Management Accounting Master Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Management Accounting Master - Assignment Example The attached report is a proposal to introduce innovations in our management accounting techniques specifically with regard to Activity Based Budgeting related to Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT). The present techniques in place do not seem to be reflecting the changed industry dynamics and priorities. (Lucey, 1993) As discussed at the recent conference we are expecting to develop new products in the engineering cranes and automated fork lift equipment in the 'Premium' segment. These products are expected to be very popular with the automobile industries because of their versatility. Strong business contacts with both the above segment and a referral network are expected to help gain a rapid entry into the market. ABC plans to offer the automobile industries high quality engineering equipment at prices which are competitive relative to other premium quality suppliers in the market. The management of the company believes that the inclusion of precision controls within our products will better serve the needs of the automobile industry. (Garrison, 2003) Conventionally management accountants used forms of variance analysis in arriving at costs. Variance analysis compares the budgeted versus the actual costs of raw material during a manufacturing cycle. Variance can be calculated for both costs and revenue. When costs are allotted to material or labor a standard rate is the benchmark used to compare variances. The standard rate of material versus the actual material cost in the market determines the efficiency of a purchase or labor mechanism. The accepted product costing used volume based measures such as labor hours or labor dollar to allocate indirect costs. Traditional roles allocated to management accountants typically include:- Facilitating the preparation of financial reports Being a part of the strategy forming team Planning optimal resource use Planning and controlling business activity The management accountant is viewed as someone who oversees cost control through a strict regulation of unit prices and labor. (Hansen, 1997) In this context it should be stated that Cash is regarded as an asset that has the ability to generate opportunity cost. This because cash is the most liquid form of asset and these is available on a ready basis. Cash in hand, cash at bank are the most liquid form in terms of currency and checking. These can be enumerated as the instrument of short term