To identify the concept pointed out in the statement, let's analyze the statement and each option in detail:
The statement says, "Only a 5% increase in labour cost may be more troublesome than a 15% increase in postal charges." This suggests that there is a specific point (or threshold) at which a small change in one factor (labour cost) can have a more significant impact than a larger change in another factor (postal charges).
Deviation (1)
Definition: Deviation refers to the difference between the actual performance and the set standards or expected performance.
Why Not: The statement is not about the difference between actual and expected performance but about the impact of changes in different factors.
Critical Point Control (2)
Definition: Critical point control is a concept in management where certain key points or thresholds in a process are identified and monitored closely. These points are critical because they can significantly affect the outcome.
Why Correct: The statement suggests that a small increase in labour cost (a critical point) can have a more significant impact than a larger increase in postal charges. This aligns with the concept of critical point control.
Break-even Analysis (3)
Definition: Break-even analysis is a financial tool used to determine the point at which revenue equals costs, resulting in no profit or loss.
Why Not: The statement is not about the break-even point but about the relative impact of changes in different costs.
Critical Path Method (4)
Definition: The critical path method is a project management technique used to determine the sequence of tasks and the minimum time required to complete a project.
Why Not: The statement is not about project management or the sequence of tasks but about the impact of changes in different costs.
The correct answer is: (2) Critical point control
The statement highlights the concept of critical point control by emphasizing that a small change in one factor (labour cost) can have a more significant impact than a larger change in another factor (postal charges). This suggests that certain points or thresholds in the cost structure are critical and need to be monitored closely.