Cost Dynamics is a term used by Porter to indicate that in addition to Analyzing Cost behavior at a point in time (Cost Drivers), a firm must also consider how the absolute and relative cost of Value Activities will change over time independent of its strategy.
A firm with insight into cost dynamics may be able to position itself to gain a Cost Advantage by anticipating these changes and moving quickly to respond to them.
Sources of Cost Dynamics
The most important sources of cost dynamics are:
Industry Real Growth. For example, growth of an entire industry may open up possibilities to achieve Economies of Scale.
Differential Scale Sensitivity. As market or sales volumes grow or decrease, this may effect some firms more than others.
Different Learning Rates.
Differential Technological Change.
Relative Inflation of Costs. For example if oil prices go up, this may shift the relative cost of certain activities compared to others.
Aging. Older machines require more maintenance costs. An older employee typically receives a higher salary.
Market Adjustment. When competitors are increasingly adopting similar value activities, this may increase the cost level for these activities.
Forum about Cost Dynamics. Below you can ask a question about this topic, share your experiences, report a new development, or explain something.
🔥
Is AI a New Source of Cost Dynamics?
Do you think Artificial Intelligence (big data, self-learning software, digital networks, algorithms) represents an entirely new source of cost dynamics?...
Cost Drivers, Cost Behavior, Direct Costs, Indirect Costs, Controllable Costs, Uncontrollable Costs This presentation provides a better understanding about cost, cost types, costs drivers and other cost dynamics, and inc...
Research Links
Jump to further research sources regarding Cost Dynamics.