Becton Labs, Inc., produces various chemical compounds for industrial use. One compound, called Fludex, is prepared using an elaborate distilling process. The company has developed standard costs for one unit of Fludex, as follows:

Standard Quantity

or HoursStandard Price

or RateStandard CostDirect materials2.5ounces$20.00per ounce$50.00Direct labor1.4hours$22.50per hour31.50Variable manufacturing overhead1.4hours$3.50per hour4.90Total standard cost per unit$86.40

During November, the following activity was recorded related to the production of Fludex:

1. Materials purchased, 12,000 ounces at a cost of $225,000.
2. There was no beginning inventory of materials; however, at the end of the month, 2,500 ounces of material remained in ending inventory.
3. The company employs 35 lab technicians to work on the production of Fludex. During November, they each worked an average of 160 hours at an average pay rate of $22 per hour.
4. Variable manufacturing overhead is assigned to Fludex on the basis of direct labor-hours. Variable manufacturing overhead costs during November totaled $18,200.
5. During November, the company produced 3,750 units of Fludex.

Required:

1. For direct materials:

a. Compute the price and quantity variances.

b. The materials were purchased from a new supplier who is anxious to enter into a long-term purchase contract. Would you recommend that the company sign the contract?

2. For direct labor:

a. Compute the rate and efficiency variances.

b. In the past, the 35 technicians employed in the production of Fludex consisted of 20 senior technicians and 15 assistants. During November, the company experimented with fewer senior technicians and more assistants in order to reduce labor costs. Would you recommend that the new labor mix be continued?

3. Compute the variable overhead rate and efficiency variances.