kustannusmäärityksen

Kustannusmääritys refers to the process of determining the cost of producing a good or service. This involves identifying and allocating all direct and indirect costs associated with a particular product, project, or activity. Direct costs are those that can be directly traced to a specific cost object, such as raw materials or direct labor. Indirect costs, also known as overhead, are expenses that cannot be directly traced, such as rent, utilities, and administrative salaries.

The purpose of cost determination is multifaceted. It is crucial for pricing decisions, enabling businesses to set prices that cover costs and generate a profit. It also plays a vital role in budgeting and financial planning, allowing organizations to forecast expenses and allocate resources effectively. Furthermore, cost determination aids in performance evaluation, helping to identify areas where costs can be reduced or efficiency improved. It is also essential for inventory valuation and for making informed make-or-buy decisions.

Various methods exist for cost determination, depending on the nature of the business and the specific objectives. Common approaches include absorption costing, where all manufacturing costs, both direct and indirect, are included in the cost of the product, and variable costing, which only includes variable manufacturing costs. Activity-based costing (ABC) is another method that allocates overhead costs based on the activities that drive those costs, providing a more accurate picture of product profitability. The choice of method significantly impacts financial reporting and internal decision-making.