A cost driver is a variable that causes a change in costs as the cost driver changes. In other words, it is a variable that influences the expenses of your business. A cost driver is any measurable input that affects a company's costs, either directly or indirectly. Any factor other than the total number of units produced of a product that can cause changes in total cost. A cost driver connects inputs (resources) and outputs (results). It is used to alter the price of something else.

Cost drivers are the factors that significantly influence the expenses incurred by a business in its operations. These drivers vary across industries and companies but generally include elements such as:

1. Labor: The cost of hiring and compensating employees, including wages, benefits, and training expenses.

2. Materials: The cost of raw materials or components required to produce goods or provide services.

3. Overhead: General expenses necessary for running the business, such as rent, utilities, insurance, and administrative costs.

4. Technology: Investments in technology infrastructure, software, and equipment needed for operations and innovation.

5. Scale of Operations: The volume of production or services rendered can affect costs due to economies or diseconomies of scale.

6. Efficiency and Productivity: The effectiveness of processes and workflows can impact costs through waste reduction, streamlined operations, and improved resource utilization.

7. Regulatory Compliance: Costs associated with adhering to government regulations and standards applicable to the industry.

Identifying and managing these cost drivers are essential for businesses to optimize their resources, improve profitability, and maintain competitiveness in the market.