306-313 Management Control Systems

306-107 Accounting Reports and Analysis.

This subject is designed for those with a general interest in managerial issues rather than a technical accounting focus. The subject focuses on the roles of managerial accounting information in the design of management control systems. More specifically, the subject explores the nature of control systems; the relative role of accounting vis a vis other management controls; and the interaction between accounting and other controls, budgets and accounting performance measures as critical influences on managerial decision making and behaviour; and the implications of contextual influences on control system design, such as strategy and organisational environment. Case studies are used throughout the subject as a means of studying accounting in its organisational context.

• High level of development: oral communication; written communication; problem solving; application of theory to practice; interpretation and analysis; critical thinking; synthesis of data and other information; evaluation of data and other information; receptiveness to alternative ideas.

• Moderate level of development: collaborative learning; team work; accessing data and other information from a range of sources.

• Some level of development: use of computer software.

A 2-hour end-of-semester examination (50%), assignments totalling not more than 3000 words (40%) and seminar preparation and participation (10)%).