Garden Patch Foods: Analyzing the Purchasing‐through‐Payables Process

Analyzing nonstrategic functions has become a major focus in today's business environment. This case presents the facts behind a decision faced by Garden Patch Foods, a prepared foods company that is looking for ways to increase efficiency and to improve the bottom line. As management considers how to increase efficiency of support operations, two major alternatives arise: (1) create a shared‐services arrangement for the three divisions or (2) outsource the support functions. The case requires you to assume the role of a staff accountant and analyze the case facts and research issues relevant to shared‐services arrangements and outsourcing. You will then communicate your recommendation in a written report to the CFO. Several references are included in the case to facilitate Internet‐based research.