Econ Micro (book Only)
Econ Micro (book Only)
6th Edition
ISBN: 9781337408066
Author: William A. McEachern
Publisher: Cengage Learning
Question
Book Icon
Chapter 14, Problem 1P
To determine

The criteria that firms apply to decide whether to produce a component part or purchase it in the market.

Concept Introduction:

Firms have to list criteria before deciding how to produce a component, based on objectives like profit-making, the cost involved, production limitations like resource availability, etc.

Expert Solution & Answer
Check Mark

Explanation of Solution

Firms always have to decide between making a component or buying it outside. Their decision is always based on criteria like profit expectation and relevant cost of decision making.

Opportunity cost is the opportunity lost by choosing one alternative over the other. Therefore, such decision is based on total economic cost (opportunity cost + external outlays) between the two alternatives available. The one which is lower would be a choice for them. The relevant cost is different in making and buying as the variable and fixed cost differ. So, if the variable cost in contracting out is low, the firms would like to go for buying from the market. However, reliability on quality, timely delivery, and control over operations is questionable.

Want to see more full solutions like this?

Subscribe now to access step-by-step solutions to millions of textbook problems written by subject matter experts!
Students have asked these similar questions
14. Please answer question. Show work clearly.
Engineering economic book. "Frank bought a house for $100,000. He put 20% down and borrowed the rest from the bank. However, the value of the house has now increased to $160,000 and he has paid off $20,000 of the bank loan. What is the equity that Frank has in his home
44 question with explain
Knowledge Booster
Background pattern image
Similar questions
SEE MORE QUESTIONS
Recommended textbooks for you
Text book image
ECON MICRO
Economics
ISBN:9781337000536
Author:William A. McEachern
Publisher:Cengage Learning
Text book image
Managerial Economics: A Problem Solving Approach
Economics
ISBN:9781337106665
Author:Luke M. Froeb, Brian T. McCann, Michael R. Ward, Mike Shor
Publisher:Cengage Learning