A cost driver is any factor that has the effect of changing the amount of total cost. For
a firm that competes on the basis of cost leadership, management of the key cost drivers is
essential. For example, to achieve its low-cost leadership in manufacturing, P&G carefully
watches the design and manufacturing factors that drive the costs of its products. It makes
design improvements when necessary, and the manufacturing plants are designed and automated
for the highest efficiency in using materials, labor, and equipment. For firms that are
not cost leaders, the management of cost drivers may not be so critical, but attention to the key
cost drivers contributes directly to the firm’s success. For example, because an important cost
driver for retailers is loss and damage to merchandise, most retailers establish careful procedures
for handling, displaying, and storing their merchandise.