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Capacity ratio

The capacity ratio compares actual hours worked with budgeted hours: actual hours ÷ budgeted hours × 100%. It indicates the extent to which the planned time capacity was used, not the efficiency with which those hours produced output. Actual hours can exceed budget through overtime. Interpret changes with demand, staffing, breakdown and scheduling evidence, and confirm that the hours are defined consistently across the report.

Worked example

Actual hours are 900 and budgeted hours 1,000, giving capacity ratio 90%. Output equivalent to 990 standard hours would separately give efficiency of 110%.

Common mistake

A capacity ratio below 100% does not prove poor labour efficiency; both can move in different directions.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA MA Direct September 2026–June 2027
FIA FMA Direct September 2026–June 2027