Key research themes
1. How can Activity-Based Costing (ABC) improve cost management and efficiency in healthcare institutions?
This research theme investigates the application and benefits of Activity-Based Costing systems in healthcare settings, particularly public hospitals. Understanding and allocating costs accurately per patient or service is critical for hospital management to control expenses, improve financial sustainability, and enhance operational efficiency under funding constraints. ABC offers a more precise cost allocation method than traditional uniform cost distribution, facilitating better cost control and decision-making in healthcare.
2. What are the impacts of budgeting approaches on employee motivation and decision making in various industries?
This theme focuses on how different budgeting styles and capital budgeting practices influence employee motivation and strategic investment decisions. Understanding the link between budgeting styles (participative vs. imposed) and workforce motivation helps optimize organizational performance. Additionally, capital budgeting practices vary across industries and firm sizes, affecting capital allocation efficiency in SMEs and large firms.
3. How can modern cost accounting frameworks and IT-enabled expense management systems enhance cost measurement, control, and operational transparency across sectors?
This theme examines the development and application of accounting methods and digital systems for accurate cost measurement and efficient expense management. It includes the evolution of cost accounting concepts, the integration of eco-efficient accounting methods like Material Flow Cost Accounting in healthcare, and advances in web-based expense management and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to improve transparency and managerial decision-making.