Instructions: Identify 5 problem areas presented in the case below... and discuss a managerial accounting topic that could apply to each from the following situation (one per problem area = 5 total)! Be specific in identifying the issue based on the case details provided, then propose a solution/technique that could be implemented based on managerial tools/techniques from the course; finally, explain how this tool should provide improvement to fit the need expressed in the case details. Please answer in complete sentences. Good luck!

You have just graduated with your degree in accounting and are planning on sitting for the CMA (Certified Managerial Accountant) examination. Managerial accounting was your favorite course of study in accounting, and you cant wait to show the world what youve learned! You have begun the interview process with several manufacturing companies. The larger companies look at you as just another graduate. You have an interview with a smaller manufacturer who is very impressed with you! Since the salary is the best youve been offered, youre just as eager to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. Your potential boss begins to tell you a little about his dilemma.

I started this business with an idea and a prayer. For so long, I could do just fine operating out of my hip pocket. Then things really started happening fast. Demand for our products increased, we built new manufacturing facilities, and hired more people than I could keep up with. I think we are profitable, but I never know until the end of the year when financial statements are prepared. I want to make sure the company can keep up with its growth, but I dont know what to do. Thats why Im interested in hiring a managerial accountant. Before I do, I need to know that whomever I hire has some ideas as to how to help my company. I would appreciate it if you would prepare a short memo highlighting the areas that you think could use some attention. Once I have that, I can make my decision about hiring you. I think you would be an asset (!) to our business, but I want to be sure Im doing the right thing, not just hiring another worker for the office!

Let me tell you a little about our company. We have three manufacturing facilities in the United States, producing This and That, but Im not sure what the product cost is of each. We are in the process of considering production of The Other, which may involve construction of another manufacturing facility. We employ 250 people, including office staff and managers. The overhead is a big chunk of money each year, and I dont know what it goes for! I pay everyone what theyre worth, and try to give raises when I think I can. Its really hard to know who is doing a good job since weve grown so big. We usually handle things on a day-to-day basis, trying to resolve major problems as we go. Sometimes that means coming up short on cash to pay bills or product to meet demand. Im sure there has to be a better way. Do you think you can help us?

You leave the interview confident that you will be the best person for this job! Your mind is racing with all of the things you learned in accounting! With pen in hand, you begin expressing your thoughts and suggestions...