Assume that all direct materials are added at the beginning of the manufacturing process. If 72,100 units are completed and transferred in respect to direct materials, however, the process is 90% complete in respect to conversion costs, calculate the number of equivalent units in respect to direct materials. Select one: a. 64,890 b. 72,100

You work as the sales manager for a company that sells office supplies to businesses of all sizes. because the profit margins are razor-thin, you need to ensure that you are getting the very best prices on paper, pencils, pens, post-it notes, and other office supplies from the manufacturers. when reviewing the quarterly profit statement, you realize that your costs are higher than they should be, and you trace the higher costs back to an employee who has been lax about getting competitive bids to ensure the lowest prices. when you conduct your research to determine the reason for the higher costs, and take action to bring those costs back down, in which of the key management processes are you taking part?