking and ticking
(v) Audit Report
The Cost Audit Report has to be filed with the
Government within 120 days of the end of the
financial year for which the cost audit is conducted.
To meet this requirement, he should prepare a
detailed cost audit plan covering all the aspects to
be reported.
(vi) Advantages of Cost Audit Programme
Following are the advantages of a cost audit
programme -
(i) Work is done systematically.
(ii) Work is ready within the time limits.
(iii) Review of work done is easily possible.
(iv) No area of work is left unattended.
(v) There is documentary evidence of work done.
1.7 Advantages of Cost Audit : [May'99]
Following are the advantages of cost audit –
To The Management
i. Cost audit helps in detection of errors and
frauds.
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ii. The management gets accurate and reliable
data based on which they can make day-to-day
decisions like price fixation.
iii. It helps in cost control and cost reduction.
iv. It facilitates the system of standard costing
and budgetary control.
v. It helps the management in inter-unit / firm
comparison.
vi. It enables the management to identify loss
making propositions.
vii. It helps the management to identify the
inefficiencies and institute remedial action
against the same.
viii. It helps the management to improve upon the
existing cost accounting system.
ix. It keeps a check on crucial areas like valuation
of finished goods, work-in-progress.
To The Government
i. Cost audit ensures efficient functioning of the
industry. This in turn, nurtures a healthy
competition among the different companies
and paves a path for fast progress.
ii. It helps in identification of sick units and
enables the Government to make relevant
decisions.
iii. It helps in fixing prices in the case of essential
commodities and checking undue profiteering.
iv. It enables to take decisions as to granting of
subsidies, incentives and protection to various
industries.
v. It helps to take decisions as to levies, duties
and taxes.
vi. It facilitates the determination of cost claims
submitted to the Government under cost-plus
contracts.
To the Society
i. Cost audit enables the Government to fix
prices of essential commodities. This
safeguards the interests of the society.
ii. Cost audit enables the Government to keep a
check on undue profiteering by the
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manufacturers and avoids artificial price rise
due to monopolistic tendencies.
To the Shareholders [Nov'97]
i. Cost audit reveals whether any of the products
of the company are making losses. Thus
though the company making an overall profit,
a loss making line may eating up the
company’s profits. This is brought to the notice
of the shareholders and the management is
forced to take remedial measures, thereby
making optimum utilisation of resources.
ii. Cost audit ensures that the shareholders get a
fair return on their investments.
1.8 Principal Functions of Cost Auditor :
The Institute of Cost and Works Accountants has laid
down the following principal functions of a cost
auditor :
(i) Capacity Utilisation
The cost auditor has to ensure that -
a. There is optimum utilisation of installed
capacity, i.e., the machine hours utilised have
resulted in optimum level of production.
b. The idle capacity has been kept to the
minimum.
c. The bottlenecks in the optimum utilisation of
capacity are identified and relevant remedial
action is taken.
(ii) Procedure For Issue of Stores
The cost auditor has to ensure that –
a. There is proper authorisation (Material
Requisition Note) for issue of materials from
the stores.
b. There is no chance of loss or pilferage of
material lying on the shop floor.
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c. Any excess material is promptly returned to
the store vide a Material Return Note and
credit is given to the relevant cost unit.
d. Any scrap arising on account of utilisation of
material is duly returned to the stores and
credit is given to the relevant cost unit.
e. There is adequate documentation for the
movement of materials, thus establishing an
audit trail.
(iii) Labour
The cost auditor has to ensure that –
a. There is optimum utilisation of labour.
b. There is a proper system of recording time.
c. Standard time for each job / process is
scientifically ascertained and actual
performance is compared with it to establish
variances.These variances are in turn,
scrutinized and analysed so as to minimize
them in future.
d. The standard time set for each job / process is
constantly reviewed for upgradation, thereby
increasing the efficiency of labour.
e. There is a proper method of remuneration in
practice. Such a method should include an
element of incentives so as to increase the
productivity.
f. Idle time is restricted to the minimum.
g. Unnecessary overtime is avoided.
h. There is a scientific method of allocating
labour cost to various jobs / processes.
(iv) Overheads and Indirect Expenditure [Nov'95]
The cost auditor has to see that -
a. Classification of overheads into those of
production, administration, selling and
distribution is done correctly.
b. Bases for absorption of overheads is
scientifically ascertained and applied.
c. Allocation of overheads is done correctly.
d. Overheads budget is prepared. Actual
overheads incurred are periodically reviewed
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and variances are computed. Reasons for
variances are ascertained and corrective action
is taken.
e. Unabsorbed overheads are treated correctly in
cost accounts.
f. Compared to the value of production, the
overheads loaded are not excessive.
g. Allocation of overheads between finished and
unfinished goods is done in accordance with
correct principles.
(v) Inventory
The cost auditor has to ensure that -
a. The level of inventory is commensurate with
the quantum of production.
b. The orders are based on the concept of
Economic Order Quantity (E.O.Q.).
c. The lead time for each category of inventory is
correctly worked out.
d. The carrying costs and handling costs are duly
considered and correctly computed.
e. There is constant review of inventory levels
and efforts are made to reduce the inventory
costs.
f. There is a check of the book inventory (i.e.
inventory as per Ledger) with the physical
inventory. Discrepancies, if any, should be
investigated into and remedial action should
be taken promptly.
g. There is no room for loss or pilferage of
inventory.
h. There are no bottlenecks in the process of
receipts and issues of inventory.
i. There is proper authorisation and
documentation for the movement of inventory.
j. The entire handling of inventory is in
accordance with the cost accounting plan.
(vi) Opening and Closing Stocks
The cost auditor has to ensure that -
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a. The level of stock is commensurate with the
volume of production and that there are no
bottlenecks in the handling of stocks.
b. The physical verification of stocks is duly
carried out.
c. There is proper authorization and
documentation for the movement of stocks.
d. Aging of stocks is done. Non-moving / obsolete
or slow-moving stock is identified and treated
accordingly in the accounts.
e. Valuation of stocks is done correctly and as per
recognized policy.
f. There is adequate storage security and there
are no chances for misappropriation of stock.
g. Quantum of non-moving stores is not abnormal
as compared to the annual consumption rate.
(vii) Work - in - Progress [Nov'96]
The cost auditor has to see the following –
a. The stock of work-in-progress is physically
verified and that there is no discrepancy
between book stock and physical stock.
b. The valuation is correctly done with reference
to the stage of completion.
c. The stage of completion is correctly
determined and applied.
d. There is no over / under valuation of work-inprogress.
e. The quantum of work-in-progress is
commensurate with the volume of production.
2. COST ACCOUNTING RECORD RULES
[May'99]
2.1 Introduction :
Before the imposition of statutory cost audit, the
Government of India had issued Cost Accounting
Record Rules under Section 209 (1)(d) of the
Companies Act, 1956 in respect various products /
industries. According to the rules, all the companies
involved in production / manufacturing activity, for
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which certain cost accounting records have been
prescribed, should maintain such records relating to
utilization of materials, labour and other items of
cost. The purpose of such a provision is that at any
given point of time, product-wise cost of production
and cost of sales can be easily ascertained. The cost
accounting records prescribed as above have to be
maintained in a specific format and their
preparation has to be completed within the
stipulated time limit. These rules are preliminary to
statutory cost audit.
2.2 Accounting Records to be Maintained :
According to the Cost Accounting Record Rules,
accounting records pertaining to the following need
to be maintained for different industries –
(i) Raw materials
(ii) Labour
(iii) Overheads
(iv) Research and Development expenses
(v) Conversion Cost
(vi) Packing Cost
(vii) Interest
(viii) By-products and joint-products
(ix) Captive consumption
(x) Utilities and services
(xi) Capital expenditure
(xi) Work-in-progress
(xii) Cost of Production and Cost of Sales
(xiii) Reconciliation of Cost Accounts with
Financial Accounts
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(xiv) Computation of Variances
(xv) Physical verification
(xvi) Statistical data
2.3 Industries Covered :
The list of industries for which Cost Accounting
Record Rules have been issued are as under :
(i) Cement
(ii) Cycles
i. Rubber Tyres and Tubes
ii. Caustic Soda
iii. Room Air-conditioners
iv. Refrigerators
v. Automobile Batteries
vi. Electric Lamps
vii. Electric Fans
viii. Electric Motors
ix. Motor Vehicles
x. Tractors
xi. Aluminium
xii. Vanaspati
xiii. Bulk Drugs
xiv. Sugar
xv. Infant Milk Food
xvi. Industrial Alcohol
xvii. Jute Goods
xviii. i Paper
xix. Rayon
xx. Dyes
xxi. Soda Ash
xxii. Nylon
xxiii. i Polyester
xxiv. v Cotton Textiles
xxv. Dry Battery Cell
xxvi. i Sulphuric Acid
xxvii. ii Steel, Tubes and Pipes
xxviii. iii Engineering Industries (Diesel Engine,
Internal Combustion Engine, Power Driven
Pumps)
xxix. Electric Cables and Conductors
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xxx. Bearings
xxxi. i Milk Food
xxxii. ii Chemical Industries
xxxiii. iii Formulations
xxxiv. iv Cosmetics and Toiletries
3. ANALYSIS OF PAST QUESTIONS
3.1 Scanning of Questions Asked in Past
Examinations :
May'92 - Write explanatory note on : Cost Audit (8
marks)
Nov'95 - As a cost auditor what will you verify on the
area of "overheads and indirect expenditure" (3
marks)
Nov'96 - What, as a cost auditor, will you verify in
the area of work-in-progress ? (4 marks)
Nov'97 - What are the important aspects of cost
audit ? How is it useful to the shareholders of a
company ? (6 marks)
May'99 - How is cost audit useful to management,
society, shareholders and government ? (4 marks)
May'99 - Write a brief note on Cost Accounting
Record Rules (3 marks)
Nov'99 - Discuss the purpose of Cost Audit ? (3
marks)
3.2 Frequency Table Showing Distribution of Marks :
Exam Descriptive Questions Practical
Questions
Total Marks
May'95 - - -
Nov'95 3 - 3
May'96 - - -
Nov'96 4 - 4
May'97 - - -
Nov'97 6 - 6
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May'98 - - -
Nov'98 - - -
May'99 7 - 7
Nov'99 3 - 3
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Reconciliation of Costing and
Finance
Introduction :-
In this Topic we reconcile or match costing Profit with Finance Profit.
Costing Profit is calculated in Costing Department in the factory.
Finance Profit is calculated in account department in head office. For
any company for one accounting year, Profit figure must be same but
in Actual Life this figure are never same. There is always difference
between this profits. A Statement is Prepared regularly explaining the
reason for differences. Such statement is known as statement of
Reconciliation. Following are reasons for Difference :-
[1] Recording Of Expenses :-
In cost books expenses are record as estimate. In finance
books expenses are recorded as actual . Estimate never equal to
Actual.
[2] Method of Stock Valuation :-
In Cost Books stock is valued at cost of Production . In
Finance books stock is valued at cost or Mkt Price which is less. As a
method of stock valuation is different stock figure are different.
[3] Method Of Depreciation :-
In Cost records , Depreciation depends upon use of assets.
In Finance books Dep depends upon SLM or RBM Method. As Method of
Dep are Different and hence the profit is Different.
[4] There is a certain item which appear only in finance
books or only in cost books. As a result figure are diferent and
hence the Profit is different.
STATEMENT OF RECONCILIATION
Profit as Per xx
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Cost Books
Add:- 1) xx
2) xx
3) xx xx
xx
Less :- 1) xx
2) xx
3) xx xx
Profit as Per
finance Books
xx
Rules for Reconciliation Statement :-
[1] Exp are More , Profit is Less , Now You Add
[2] Exp are Less , Profit is More , Now You Less
[3] Income are Less, Profit is Less, Now You Add
[4] Income are More, Profit is More, Now You Less
Hint :- Opening Stock - Exp
Closing Stock - Income www.allonlinefree.com
COST SHEET
Every Business wants to earn maximum profits. For this Purpose, he
has two options
[1] Increase in Selling Price
[2] Decrease the Cost
Rise in selling Price is not possible as there exists competition in the
Mkt. Hence efforts are made to reduce the cost . The focus is on the
future transaction of the company.
Cost Sheet :-
Cost Sheet is a statement in which all expenses are grouped under
suitable heads for there analysis, Control, and Reduction. Aim is to earn
maximum profit
Cost Sheet for the Year
Particulars Amt Amt CPU
Raw Material / Direct Material :-
Opening Stock xx
Purchases xx
Carriage Inward/ Fright xx
xx
(-) Sale of Material xx
Raw Material lost / destroyed xx
Purchase Return xx
Raw Material Consumed xx
Royalty xx
Production Wages xx
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Factory wages xx
Direct Expenses xx
Chargeable Exp xx
Special tools xx
PRIME COST xx
Add :- Production / Factory / Works
Overheads
Factory Rent and Taxes xx
Power Electricity xx
Repairs and Maintenance xx
Manufacturing Exp xx
xx
(-) Scrape Sale xx xx
(+) Opening Stock of WIP xx
xx
(-) Closing Stock of WIP xx
FACTORY COST / WORKS COST xx
Add :- Office Overheads
Printing and Stationary xx
Miscellaneous / General Exp xx
Managing Directors Salary xx xx
COST OF PRODUCTION xx
STATEMENT OF PROFIT / LOSS
Opening stock of finished Goods xx
(+) Cost of Production xx
(+) Purchases of Finished Goods xx
xx
(-) Closing Stock of Finished Goods xx
COST OF GOODS SOLD xx
Add :- Selling and Distribution of
Goods
Advertisement xx
Salesman Salary xx
Cash Discount xx
Bad Debts xx
Showroom Exp xx xx
TOTAL COST / COST OF SALE xx
Profit / Loss xx /
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(xx)
NET SALE xx
Note :-
[1] Interest paid on loan Dividend Paid , Bank charges Etc are
Financial Exp not considered in Cost Sheet.
[2] In the absence of any instruction Cash Discount and Bad Debts
are taken as selling Exp. Alternatively if they are taken as Finance Exp,
they will not taken in Cost Sheet.
[3] Purchase of Fixed Assets is a Capital Expenditure never taken in
Cost Sheet.
CHAPTER 16
UNIFORM COSTING & INTER-FIRM COMPARISON
Student's Tip - This chapter is only of theoretical
importance. However, students should study this chapter
well for the following two reasons; one, that the chapter is
very simple to understand and; two, that nearly every
examination covers this chapter.
SYNOPSIS :
1. Uniform Costing
1.1 Meaning of Uniform Costing
1.2 Applications of Uniform Costing
1.3 Objectives of Uniform Costing
1.4 Pre-requisites for installation of Uniform Costing System
1.5 Essentials of a good Uniform Costing System
1.6 Uniform Cost Manual
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1.7 Advantages of Uniform Costing
1.8 Limitations of Uniform Costing
2.Inter-firm Comparison
2.1 Meaning of Inter-firm Comparison
2.2 Procedure for Inter-firm Comparison
2.3 Pre-requisites for Inter-firm Comparison
2.4 Advantages of Inter-firm Comparison
2.5 Limitations of Inter-firm Comparison
3. Analysis of Past Questions
3.1 Scanning of Questions Asked in Past Examinations
3.2 Frequency Table Showing Distribution of Marks
1.UNIFORM COSTING
[May'92,May'96
]
1.1 Meaning of Uniform Costing :
Uniform Costing is not a specific method of costing. It is
only a system where several undertakings use a common
set of costing principles, practices and procedures. The
main objective of uniform costing is that the different
undertakings in an industry should adopt a common
method of costing and apply uniformly, the same principles
and techniques so as to facilitate better cost comparison
and cost control.
CIMA defines uniform costing as "the use by several
undertakings of the same costing system, i.e., the same
basic costing methods, principles and techniques."
1.2 Applications of Uniform Costing :
The need for application of uniform costing arises in the
following circumstances :
i. When a single undertaking has a number of
factories located at different locations and
produces similar products or performs similar
operations - Though the products manufactured /
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processes performed are identical, the cost of
products / processes is bound to vary due to
difference in location. Unless uniform costing is
applied, it will be very difficult to compare the costs
of products / processes at different factories.
ii. When a number of undertakings are members
of a trade association -
Members of the association are required to maintain
uniform costing records. This ensures that cost data
submitted by members is comparable and
consistent. It also enables the trade association to fix
common prices for the whole industry and measure
the operating efficiency of the members.
1.3 Objectives of Uniform Costing :
The main objectives of uniform costing are summarised as
follows :
i. To generate reliable cost data for inter-unit or
inter-firm cost comparison.
ii. To improve the operational efficiency of
individual units by comparing the efficiency of units
with each other / overall performance of the industry.
iii. To facilitate control on fixed costs.
iv. To provide relevant cost data to the Government for
fixing and regulating the prices of the products.
v. To eliminate unhealthy competition among the
different units.
vi. To bring about standardisation in the operations of
different units.
vii. To reveal lines of individual products which have
been discovered to be unprofitable.
1.4 Pre-requisites for installation of Uniform Costing
System : [May'97]
For successful application of uniform costing system, the
following conditions must be satisfied :
i. The firms in the industry should be willing to share
and exchange the relevant and correct information.
ii. The participating firms should function with a spirit
of mutual co-operation and trust.
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iii. The participating firms should not function with a
sense of rivalry and jealousy or nurture unhealthy
competition.
iv. Uniformity with respect to the following points must
be established before installing a uniform costing
system :
[May'98]
a. Size of participating firms
b. Method of production employed
c. Accounting methods, principles and procedures
1.5 Essentials of a good Uniform Costing System :
A good uniform costing system essentially covers the
following :
i. Method of costing to be used e.g. process costing,
contract costing etc.
ii. Techniques of costing to be used e.g. marginal
costing, standard costing
iii. Unit of cost to be used e.g. tonnes, kilograms etc.
iv. Production centres, cost centres, profit centres
to be used
v. System of classification and codification of cost
accounts
vi. Definitions of various elements of cost e.g. direct
material, direct labour, chargeable expenses,
overheads (factory, administration, selling and
distribution )
vii. Definition of costs to be categorised as fixed,
variable and semi-variable and the method to be
used in seggregation of semi-variable costs
viii. Classification of production and service
departments
ix. Method of apportionment of service department
cost
x. Base to be used in applying overheads to
production units e.g. as a percentage of prime
cost/direct wages or on machine hour rate basis
xi. Treatment of over/under-absorbed overheads
xii. Definition and treatment of defectives, scrap,
spoilages and waste
xiii. Method of pricing material issues e.g. LIFO, FIFO
etc.
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xiv. Treatment of handling and storage costs of
materials
xv. Method of payment of remuneration e.g. timerate, piece-rate etc.
xvi. Method of valuation of work-in-progress and
finished goods
xvii. Method for pricing of joint products and byproducts
xviii. Treatment of controversial items like interest on
own capital, rent on owned premises
xix. Method, presentation and frequency of
data/reports to the management
xx. Any other foreseeable requirement which may
arise
1.6 Uniform Cost Manual : [Nov'94]
Uniform Cost Manual is a written document, which may
be in the form of a book or a bulletin, containing the
principles, methods and procedures for the ascertainment
and control of cost in uniform costing. It is necessary for
the successful operation of uniform costing system. Such a
manual provides guidelines to the participating firms to
organise their cost accounting system on a uniform basis.
Following are the salient features of a uniform cost
manual :
i. It includes objectives, scope and advantages of the
system
ii. It contains the definitions of various terms ,
codification and classification of accounts and the
general principles of cost accounting
iii. It lays down the parameters for inter-firm/inter-unit
comparison
iv. It specifies the reporting pattern ( method,
presentation and frequency) to the management
1.7 Advantages of Uniform Costing : [Nov'95,
Nov'98]
i. A ready-made system of cost accounting can be
installed without experimenting. This brings about
savings in cost, time and efforts.
ii. Uniform costing facilitates inter-firm and interunit comparison.
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iii. It makes possible standardisation of costing
principles and practices.
iv. It nurtures healthy competition among the
participating firms.
v. Thus, operating efficiency of the firms improves
resulting in an overall increase in the efficiency of the
industry.
vi. It enables the participating firms to receive the
services of experts jointly, thereby minimizing the
cost to each firm.
vii. It helps in fixing selling prices and eventually
improvement in customer relations as it can be
established that prices are based on reliable
information which is representative of the costs of
the industry.
viii. It facilitates negotiations between the trade
association and the Government in respect of
granting concessions or subsidies and fixing duties or
taxes.
ix. It enables the Government to regulate prices of
essential commodities.
x. It facilitates introduction of uniform wage structure in
the industry, thereby reducing labour turnover.
xi. Small firms which cannot afford to spend on research
and development can reap the benefits of such
research from the bigger firms. Technological
improvements can be shared.
1.8 Limitations of Uniform Costing : [Nov'96, Nov'98,
Nov'99]
i. Sometimes the participating firms are so diverse in
nature that application of a uniform costing system
may be very difficult.
ii. Small firms may not be very keen on installing such a
system as it may be expensive for them.
iii. There is no secrecy maintained and competitors do
not want to share information with each other.
iv. Uniform costing acts as disincentive for the more
efficient firms as the benefits of their efficiency are
passed on to other member firms.
v. Such a system promotes monopolistic tendency,
whereby prices may be increased artificially.
2. INTER-FIRM COMPARISON [May'96]
2.1 Meaning of Inter-firm Comparison : [May'95,
Nov'97]
.Inter-firm comparison consists of voluntary
exchange of information pertaining to the various
aspects of the participating firms (like costs,
productivity, profitability etc.) among the firms
engaged in a similar business, so as to increase the
efficiency of the firms concerned and the overall
efficiency of the industry.
Inter-firm comparison is a technique of evaluating the
performances, efficiencies, costs and profits of a firm with
those of other firms in the industry. The process of
evaluation is carried out by a neutral body, like a trade
association. It enables the participating firm to compare its
performance with that of the most efficient firm.
Inter-firm comparison follows the principle of "comparing
like to like" and this is possible only a uniform costing
system in use. Thus, uniform costing system is a prerequisite to inter-firm comparison.
2.2 Procedure for Inter-firm Comparison:
The following procedure is adopted for inter-firm
comparison :
i. Information is collected from the participating
firms by a central body like a trade association.
ii. The information so collected is analysed and
presented in such a manner that the secrecy of the
information supplied by the partcipating firms is
maintained.
iii. Only relevant information is provided to a
participating firm so that, that firm can use the
information to improve it's efficiency.
2.3 Pre-requisites for Inter-firm Comparison :
[May'95, Nov'97]
i. Uniform costing system - As discussed earlier, a
good uniform costing system is a pre-requisite to
inter-firm comparison. For developing such a system, active co-operation is required from all the
participating firms.
ii. Central Body for inter-firm comparison - The
responsibility of collecting, analysing and
disseminating information from the participating
firms needs to be entrusted to a neutral body. In
India, this responsibility is entrusted to trade
associations, manufacturing associations, Chamber
of Commerce and Industry and National Productivity
Council. Besides collecting and supplying
information, such an entity also undertakes research
and development activities for the common benefit
of all the firms. It also conducts various training
programmes for its member firms.
iii. Varied membership - For a purposeful and
successful inter-firm comparison, it is essential that
firms of different sizes become members of the
Central Body.
iv. Nature and extent of information to be collected -
Though there is no limit to collecting information, the
extent of information required to be collected
depends upon the demand for such information,
comparative value of the information and the
efficiency of the central body. Collection of mass data
or irrelevant data should be avoided as otherwise it
will give rise to confusion and additional cost to the
member firms. Though there is no standard list of
information to be collected, normally, the following
data is procured by the central body from it's
member firms :
a. Information pertaining to costs and cost structures
b. Raw material consumption
c. Labour efficiency and utilisation
d. Machine efficiency and utilisation
e. Method of production
f. Inventory control
g. Technical aspects
h. Return on capital employed
i. Return on net worth
j. Reserves and appropriation of profits
k. Liquidity position
l. Debtors and Creditors etc.
v) Method of collection and presentation of
information - The methodology for collection and dissemination of information should be clearly laid down.
Normally, the central body collects the information at fixed
intervals, like quarterly, half-yearly or annually. This
information is collected via specific forms or
questionnaires. The information to be supplied by the
member firms is normally in ratios. Absolute figures are not
collected so as to safeguard the secrecy of the data
supplied by the member firms. Such information collected
is analysed and presented in the form of a report. This
report is made available only to member firms.
2.4 Advantages of Inter-firm Comparison :
i. The standing of each member in the industry is
ascertained. The weaknesses and the reasons for the
same are highlighted. This facilitates the
management to take remedial action and improve
the efficiency of their firm.
ii. By ranking the members, an atmosphere of healthy
competition is created, whereby each member tries
to better it's competitor's achievement.
iii. Healthy competition in turn benefits the consumers.
iv. Inter-firm comparison promotes cost-consciousness
among the members of the industry.
v. It helps the Government in price regulation.
vi. It enables the Government to grant
protection/concession to the industry, if necessary.
vii. Since the evaluation of the participating firms is done
by a neutral body, the report generated is unbiased.
2.5 Limitations of Inter-firm Comparison : [May'97]
i. The information may not be forthcoming from the
members due to lack of organisational secrecy.
ii. Even the data submitted by the members may not
be fully accurate due to the above-mentioned
reason.
iii. In absence of a uniform costing system, inter-firm
comparison is meaningless.
iv. Non-availability of a suitable basis of comparison
poses a problem for the introduction of a system of
inter-firm comparison.
v. Members heading the ranking list may become
complacent. 3. ANALYSIS OF PAST QUESTIONS
3.1 Scanning of Questions Asked in Past
Examinations :
May'92 - Write explanatory note on : Uniform costing (8
marks)
Nov'94 - Write short note on : Uniform cost manual (4
marks)
May'95 - Explain the meaning of 'Inter-firm Comparison'.
Describe the requisites to be considered while installing a
system of inter-firm comparison by an industry (16 marks)
Nov'95 - A firm of printers is contemplating joining the
uniform costing system being operated by it's Trade
Association but the Managing Director is doubtful about the
advantages of becoming involved in the scheme.
Prepare a report to the Managing Director describing the
advantages the firm is likely to gain. (7 marks)
May'96 - Write short notes on : Uniform costing, Inter-firm
comparison (6 marks)
Nov'96 - State the limitations of uniform costing (4 marks)
May'97 - What are the requisites for installation of a
uniform costing system ? (6 marks)
May'97 - Write four limitations of inter-firm comparison (4
marks)
Nov'97 - What is meant by 'Inter-firm comparison' ?
Describe the requisites to be considered while installing a
system of inter-firm comparison (8 marks)
May'98 - Write short note on : Points on which uniformity
is essential before introducing uniform costing ( 4 marks)
Nov'98 - Explain in brief advantages and limitations of
uniform costing (4 marks) Nov'99 - Explain in brief the limitations of uniform costing
(2 marks)
3.2 Frequency Table Showing Distribution of Marks :
Exam Descriptive Questions Practical Questions Total Marks
May'95 16 - 16
Nov'95 7 - 7
May'96 6 - 6
Nov'96 4 - 4
May'97 10 - 10
Nov'97 8 - 8
May'98 4 - 4
Nov'98 4 - 4
May'99 - - -
Nov'99 2 - 2
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