CATALOG

Management Accounting: A Strategic Focus, © 2004
The Modular Series
FAQs

How does the cost of using a modular series compare to that of a textbook?
Each module is priced separately and may be used alone or in conjunction with other modules and other materials. The more modules ordered, the lower the price per module, based on a sliding scale pricing structure. Because faculty can customize their materials, students only pay for the modules they need. Further, the selection and configuration of the modules can be changed from one term to the next.

At what level are the modules written? Undergraduate? Graduate?
The modules are content based rather than course driven. Therefore they may be used across the managerial/cost curriculum - at the undergraduate or graduate levels - as either the main text or as supplements to a main text. Each presents an introductory but comprehensive coverage of the topic; each includes problems and cases at both the introductory and advanced levels to provide ultimate flexibility.

How does the coverage in the modules differ from that of traditional text materials?
First, the modules present a strategic perspective while following the same quality, cost, and time framework of other textbooks. Second, they emphasize the technical, behavioral, and cultural attributes of cost/management accounting data. Finally, the modules consider how environment and technology differences drive cost and management accounting in traditional versus contemporary systems and organizations.

Is there a Solutions Manual for this Modular Series?
Yes! The Solutions for the end-of-chapter problems and cases are available on the Instructor's web site in a password-protected area.

How do I cover both the new material in the modules and the traditional cost content in a single cost accounting course?
You should ration scare class time in a course by choosing topics that are relevant and not necessarily traditional. For example, at a time when organizational survival depends on maintaining high quality, it is more relevant to teach students how to account for quality costs in a way that enables managers to eliminate these costs and not how to account for them in inventory. Similarly, with increasing numbers of organizations moving to activity-based cost systems, spending class time on these topics has value over teaching the details of departmental-based overhead allocations.

Can I create a "custom textbook" from the modules:
You can select and arrange modules to have the look and feel of a textbook.

How can I combine materials from other sources with the modules?
Through HMCo's Custom Publishing, you can work with a custom editor to create a customized version of the modules combined with other materials - including chapters from textbooks as well as cases and readings from a variety of sources. Contact your HMCo Sales Representative to inquire about this option at: http://college.hmco.com/instructors/ins_custompub_home.html.

How can I obtain a sample copy of the modules in the series?
In addition to viewing each of the modules on-line, you can request a sample copy of the modules by calling HMCo's Faculty Services at 1-800-733-1717 or by requesting a copy via our online catalog.

How can I order a modular version textbook?
You can create a customized book directly on our Book Builder Page. An ISBN and Title Code will be assigned once you submit your order. You must print out your confirmation/receipt page and give it to your bookstore. We will not begin printing your textbooks until after your bookstore places the order with HMCO Customer Service.

What will the final text look like?
The customized text will look professional in every way. Regardless of the chapters you choose and the order in which you place them, chapter numbers and page numbers will be numbered sequentially, and the Table of Contents is automatically customized to the chapters you choose.

How long will it take for my books to arrive?
It will take approximately 3-4 weeks from the time your bookstore places your order with HMCO Customer Service.

What if I want to add my own materials to my modular textbook of Management Accounting: A Strategic Focus?
To add your own materials (e.g., a syllabus), you will need to have PDF files prepared for submission. Your original material will be added to the textbook as one chapter. If you do not have PDF files and cannot prepare them yourself, you can discuss other Custom Publishing options with your Houghton Mifflin Sales Representative.

How much will my text cost?
The net price is $5.07 per module up to 5 modules; for 6 or more modules, the net price is discounted, depending on the number of modules ordered. Please note that your bookstore may markup the price of the book. Each book is individually built and includes a customized Table of Contents so length and price may vary up to 5% from the $5.07 per module price.

Is there a minimum number of modules I must order?
Yes. All orders must consist of a minimum of three modules.

Are my books returnable?
Unfortunately, they are not. Since the books are customized to your specifications, returns are not accepted on any Custom Courseware title.

What if I still have questions?
We would be happy to assist you. If you are having difficulty with previewing the module content or ordering online, please contact the help desk at 262-369-6013 or email hmccsupport@comcom.com. If you would like to talk to a Houghton Mifflin Sales Representative, please contact Faculty Services at 1-800-733-1717 and a faculty service representative will provide you with contact information. If you would like to contact our Customer Service Department to check the status of an order you have placed, please call 1-800-225-1464 or email csweb@cengage.com. Visit our Customer Service Page at http://www.college.hmco.com/how/index.html.