Organisational problems in respect of the implementation of activity-based costing in South Africa

• Published in: Meditari accountancy research 2000-04, Vol.8 (1), p.215
• Main Authors: Wessels, S, Shotter, M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Accounting procedures; Activity based costing; Comparative analysis; Costs; Initiatives; Management accounting; Multidisciplinary teams; Organizational behavior; Studies; Success
• ISSN: 2049-372X; 2049-3738
• DOI: 10.1108/10222529200000011

In this study the extent and nature of organisational problems that are encountered in South Africa in respect of the implementation of activity-based costing are examined and compared with difficulties experienced by companies in the British Isles, US and Australia. The investigation comprised a literature survey as well as an empirical study of the companies listed in South Africa. Contrary to the findings of overseas studies, South African companies experience less difficulty in respect of support from senior management and considered the employee resources allocated to the ABC projects to be adequate and satisfactory. ABC objectives are aligned with organisational goals, culture and company strategy. However, whilst implementers are adequately trained, the insufficient training of users and managers is perceived to be a hindrance to success and in the majority of companies other priorities take precedence to the ABC project. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]