What is a key function of cost accounting?

The key function of cost accounting is to collect, analyze, and report costs. This involves systematically tracking costs associated with the production of goods and services. By doing so, organizations can identify where expenses are incurred, analyze cost behavior, and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of operations. This information is crucial for management decision-making, as it enables managers to understand the cost structure of their products or services, set pricing strategies, and identify areas for cost reduction.

Cost accounting serves as a vital tool for budgeting and forecasting, allowing businesses to compare actual performance against expected performance. This function also aids in inventory valuation and can impact financial statements, even though its primary purpose is oriented towards internal management rather than external reporting.

While other options may relate to business functions—such as sales strategies, financial audits, and human resource management—they do not pertain directly to the critical role of cost accounting in providing detailed financial insights regarding costs.