Question: Comparing Contribution Margin Percentages Following are actual statements of operating income for Microsoft and Procter & Gamble (in millions):
Assume that the only variable cost for Microsoft is "cost of revenue" and for Procter & Gamble the only variable cost is "cost of products sold."
1. Compute the contribution-margin percentage of Microsoft and that of Procter & Gamble. Why do you suppose the percentages are so different?
2. Suppose each company increases its revenue by $10 million. Compute the increase in operating income for each company.
3. Explain how the contribution margin percentage helps you predict the effects on operating income of changes in sales volume. What assumptions do you make in forming such a prediction?