Date of Award
4-1985
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Business
First Advisor
Jack Kirk
Second Advisor
Jan Kniffen
Third Advisor
Robert J. Banis
Abstract
The thesis, Case Study of Installing a Research Project Cost Accounting System by Marjorie Rolfsmeyer, explores the development and implementation of a computerized cost accounting system for research and development (R&D) projects within the Health Care Division of a major corporation. The author identifies the unique challenges of research cost accounting, which differs from traditional manufacturing cost systems due to its unpredictable nature and project-specific expenditures.
The study outlines the purpose of a project cost accounting system, emphasizing its role in budgeting, financial tracking, and managerial decision-making. It discusses how cost control mechanisms, including detailed expense reporting, job numbering, and time allocation reports, help improve financial oversight. The research also compares existing cost accounting systems within the company, weighing the benefits and limitations of adopting similar approaches.
A practical solution is proposed using an IBM personal computer with the Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet program to track expenses, categorize costs, and compare actual expenditures against budgets. The study concludes that a tailored project cost accounting system enhances financial transparency, improves decision-making, and sets the foundation for scaling operations as the R&D division grows. The findings highlight the necessity of accurate cost tracking in research environments to support both corporate financial goals and scientific innovation.
Recommended Citation
Rolfsmeyer, Marjorie, "Case Study of Installing a Research Project Cost Accounting System" (1985). Theses. 1294.
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/theses/1294
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
