Overview

This module considers the use of financial data in setting the strategic aims of the organisation, assessing business performance and considers the methods available to the management accountant for developing effective management in any specific situation.

The use of financial data in assessing business performance; Using this data to set the strategic aims of the organisation; The methods available to the management accountant for developing effective management in any specific situation; Cost classification, allocation and the use of various analytical models; Discussion of the issues of variance analysis; Study of ABC principles, the strengths and weaknesses, and its place in current management thinking.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -C (50-59%) -Work demonstrating an adequate attempt at acquiring and applying knowledge.Content1.Partial identification of the issues2.Adequate understanding and use of appropriate conceptual frameworks, experience and facts; some errors3.Some evidence of consulting source material4.No originality5.Insufficient relevanceStructure1.Links parts together, but lacks a coherent structure2.Clear, but limited, objectives3.Does not always reach a conclusion4.Weakened by inappropriate or inaccurate use of language

-good -B (60-69%) Work demonstrating high level of analytical and applied competence on a broad range of factors. Free of major errors.Content1.Clear identification of the issues2.High standard of critical analysis using appropriate conceptual frameworks and/or applying relevant experience and facts3.Good evaluation and synthesis of source material4.Shows some fresh thinking and originality5.Substantially relevantStructure1.Clearly structured and logically developed2.Clear, relevant and attainable objectives3.Relevant conclusions4.Supported by an appropriate range and use of language

-excellent -A (70%>) Work of excellent quality in every respect. Focused and comprehensive, with critical depth and insight. Representing a model answer at the top end of the range.Content1.Concise and comprehensive identification of the issues2.Excellent standard of critical analysis using appropriate conceptual frameworks and/or applying relevant experience and facts3.Comprehensive and excellent use, evaluation and synthesis of source material4.Shows fresh thinking and originality5.Wholly relevantStructure1.Well structured and logically developed2.Exceptionally clear, relevant and attainable objectives3.Clearly spelled out and relevant conclusions4.Supported by a good range and appropriate use of language

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate an analytical understanding of cost classification, cost assignment, and the ability to apply linear and non-linear models to pricing and analysis.

• Demonstrate an understanding of an organisations performance evaluation

• Demonstrate an understanding of modern management accounting techniques such as Activity Based Costing (ABC)

• Develope a rigorous appreciation of the concepts and principles of variance analysis, and the understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the methods used.