This module builds upon previous study of the subject and begins by locating management accounting within the economic, political, social and cultural contexts. The module goes on to evaluate contemporary management accounting research and developments in the context of practical ‘real-life’ business case studies. The module discusses and applies conventional and contemporary management accounting principles and techniques to practical problems and scenarios. In the light of recent dramatic changes to the business environment such as deregulation, globalisation, reduced product life cycles, continuous improvement objectives and increasing customer sophistication, the module then moves on to look at management accounting from a strategic perspective. Key issues such as strategic cost management, performance measurement and management controls will be examined in detail. The module also critically evaluates the diffusion of management accounting systems in the privatised sector and critically appraises the influence of new organizational forms and new technologies on the role of management accounting nationally and internationally.