Case 8-32 (45 minutes)
1. The budgetary control system has several important shortcomings that
reduce its effectiveness and may cause it to interfere with good
performance. Some of the shortcomings are explained below.
a.
Lack of Coordinated Goals.
Emory had been led to believe high-
quality output is the goal; it now appears low cost is the goal.
Employees do not know what the goals are and thus cannot make
decisions that further the goals.
c.
The Short-Run Perspectives.
Monthly evaluations and budget
tightening on a monthly basis results in a very short-run perspective.
This results in inappropriate decisions (i.e., inspect forklift trucks
rather than repair inoperative equipment, fail to report supplies
usage).
2. The improvements in the budgetary control system should correct the
deficiencies described above. The system should:
a. more clearly define the company’s objectives.
b. develop an accounting reporting system that better matches
(Unofficial CMA Solution, adapted)