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:

During November, the company produced 4,100 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 25 technicians employed in the production of Fludex consisted of 5 senior technicians and 20 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.

Standard Quantity or Hours 2.20 ounces 0.50 hours 0.50 hours Direct materials Direct labor Variable manufacturing overhead Total standard cost per unit Standard Price or Rate $25.00 per ounce $15.00 per hour $ 3.00 per hour Standard Cost $ 55.00 7.50 1.50 $ 64.00 Standard Quantity or Hours 2.20 ounces 0.50 hours 0.50 hours Direct materials Direct labor Variable manufacturing overhead Total standard cost per unit Standard Price or Rate $25.00 per ounce $15.00 per hour $ 3.00 per hour Standard Cost $ 55.00 7.50 1.50 $ 64.00