cost center
Noun
Meaning
cost center (plural cost centers)
(accounting, management) A division or project of an organization to which costs can be specifically allocated.
Coordinate term: profit center
Examples
As part of today's announcement, IBM also previewed new z/OS software that provides foundational capabilities for private cloud service delivery, enabling a transformation from an IT cost center to a value-generating service provider.
It was an ever-growing cost center that kept the CEO out of the newspaper with rigid policies, and implemented standards as if they were a stalwart government department.
In addition to enabling Bieger to meet his record-keeping obligations under the minimum-wage law, the system enhances his business management: Each employee's worktime is assigned to a defined, appropriate cost center.
Become part of the service delivery chain, not a cost center.
How can you represent IT as key strategic investment, rather than a cost center?
IT was always perceived as a cost center.