Labor Cost Visualization at Carescript: An Introductory Data Analytics Case for Management Accounting

Abstract

ABSTRACT This case introduces students to data visualization by requiring them to analyze labor cost data for a fictional pharmacy. The case enhances students’ understanding of cost behavior by illustrating that an organization’s cost structure can evolve, which highlights the importance of using relevant data. This case is written for students without exposure to data analytics, but it includes suggestions for advanced data analysis. The case can be used in any course that discusses the cost equation. The case can be covered in one class and is adaptable to both online and in-person instruction. Instructors can customize their teaching of the case to further coverage of data analysis techniques or changes to a business’s cost structure. The case includes instructions for generating a new dataset each semester.