Final answer:
In the short run, a business manager is unable to alter total fixed costs, but they can make changes to variable costs per unit, product prices, and production capacity.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the short run, a business manager is unable to alter total fixed costs. Fixed costs are expenses that a business incurs regardless of how much they produce, such as rent or salaries. These costs are typically set and cannot be easily changed in the short run.
However, a business manager can make changes to variable costs per unit, which are costs that change depending on the level of production. Examples of variable costs include raw materials and labor. By adjusting the amount of raw materials used or the number of workers, a manager can control these costs.
A business manager can also have some control over product prices. While market forces such as supply and demand play a role in setting prices, managers can use pricing strategies to influence the price at which products are sold. Finally, a business manager may have the ability to increase production capacity, which refers to the maximum level of output a business can produce. This can be achieved through investments in equipment or expanding facilities.