Advantages of Classification of Overheads into Fixed and Variable
The primary objective of segregating semi-variable expenses into fixed and variable is to ascertain marginal costs. Besides this, it has the following advantages also.
(a) Controlling Expenses : The classification of expenses into fixed and variable components helps in controlling expenses. Fixed costs are generally policy costs, which cannot be easily reduced. They are incurred irrespective of the output and hence are more or less non controllable. Variable expenses vary with the volume of activity and the responsibility for incurring such expenditure is determined in relation to the output. The management can control these costs by giving proper allowances in accordance with the output achieved.
(b) Preparation of Budget Estimates : The segregation of overheads into fixed and variable part helps in the preparation of flexible budget. It enables a firm to estimate costs at different levels of activity and make comparison with the actual expenses incurred.
(c) Decision Making : The segregation of semi variable cost between fixed and variable overhead also helps the management to take many important decisions. For example, decisions regarding the price to be charged during depression or recession or for export market. Likewise, decisions on make or buy, shut down or continue, etc., are also taken after separating fixed costs from variable costs.
In fact, when any change is contemplated, say, increase or decrease in production, change in the process of manufacture or distribution, it is necessary to know the total effect on cost (or revenue) and that would be impossible without a correct segregation of fixed and variable costs. The technique of marginal costing, cost volume profit relationship and break-even analysis are all based on such segregation.
(a) Controlling Expenses : The classification of expenses into fixed and variable components helps in controlling expenses. Fixed costs are generally policy costs, which cannot be easily reduced. They are incurred irrespective of the output and hence are more or less non controllable. Variable expenses vary with the volume of activity and the responsibility for incurring such expenditure is determined in relation to the output. The management can control these costs by giving proper allowances in accordance with the output achieved.
(b) Preparation of Budget Estimates : The segregation of overheads into fixed and variable part helps in the preparation of flexible budget. It enables a firm to estimate costs at different levels of activity and make comparison with the actual expenses incurred.
(c) Decision Making : The segregation of semi variable cost between fixed and variable overhead also helps the management to take many important decisions. For example, decisions regarding the price to be charged during depression or recession or for export market. Likewise, decisions on make or buy, shut down or continue, etc., are also taken after separating fixed costs from variable costs.
In fact, when any change is contemplated, say, increase or decrease in production, change in the process of manufacture or distribution, it is necessary to know the total effect on cost (or revenue) and that would be impossible without a correct segregation of fixed and variable costs. The technique of marginal costing, cost volume profit relationship and break-even analysis are all based on such segregation.
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