Cost control is the achievement of pre- determined targets of costs. Cost reduction is the achievement of the real and permanent reduction in costs. • Cost control tends to assume a static state of affairs and that standard once set are not challenged. Cost reduction assumes the existence of concealed potential saving in the standards or pre- determined costs set for cost control and that these standards are always subject to challenge. • Cost control is concerned with predetermining costs, comparing it with actual costs, analysing the variances and taking corrective measures. Cost reduction is not concerned with maintenance of performance according to predetermined targets. it is rather concerned with finding out new product design, methods,etc • Cost control is a part of cost accounting function Cost reduction may be achieved even when no cost accounting system is in operation • Cost control lacks dynamic approach to cost improvement Cost reduction is more dynamic approach to cost improvement 7