Problem 12-55 (Static) Cost Allocations: Comparison of Dual and Single Rates (LO 12-6)

Manning Systems is a commercial software vendor that sells billing and other financial software to companies around the globe. Manning operates a centralized call center for customer support calls. Costs associated with use of the center are charged to the division with primary responsibility for the client. There are four geographical divisions: North America (NA), Central and South America (SA), Europe, and Asia-Pacific (APAC). The allocation is based on the length of time of calls made (Minutes). Idle time of the reservation agents and the fixed cost of the equipment are allocated based on the number of calls received (Calls) from clients in each division. Due to recent increased competition in the commercial software business, Manning has decided that it is necessary to better allocate its costs in order to price its services competitively and profitably. During the most recent period for which data are available, the use of the call center for each division was as follows:

Division	Minutes (Thousands)	Calls (Thousands)
Asia-Pacific	240	180
Central and South America	480	144
Europe	960	432
North America	720	1,044

During this period, the cost of the call center amounted to $2,520,000 for personnel and $1,950,000 for equipment and other costs.

Required:

a-1. Determine the allocation to each of the divisions using a single rate based on time used (minutes).

a-2. Determine the allocation to each of the divisions using the dual rates based on time used (for personnel costs) and number of calls (for equipment and other costs).