Chapter 1 Compensation Cost and Systems
Chapter 1 Compensation Cost and Systems
Chapter 1 Compensation Cost and Systems
SE – HRM – 03
211 HRM - Compensation & Reward Management
CONCEPT OF COMPENSATION
Compensation refers to the total amount of financial and non-financial rewards given to
employees in return for their work. It is a crucial aspect of employment and organizational
management, encompassing various forms of remuneration and benefits. Here’s a breakdown
of its meaning and definition:
Definition
Compensation is the combination of salary, wages, bonuses, benefits, and other incentives
provided to employees in exchange for their work and contributions to an organization.
2. Retaining Employees
3. Motivating Performance
4. Ensuring Fairness
Equity: Fair and transparent compensation practices help ensure that employees are
paid equitably based on their roles, responsibilities, and performance, reducing
feelings of injustice or favouritism.
Legal Compliance: Adhering to compensation regulations helps avoid legal issues
and ensures compliance with labour laws and standards.
Financial Security: Regular salaries and benefits provide financial stability, enabling
employees to meet their living expenses and personal needs.
Health and Welfare: Benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid
time off contribute to employees' overall well-being and job satisfaction.
Strategic Alignment: Compensation plans that are aligned with business objectives
and performance metrics support the achievement of organizational goals and
strategic priorities.
Long-Term Success: By motivating and retaining top talent, effective compensation
contributes to the long-term success and growth of the organization.
Professional Growth: Some compensation packages include funding for training and
development, supporting employees' career advancement and skill enhancement.
Career Progression: Clear compensation structures related to promotions and career
progression help employees understand the pathways for advancement within the
organization.
1. Fixed Pay: Regular, predictable compensation such as base salary or hourly wages.
2. Variable Pay: Performance-based compensation that varies based on individual or
company performance, such as bonuses and commissions.
3. Total Rewards: A comprehensive approach that includes all aspects of compensation
and benefits, emphasizing the overall value offered to employees rather than just
salary.
Definition: Cost refers to the value of resources used to produce goods or services or to
undertake any economic activity. It represents the expenditure incurred to achieve a particular
objective or outcome.
Types of Costs:
1. Fixed Costs:
o Costs that remain constant regardless of the level of production or sales, such
as rent, salaries, and insurance.
2. Variable Costs:
o Costs that fluctuate with the level of production or sales, such as raw
materials, production supplies, and utility costs.
3. Total Costs:
o The sum of fixed and variable costs incurred in the production of goods or
services.
4. Marginal Cost:
o The additional cost incurred from producing one more unit of a product or
service.
5. Opportunity Cost:
o The cost of forgoing the next best alternative when making a decision,
representing the benefits that could have been gained if a different choice had
been made.
6. Direct Costs:
o Costs that can be directly attributed to a specific product, project, or
department, such as materials and labour.
7. Indirect Costs:
o Costs that are not directly attributable to a specific product or service but are
necessary for overall operations, such as administrative expenses and utilities.
Purpose:
Gary Dessler defines compensation in his book "Human Resource Management" as:
"The total of all rewards provided to employees in return for their services. This
includes base pay, bonuses, benefits, and any other perks or incentives provided
by the organization."
"The reward that employees receive in return for their contribution to the
organization. It includes all forms of pay, benefits, and other rewards such as
recognition, which are designed to attract, retain, and motivate employees."
1. Base Pay
o Salaries: Fixed regular payments typically expressed as annual amounts, paid
monthly or bi-weekly.
o Hourly Wages: Payment based on the number of hours worked, commonly
used for non-exempt employees.
2. Variable Pay
o Bonuses: Additional financial rewards given for achieving specific targets or
exceptional performance. Types include performance bonuses, annual
bonuses, and signing bonuses.
o Commissions: Earnings based on sales or business generated, typically used
in sales and marketing roles.
o Incentives: Short-term or long-term rewards linked to individual or company
performance, such as profit-sharing or sales incentives.
3. Benefits
o Health Insurance: Coverage for medical, dental, and vision expenses.
o Retirement Plans: Contributions to pension plans or 401(k) plans, including
matching contributions.
o Paid Time Off (PTO): Includes vacation days, sick leave, and personal days.
4. Equity Compensation
o Stock Options: The right to purchase company shares at a set price, often
used to align employee interests with company performance.
1. Pay-for-Performance
o Definition: A system where compensation is directly linked to individual or
team performance. Employees receive additional pay or bonuses based on how
well they meet or exceed performance goals.
o Purpose: To drive higher performance and align employee efforts with
organizational objectives.
2. Skill-Based Pay
o Definition: Compensation is based on the skills and competencies employees
acquire. Employees earn higher pay as they gain new skills or certifications.
o Purpose: To encourage continuous learning and development.
3. Job-Based Pay
o Definition: Pay levels are determined based on the responsibilities and
requirements of the job. Similar roles with comparable duties are paid
similarly.
o Purpose: To ensure fairness and equity in compensation for similar job roles.
4. Market-Based Pay
o Definition: Compensation is set based on external market rates for similar
positions in the industry or geographic location.
o Purpose: To remain competitive in the labour market and attract talent.
5. Competency-Based Pay
o Definition: Employees are compensated based on their competencies,
including knowledge, skills, and behaviours that contribute to job
performance.
o Purpose: To reward and develop key competencies that are critical to the
organization’s success.
6. Total Rewards
o Definition: A comprehensive approach that includes all forms of
compensation and benefits, emphasizing the overall value offered to
employees rather than just salary.
o Purpose: To create a holistic package that addresses various aspects of
employee well-being and motivation.
1. Base Pay
o Salary/Wage Structure: Establishes a clear salary or wage structure based on
job roles, responsibilities, and market rates.
2. Variable Pay
o Bonuses and Incentives: Offers performance-based bonuses and incentives to
reward exceptional performance and align employee efforts with
organizational goals.
3. Benefits
o Health and Welfare: Provides comprehensive benefits such as health
insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off to support employee well-being.
4. Equity Compensation
o Stock Options and RSUs: Includes equity-based rewards like stock options
or restricted stock units to align employees’ interests with the company’s long-
term success.
5. Recognition Programs
o Awards and Acknowledgments: Implements recognition programs to reward
and celebrate employees’ achievements and contributions.
1. Enhanced Productivity
o Motivated Workforce: Fair compensation increases employee motivation and
productivity, leading to better performance and achievement of business goals.
o Efficient Use of Resources: A well-structured compensation system ensures
that financial resources are allocated effectively, supporting organizational
objectives.
2. Reduced Turnover and Associated Costs
1. Purpose
Objective: Clearly define the purpose of the policy, such as attracting, retaining, and
motivating employees, ensuring pay equity, and aligning compensation with the
company’s strategic goals.
2. Scope
Applicability: Specify which employees the policy applies to (e.g., full-time, part-
time, temporary staff, executives).
3. Compensation Structure
Base Salary: Outline how base salaries are determined (e.g., market rates, job
evaluations, internal equity).
Pay Grades/Levels: Define any salary grades or levels, including how roles are
classified and the associated pay ranges.
5. Benefits
Health and Wellness: Detail the health insurance, dental, vision, and other wellness
benefits provided.
Retirement Plans: Describe retirement benefits, including 401(k) plans, pensions, or
other retirement savings options.
Other Benefits: Include information on paid time off, parental leave, and any other
perks.
6. Compensation Review
Equal Pay: Ensure the policy aligns with equal pay laws and aims to eliminate pay
disparities.
Transparency: Describe how the company maintains transparency in compensation
practices.
8. Compliance
Legal Requirements: Ensure the policy complies with federal, state, and local wage
and hour laws.
Internal Policies: Align with other internal policies and procedures.
9. Communication
10. Administration
Review Schedule: Indicate how often the policy will be reviewed and updated.
Amendment Process: Describe the process for making amendments to the policy.
Overview: Sets salaries based on prevailing market rates for similar roles in the
industry and geographic region.
Objective: Ensure competitiveness in attracting and retaining talent.
Implementation: Regularly benchmark against salary surveys and adjust
compensation based on market trends.
1. Market Research:
Objective: To understand the prevailing compensation trends for similar roles in the local job
market.
Steps:
Data Collection: Digi Growth Solutions conducts a survey or uses industry reports to gather
data on current salary levels for Digital Marketing Managers in Bangalore.
Sources: They might use data from salary benchmarking firms, job portals, industry
associations, and compensation surveys.
Findings: The survey reveals that the average annual salary for a Digital Marketing Manager
in Bangalore ranges from ₹12,00,000 to ₹18,00,000. This range varies based on factors such
as:
o Experience: More experienced candidates typically command higher salaries.
o Skills and Qualifications: Specialized skills and certifications can influence salary.
o Company Size and Industry: Larger companies or those in high-growth sectors may
offer higher salaries.
Objective: To set a competitive and attractive salary range based on market data.
3. Compensation Package:
Objective: To craft a complete offer that includes not just the base salary but other benefits
to attract and retain the candidate.
Base Salary: A candidate with 7 years of experience and a strong background in digital
marketing is offered a salary of ₹15,00,000 annually. This amount is within the determined
range and reflects the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
Additional Benefits:
Outcome:
2. Pay-for-Performance
Company: Infosys
Role: Senior Software Engineer
Scenario: Infosys has a structured performance bonus system where employees receive a
base salary plus a performance-related bonus. Employees are evaluated based on their project
outcomes, client feedback, and overall contribution to the company’s goals.
Details: An employee who exceeds performance targets, demonstrates exceptional problem-
solving skills, and contributes to successful project delivery may receive a bonus that could be
up to 20% of their annual salary.
3. Skill-Based Compensation
Wipro, a leading IT services company in India, wants to reward its Software Engineers based
on the advanced technical skills and certifications they acquire. They implement a skill-based
compensation model to drive upskill and specialization.
Implementation Steps:
4. Performance Evaluation:
o During annual performance reviews, employees who have acquired and applied
advanced skills are assessed. For example, a Software Engineer who completes a
certification in advanced cloud architecture and successfully applies it in a major
project will see an adjustment in their compensation based on the skill-based pay
structure.
5. Career Advancement:
o Employees who consistently update their skill set and demonstrate proficiency in
high-demand areas are considered for promotions and further salary increases. For
example, an employee with advanced skills in data analytics and a proven track
record of project success might be promoted to a Senior Engineer role with a higher
salary.
Outcome:
Enhanced Skills and Competence: Employees are motivated to acquire and apply valuable
skills, leading to a more skilled workforce.
Company Benefits: Wipro benefits from having employees with up-to-date and specialized
skills that align with industry trends and client needs.
Employee Satisfaction: Employees appreciate the opportunity to increase their earnings
based on their skill set and professional development, leading to higher job satisfaction and
retention.
4. Job-Based Compensation
Outcome:
Fair Compensation: Employees in similar roles receive consistent and fair compensation,
which promotes transparency and equity within the company.
Market Alignment: Reliance maintains competitive compensation packages that attract and
retain talent by aligning pay with market rates.
Employee Satisfaction: Standardized compensation helps avoid discrepancies and disputes
over pay, contributing to higher employee satisfaction and morale\
5. Commission-Based Compensation
HDFC Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, uses a commission-based
compensation model for its Relationship Managers who are responsible for acquiring new
customers and cross-selling banking products.
Implementation Steps:
2. Base Salary:
o In addition to the commission, Relationship Managers receive a base salary to
provide financial stability. For example, a Relationship Manager might have a base
salary of ₹6,00,000 to ₹8,00,000 per annum.
Outcome:
6. Profit-Sharing
Tata Consultancy Services, a leading IT services and consulting company in India, uses a
profit-sharing scheme to reward its Project Managers. This scheme is designed to align their
interests with the company's overall profitability and performance.
Implementation Steps:
2. Eligibility Criteria:
o Role and Tenure: The profit-sharing plan may be available to Project Managers and
other senior roles who have been with the company for a minimum period, say one
year.
o Performance Metrics: Employees are evaluated based on individual performance,
project outcomes, and contribution to the company’s success.
3. Calculation of Share:
Outcome:
7. Equity-Based Compensation
Company: Zomato
Role: Senior Product Manager
Scenario:
Zomato, a prominent Indian food delivery and restaurant discovery platform, uses equity-
based compensation to attract and retain top talent, particularly in its senior roles. For a
Senior Product Manager, equity-based compensation helps align their interests with the
company’s growth and success.
Implementation Steps:
3. Grant Options:
o Option Grant: Upon joining the company, the Senior Product Manager is granted
stock options with a strike price, which is the price at which they can buy shares in
the future. For example, if the company’s share price at the time of grant is ₹100, the
strike price might also be set at ₹100.
8. Broad-Banded Compensation
Overview: Uses fewer salary bands with wider ranges, allowing for more flexibility
in compensation.
Objective: Simplify salary administration and provide more flexibility in managing
pay.
Implementation: Employees may receive salaries within broad ranges based on their
performance, skills, and contributions.
Implementation Steps:
3. Compensation Flexibility:
4. Career Progression:
o Career Development: The broad-banded structure supports career development by
allowing employees to move between roles within the same band or advance to
higher bands. For example, a Software Engineer who demonstrates leadership skills
and achieves high performance might be promoted to a Senior Software Engineer role
within the same band or move to Band 2.
o Skill Enhancement: Employees are encouraged to acquire new skills and take on
additional responsibilities to advance within the bands or move to higher bands.
Outcome:
9. Pay Equity
Overview: Ensures that employees are paid fairly for similar work, regardless of
gender, race, or other personal characteristics.
Objective: Promote fairness and prevent discrimination.
Implementation: Regularly audit compensation practices to identify and address pay
disparities.
HDFC Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, is committed to ensuring pay equity
among its Customer Relationship Managers (CRM). The bank aims to address and correct
any disparities in pay to promote fairness and inclusivity.
Implementation Steps:
Fair Compensation: Employees receive fair and equal pay for their roles and contributions,
regardless of gender or other non-performance-related factors.
Increased Transparency: Transparent compensation policies and practices foster trust and
credibility among employees.
Enhanced Employee Satisfaction: Addressing pay equity contributes to higher job
satisfaction, motivation, and retention.
Infosys, a major IT services company in India, offers a total reward compensation package to
its Senior Software Engineers. The total reward package includes various elements designed
to attract, retain, and motivate employees.
1. Base Salary:
o Competitive Salary: Senior Software Engineers receive a competitive base salary
based on their role, experience, and market standards. For example, the base salary
might range from ₹15,00,000 to ₹25,00,000 per annum, depending on experience
and expertise.
2. Performance Bonuses:
o Annual Performance Bonus: Employees are eligible for an annual performance
bonus based on individual and company performance. For instance, a Senior Software
Engineer might receive up to 15% of their base salary as a bonus if performance
targets are met.
3. Equity-Based Compensation:
o Stock Options: To align employees’ interests with the company’s long-term success,
Infosys offers stock options or equity grants. A Senior Software Engineer might be
granted stock options worth ₹5,00,000 with a vesting period of four years.
4. Benefits:
5. Work-Life Balance:
o Paid Time Off: Generous leave policies including annual leave, sick leave, and
casual leave. For example, 20 days of annual leave plus public holidays.
o Flexible Work Arrangements: Options for remote work or flexible working hours to
support work-life balance.
6. Career Development:
o Training and Development: Access to professional development programs,
certifications, and workshops. Infosys provides opportunities for employees to attend
industry conferences and training sessions to enhance their skills.
o Career Pathing: Clear career progression paths with regular performance reviews
and promotions based on performance and potential.
8. Additional Perks:
o Company Discounts: Discounts on company products or services, if applicable.
o On-Site Amenities: Facilities like gym memberships, cafeterias, and recreational
areas at company offices.
Outcome:
TCS, a leading IT services company in India, offers a flexible compensation plan to its Senior
Analysts. This plan allows employees to customize their compensation package by choosing
from various options based on their personal preferences and needs.
1. Base Salary:
o Fixed Component: Employees receive a fixed base salary that forms the foundation
of their compensation package. For example, a Senior Analyst might have a base
salary ranging from ₹12,00,000 to ₹18,00,000 per annum.
3. Performance-Based Bonuses:
o Variable Pay: In addition to the base salary, employees are eligible for performance-
based bonuses. This could be a percentage of their annual salary, such as up to 20%
based on individual and company performance.
4. Stock Options:
o Equity Component: Employees have the option to receive part of their
compensation in the form of stock options. For example, a Senior Analyst may
choose to allocate ₹2,00,000 of their annual compensation towards stock options,
which vest over time.
5. Retirement Benefits:
o Pension Plans: Employees can choose from various retirement benefits, including
provident fund contributions, pension plans, or additional retirement savings options.
They can allocate a portion of their salary towards these plans based on their
retirement goals.
6. Work-Life Balance:
o Flexible Work Hours: Employees can choose flexible working hours or work-from-
home options as part of their compensation package.
o Additional Leave Days: Employees can opt for additional paid leave days or a
flexible leave policy.
Outcome:
ELEMENTS OF COST
1. Direct Costs
2. Indirect Costs
Definition: Costs that are not directly attributable to a specific product, project, or
department but are necessary for overall operations.
Examples:
o Indirect Materials: Supplies used across various departments (e.g., cleaning
supplies).
o Indirect Labor: Salaries of employees who support production indirectly
(e.g., supervisors, maintenance staff).
3. Fixed Costs
4. Variable Costs
Definition: Costs that vary directly with the level of production or activity.
Examples:
o Raw Materials: Costs of materials that increase with production volume.
o Utility Costs: Variable portion of utilities that increase with higher production
levels.
5. Semi-Variable Costs
6. Marginal Costs
Definition: The additional cost incurred from producing one more unit of a product.
Examples:
o Additional Raw Materials: Costs of materials for producing one extra unit.
o Extra Labor: Additional labour costs for increased production.
Definition: The cost of forgoing the next best alternative when making a decision.
Examples:
o Investment Decisions: Potential returns from investing in a different project.
o Resource Allocation: Benefits lost from choosing one project over another.
8. Overhead Costs
Definition: Costs that are not directly traceable to specific products or services but
are necessary for overall operations.
Examples:
o Administrative Expenses: Costs related to the general administration of the
company (e.g., office supplies, salaries of administrative staff).
o Depreciation: Costs associated with the wear and tear of fixed assets (e.g.,
machinery, buildings).
9. Sunk Costs
Definition: Costs that have already been incurred and cannot be recovered.
Examples:
o Past Investments: Costs of research and development already spent.
o Previous Purchases: Expenses on equipment that cannot be refunded.
Definition: The sum of all direct and indirect costs incurred in the production of
goods or services.
Calculation:
o Total Cost = Direct Costs + Indirect Costs
Definition: The costs associated with the day-to-day operations of the business.
Examples:
o Selling Expenses: Advertising, sales commissions.
o Administrative Expenses: Office supplies, utilities.
PERSONNEL FUNCTION
Recruitment and Staffing: Attracting, selecting, and onboarding employees to fill roles.
1. Training and Development: Enhancing employee skills and fostering career growth.
2. Performance Management: Setting goals, evaluating performance, and addressing
issues.
3. Compensation and Benefits: Managing salaries, bonuses, and employee benefits.
4. Employee Relations: Handling conflicts, boosting engagement, and ensuring
compliance.
5. Health and Safety: Maintaining a safe work environment and promoting wellness.
6. Legal Compliance: Adhering to labour laws and regulations.
7. Organizational Development: Shaping company culture and managing change.
8. HR Information Systems: Using technology to manage HR data and processes.
9. Retention: Developing strategies to keep top talent and reduce turnover.
The costs associated with personnel functions encompass a variety of expenses related to
managing and supporting the workforce. These costs can be broadly categorized into several
areas:
Advertising: Costs for job postings on websites, job boards, and other media.
Recruitment Agency Fees: Fees paid to external agencies for sourcing candidates.
Interview Expenses: Costs related to interviewing candidates, including travel and
accommodation for out-of-town candidates.
Background Checks: Fees for conducting background checks and verifications.
3. Compensation Costs
Safety Equipment: Costs for personal protective equipment (PPE) and other safety
gear.
Compliance: Expenses related to meeting health and safety regulations, including
audits and training.
Wellness Programs: Costs for health screenings, wellness activities, and employee
assistance programs.
Legal Fees: Costs for legal consultations or services related to employment laws and
regulations.
Compliance Training: Expenses for training programs focused on legal compliance
and regulatory issues.
HR Staff Salaries: Wages for HR personnel who manage and execute HR functions.
Office Supplies: Costs for office supplies and equipment used by HR departments.
Definition:
Labour turnover is the rate at which employees exit an organization, whether through
resignation, retirement, termination, or other reasons, and are replaced by new hires.
Key Metrics:
2. Types of Turnover:
o Voluntary Turnover: When employees leave by choice, such as resignations
or retirements.
o Involuntary Turnover: When employees are terminated or laid off by the
employer.
Implications:
1. Cost: High turnover can be costly due to recruitment, training, and lost productivity
expenses.
2. Morale: Frequent departures can affect team morale and stability.
3. Knowledge Loss: Departures may result in the loss of valuable skills and institutional
knowledge.
Lack of Fulfilment: Employees may leave if they find their work uninteresting or not
aligned with their career goals.
Poor Work Environment: Unpleasant work conditions or negative office culture can
drive employees away.
Inadequate Pay: Low salaries or benefits compared to industry standards can prompt
employees to seek better-paying opportunities.
Lack of Benefits: Insufficient health insurance, retirement plans, or other benefits can
be a major factor.
3. Career Development
4. Work-Life Balance
6. Job Security
7. Organizational Culture
8. External Factors
9. Job Fit
Mismatch of Skills: Employees who find that their skills and interests do not match
their job responsibilities might leave in search of a better fit.
Role Clarity: Ambiguity about job expectations or responsibilities can lead to
dissatisfaction and turnover.
Life Changes: Significant personal life changes, such as relocation or health issues,
can lead to employee turnover.
Pursuit of Education: Employees may leave to pursue further education or other
personal development opportunities.
Conduct Exit Interviews: Understand the reasons behind departures and identify
areas for improvement.
Improve Employee Engagement: Foster a positive work environment and recognize
employee contributions.
Offer Competitive Compensation: Regularly review and adjust compensation and
benefits packages.
Support Career Development: Provide clear career paths and ongoing training
opportunities.
Direct Labor Defined: Direct labour consists of the wages and salaries paid to
employees who are directly involved in the production process or in delivering a
service. These employees' work can be specifically traced to a particular product,
project, or service.
Direct vs. Indirect Labor: Direct labour is distinct from indirect labour, which
includes employees who support the production process but are not directly involved
in creating products (e.g., maintenance workers, supervisors).
Traceability: Direct labour costs can be directly traced to specific products, services,
or projects. This is in contrast to indirect labour, which is not directly attributable to
any specific cost object.
Variable Costs: Direct labour costs often vary with production levels. As more
products are produced, more direct labour hours are typically required.
Wages and Salaries: The primary component is the direct payment made to workers
based on their time spent working on specific tasks.
Overtime Pay: Any additional pay for hours worked beyond the standard workweek,
if applicable to direct labour employees.
Benefits and Allowances: Additional costs like health insurance or travel allowances
that are directly attributable to the production of goods or services.
Hourly Wage Calculation: Multiply the number of direct labour hours worked by
the hourly wage rate. Direct Labor Cost=Direct Labor Hours×Hourly Wage Rate\text
{Direct Labor Cost} = \text{Direct Labor Hours} \times \text{Hourly Wage
6. Accounting Treatment
Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): Direct labour costs are included in COGS for
manufacturers, reflecting the cost of labour directly associated with producing
products.
Work in Progress (WIP): In manufacturing, direct labour costs are part of WIP
inventory, which includes all costs related to partially finished goods.
Cost of Services: For service industries, direct labour costs are included in the cost of
providing services.
Product Costing: Accurate direct labour costing is essential for determining the cost
of producing goods and services, influencing pricing and profitability.
Budgeting: Helps in creating accurate budgets and financial forecasts by estimating
labour costs associated with different production levels or service requirements.
Performance Evaluation: Used to assess labour productivity and efficiency,
identifying areas for potential improvements or cost savings.
Efficiency Monitoring: Tracking direct labour hours and costs helps in identifying
inefficiencies or potential areas for improvement in the production process.
Cost Allocation: Properly allocating direct labour costs ensures accurate product
costing and financial reporting.
1. Definition:
Indirect Labor Defined: Indirect labour includes wages and salaries of employees whose
work supports the production process but cannot be directly traced to specific products or
services. These employees help maintain the infrastructure, manage production, or provide
essential services but do not directly produce the end product.
Support Role: Indirect labour employees play supportive roles rather than directly engaging
in the production or delivery process.
Cost Allocation: Indirect labour costs are allocated across different products or departments
rather than directly assigned to a specific product or service.
Manufacturing Sector:
o Maintenance Staff: Employees responsible for maintaining machinery and
equipment.
o Supervisors and Managers: Personnel who oversee production processes but do not
directly engage in manufacturing.
o Quality Control Inspectors: Employees who ensure the quality of products but do
not contribute to the actual production.
Service Sector:
o Administrative Staff: Office personnel who manage administrative tasks, such as
human resources or finance, supporting the overall operation.
o Janitorial Staff: Employees responsible for cleaning and maintaining a clean work
environment.
o IT Support: Technicians who manage and support IT systems used throughout the
organization.
4. Accounting Treatment:
Overhead Costs: Indirect labour costs are classified as part of manufacturing overhead (in
manufacturing) or operating expenses (in service industries). They are not included in the
direct cost of goods sold (COGS) but are allocated to the cost of production.
Cost Allocation: Indirect labour costs are allocated based on predetermined rates or formulas.
For example, they may be allocated based on labour hours or machine hours used.
Cost Control: Monitoring and controlling indirect labour costs helps in managing overall
operational expenses and improving efficiency.
Budgeting: Proper allocation of indirect labour costs is crucial for accurate budgeting and
financial forecasting.
Cost Analysis: Understanding indirect labour costs contributes to comprehensive cost
analysis and helps in setting appropriate pricing strategies.
Direct Labor: Involves employees directly engaged in the production of goods or services
(e.g., assembly line workers, service providers).
Indirect Labor: Involves employees who provide support and maintenance but do not
directly produce the end product (e.g., maintenance staff, administrative personnel).
Salaries and Wages: Of employees who support operations but do not directly contribute to
production, such as HR personnel or financial analysts.
Employee Benefits: Costs related to the benefits of indirect labour employees, like health
insurance and retirement contributions.
Profit Margins: Accurate allocation of indirect labour costs affects the calculation of profit
margins and overall financial performance.
Product Costing: Helps in determining the full cost of production by including both direct
and indirect costs.
1. Budgeting Techniques
Fixed Budgeting: Setting a fixed budget for a specific period, where costs are
planned and controlled within the established limits.
Flexible Budgeting: Adjusting the budget based on actual performance and changes
in activity levels, allowing for more accurate cost control.
Zero-Based Budgeting: Starting from a "zero base" and justifying all expenses for
each new period, rather than basing the budget on previous years' figures.
Variance Analysis: Comparing actual costs to budgeted costs to identify and analyse
variances. This helps in understanding the reasons behind cost overruns or savings.
Break-Even Analysis: Calculating the point at which total revenues equal total costs,
helping to determine the minimum sales needed to avoid losses.
Setting Standard Costs: Establishing predetermined costs for materials, labour, and
overhead based on historical data or industry benchmarks.
Cost Variance Analysis: Comparing actual costs to standard costs to identify
variances and understand the reasons behind them.
7. Control Procedures
Just-in-Time (JIT): Reducing inventory levels and carrying costs by receiving goods
only as needed for production or sales.
Economic Order Quantity (EOQ): Calculating the optimal order quantity that
minimizes total inventory costs, including ordering and holding costs.
ABC Analysis: Categorizing inventory items based on their importance and value,
focusing efforts on managing high-value items more closely.
2. Finance
3. Legal
5. Operations/Management
6. IT
7. Internal Audit
1. Types of Workers
2. Part-Time Employees
Description: Part-time employees work fewer hours than full-time employees, with
schedules that can vary widely. They might work fewer than 30 hours per week or
have flexible hours.
Roles and Responsibilities: Their tasks and roles can be similar to those of full-time
employees but on a reduced scale. They often fill positions that require flexibility or
additional support.
Characteristics: Benefits for part-time employees can be limited compared to full-
time staff. However, some organizations provide pro-rated benefits or allow part-time
employees to accrue PTO.
Description: Temporary workers are hired for a specific period or to meet short-term
needs, often through a staffing agency.
Roles and Responsibilities: They might handle seasonal workloads, fill in for absent
employees, or work on short-term projects. Their roles can range from administrative
support to specialized technical tasks.
Characteristics: They generally do not receive the same benefits as permanent
employees and may have limited job security. Their employment is usually contingent
on the completion of their assignment or project.
4. Contract Workers
Description: Contract workers are hired to perform specific tasks or projects over a
set period, often defined by a contract.
Roles and Responsibilities: They work on predefined projects with clear deliverables
and deadlines. Their responsibilities are often project-based and may involve
specialized skills or expertise.
Characteristics: Contract workers are typically responsible for their own taxes and
benefits. They may work independently or with minimal oversight and are usually not
entitled to the same benefits as full-time employees.
5. Freelancers
6. Interns
Description: Interns are typically students or recent graduates who work temporarily
to gain experience in their field of study or career interest.
Roles and Responsibilities: Interns assist with various tasks and projects, providing
support to full-time employees while learning about the industry and gaining practical
experience.
Characteristics: Internships can be paid or unpaid, depending on the organization
and the intern’s educational requirements. Interns may or may not receive benefits,
but they often gain valuable skills and networking opportunities.
7. Volunteers
9. Middle Management
Description: Administrative staff handle various office-related tasks that support the
organization’s operations.
Roles and Responsibilities: They perform clerical duties such as managing
correspondence, scheduling meetings, organizing files, and providing general office
support.
Description: These workers interact with customers and clients to provide support,
information, and sales assistance.
Roles and Responsibilities: They handle customer inquiries, resolve issues, process
orders, and provide product or service information. Their role is crucial for customer
satisfaction and retention.
Characteristics: Their compensation might include base salaries plus commission or
performance bonuses. They play a significant role in maintaining positive
relationships with customers and driving sales.
Purpose: To understand the roles and responsibilities of different positions within the
organization, which helps in determining appropriate compensation levels.
Steps:
Methods:
2. Job Evaluation
Purpose: To determine the relative worth of each job within the organization to ensure fair
and equitable compensation.
Steps:
Methods:
Ranking Method: Rank jobs from highest to lowest based on their relative worth.
Classification Method: Group jobs into predefined classes or categories.
Point Factor Method: Assign points to different job factors (e.g., skills, effort) and
calculate the total points to determine job worth.
Factor Comparison Method: Compare jobs based on key factors and assign
monetary values to these factors.
3. Salary Surveys
Steps:
Sources:
Purpose: To create a compensation structure that aligns with the organization’s goals, values,
and market conditions.
Steps:
Components:
5. Compensation Administration
NOTES BY PROF. RICHA DOSHI
Purpose: To manage and implement the compensation plan effectively, ensuring consistency
and fairness.
Steps:
Tasks:
Purpose: To ensure that compensation practices comply with legal requirements and ethical
standards.
Considerations:
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Adhere to laws related to minimum wage,
overtime pay, and record-keeping.
Equal Pay Act: Ensure equal pay for equal work regardless of gender.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Comply with laws prohibiting discrimination based on
race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and age.
Transparency and Fairness: Maintain transparency in compensation practices and
ensure fairness in pay decisions.
Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of the compensation management process and make
improvements as needed.
Steps:
JOB EVALUATION
SALARY SURVEYS
COMPESATION STRATEGY
DEVELOPMENT
COMPENSATION
ADMINISTRATION
Definition of Reward:
1. Motivation:
2. Recognition:
3. Incentivization:
Rewards are used to stimulate specific behaviours or outcomes. For example, bonuses
might be tied to sales targets, while other rewards might encourage innovation,
teamwork, or adherence to company values.
4. Retention:
5. Attraction:
An appealing reward package can attract top talent to the organization. Prospective
employees often consider compensation and benefits as a key factor when evaluating
job offers.
6. Engagement:
7. Performance Alignment:
8. Employee Development:
Rewards can support personal and professional growth by offering opportunities for
career development, training, and education. This helps employees enhance their
skills and advance their careers.
Rewards can reinforce the organization's core values and desired behaviours. By
linking rewards to specific values or cultural norms, organizations ensure that
employees understand and embody these principles in their daily work.
When employees feel that their hard work is recognized and valued, it leads to higher
job satisfaction. Satisfied employees are more likely to be content with their roles and
have a positive attitude towards their work environment.
4. Attracts Talent:
Engaged employees are those who are emotionally invested in their work and the
organization. Effective reward systems enhance engagement by making employees
feel valued and connected to the company’s mission.
Rewards can be used to reinforce the organizational culture and values. For example,
recognizing employees who exemplify company values helps in embedding these
values into the everyday work environment.
1. Strategic Alignment: Ensuring that the reward system supports the organization’s
objectives and values, and is aligned with its strategic goals. This includes designing
rewards that encourage behaviours and outcomes that contribute to the company’s
success.
2. Compensation Structures: Developing and managing salary structures, bonus
schemes, and other financial rewards to ensure fair and equitable compensation for
employees based on their roles, performance, and market conditions.
3. Recognition Programs: Implementing non-monetary rewards such as praise, awards,
and public acknowledgment to recognize and celebrate employee achievements and
contributions.
4. Benefit Plans: Designing and managing fringe benefits like health insurance,
retirement plans, and work-life balance initiatives to enhance employee well-being
and job satisfaction.
5. Performance Management: Linking rewards to performance outcomes by setting
clear performance metrics and providing incentives for meeting or exceeding these
targets.
6. Communication and Transparency: Ensuring that reward policies and practices are
clearly communicated to employees and are transparent to foster trust and
understanding.
7. Evaluation and Adjustment: Regularly assessing the effectiveness of the reward
system, gathering feedback, and making necessary adjustments to ensure it remains
relevant and effective in achieving its objectives.
a. Define Objectives:
Establish the goals of the reward system, such as enhancing employee performance, attracting
talent, or improving job satisfaction.
Align these goals with the organization’s strategic vision and values.
Assess the organization's needs and constraints, including budget, market position, and
organizational culture.
Identify the specific needs and preferences of different employee groups.
Create salary ranges and pay grades based on job evaluation results.
Design variable pay elements such as bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing plans.
Include benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and additional perks.
Ensure these benefits are competitive and cater to employees' needs.
4. Implementation:
Clearly explain the reward system to employees, detailing how rewards are earned and
distributed.
Use various communication channels, such as meetings, newsletters, and internal websites.
Provide training on the reward system’s administration and the criteria for earning rewards.
Ensure managers understand how to effectively link rewards with performance.
c. Administer Rewards:
Implement the reward system as designed, ensuring timely and accurate distribution.
Monitor the administration process to address any issues promptly.
a. Collect Feedback:
Solicit feedback from employees and managers about the reward system’s effectiveness and
fairness.
Use surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather insights.
b. Measure Effectiveness:
Analyse the impact of the reward system on performance, motivation, and retention.
Compare actual outcomes against the initial objectives and goals.
Ensure that the reward system complies with relevant labour laws and regulations.
Review and update policies to meet changing legal requirements.
b. Promote Fairness:
7. Continuous Improvement:
a. Stay Updated:
Keep abreast of industry trends, best practices, and changes in employee expectations.
Assess the long-term impact of the reward system on employee engagement and
organizational success.
Make strategic adjustments to enhance the system’s effectiveness over time.