The cost accounting information system must reflect the division of authority so that
individual managers can be held accountable. The system should be designed to promote the concept of management by exception. That is, it should provide management
with information that facilitates prompt identification of activities that require attention.
Although the accounting records will not provide all the necessary information for effective management, the accountant who designs the system must know how employees are
paid, how inventories are controlled, how equipment is costed, machine capacities, and
other operating information.