Xinyao (Cindy) Zhu

Xinyao (Cindy) Zhu

Contact Information

  • office Address:

    1360 Steinberg Hall - Dietrich Hall
    3620 Locust Walk
    Philadelphia, PA 19104

Teaching

All Courses

  • ACCT1020 - Strategic Cost Analysis

    Strategic Cost Analysis is the process of analyzing and managing costs in order to improve the strategic position of the business. This goal can be accomplished by having a thorough understanding of which activities and costs support an organization's strategic position and which activities and costs either weaken it or have no impact. Subsequent cost management efforts can then focus on reducing or limiting expenditures on activities that add little or no strategic value, while increasing expenditures on activities that support the strategic position of the organization. Performance can then be evaluated to ensure that the chosen actions are taken, and that these actions are yielding improved strategic performance. Throughout the course, a strategic cost analysis and management framework will be applied across functions and organizations to highlight the cost analysis and performance evaluation methods available to forecast financial performance and improve strategic position.

Knowledge at Wharton

Examining How Amazon Fulfillment Centers Influence Local Economic Growth

Wharton senior vice dean for Innovation and Global Initiatives tells how large-scale retail fulfillment centers shape the economy of the surrounding communities.Read More

Knowledge @ Wharton - 12/5/2025
How Chatbots Shape Emotional Well-Being in the Age of AI

Wharton marketing professor examines how consumers use AI chatbots for companionship and emotional support.Read More

Knowledge @ Wharton - 12/3/2025
Inside NFL Chaos: Power Rankings, Prediction, and Team Strength

Veteran NFL analytics expert breaks down why traditional win-loss records often misrepresent true team strength.Read More

Knowledge @ Wharton - 12/3/2025