Which one of the following is not considered to be a benefit of participative budgeting?

Answer (D) is correct. One of the behavioral considerations of budgeting is the extent of participation in the process by managers at all levels within the organization. Managers are more motivated to achieve budgeted goals when they are involved in budget preparation. A broad level of participation usually leads to greater support for the budget and the entity as a whole, as well as a greater understanding of what is to be accomplished. Advantages of a participative budget include greater accuracy of budget estimates. Managers with immediate operational responsibility for activities have a better understanding of what results can be achieved and at what costs. Also, managers cannot blame unrealistic objectives as an excuse for not achieving budget expectations when they have helped to establish those objectives. Despite the involvement of lower level managers, senior management must still participate in the budget process to ensure that the combined objectives of the various departments are consistent with profitability objectives of the company.