Asimplified version of the accounting entries recording the same information in a format
that reflects the effects on the fundamental accounting equation (with a “+” denoting an
increase and a “−” denoting a decrease) is shown in Figure 2-A-1. A summary of results is
shown in Figure 2-A-2.
It should be noted that the profit for a period serves to increase the value of the owners’
equity in the firm by that amount. Also, it is significant that the net cash flow from operation
of $700(= $2,200 − $1,200 − $300) is not the same as profit. This amount was recognized
in transaction 4(c), in which capital consumption (depreciation) for equipment of $500 was
declared. Depreciation serves to convert part of an asset into an expense, which is then
reflected in a firm’s profits, as seen in Equation (2-A-2). Thus, the profit was $900, or $200
more than the net cash flow. For our purposes, revenue is recognized when it is earned, and
expenses are recognized when they are incurred.
One important and potentially misleading indicator of after-the-fact financial performance that can be obtained from Figure 2-A-2 is “annual rate of return.” If the invested
capital is taken to be the owners’ (equity) investment, the annual rate of return at the end of
this particular year is $900/$3,900 = 23%.
Financial statements are usually most meaningful if figures are shown for two or more
years (or other reporting periods such as quarters or months) or for two or more individuals
or firms. Such comparative figures can be used to reflect trends or financial indications
that are useful in enabling investors and management to determine the effectiveness of
investments after they have been made.
2.A.2 Cost Accounting
Cost accounting, or management accounting, is a phase of accounting that is of particular
importance in engineering economic analysis because it is concerned principally with