Proceedings of the International scientific and practical conference ―Cambridge Science and Education Conference‖ (May 15-17, 2026) / Publisher website: www.naukainfo.com. - Cambridge, United Kingdom, 2026. - 429 p.

40 Contemporary cost management theory is gradually shifting its focus from the mechanical reduction of costs toward the creation of strategic value and the enhancement of the enterprise‘s long-term competitiveness. Within modern approaches, costs are viewed not merely as an object of control, but also as an instrument for creating customer value and fostering business development. This approach is based on the value chain concept, Lean Management, value stream management and customer value analysis, which represent well-established foundational frameworks in strategic cost management theory. Under these conditions, the primary objective is no longer cost minimization at any price, but rather the optimization of the cost structure in accordance with the strategic objectives of the enterprise and consumer needs. [5, 6] Thus, contemporary cost management is undergoing a profound transformation driven by digitalization, artificial intelligence, and the automation of managerial processes. An emerging conceptual model of AI-enhanced strategic cost management is taking shape, in which cost management is integrated with AI-driven analytics, predictive analytics, digital resource management, and enterprise-wide strategic decision-making. REFERENCES: 1. Massimo Fascinari, Vincent English (2025) The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Strategic Technology Management: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Resources, Capabilities, and Human-AI Collaboration. The Development of Humanities and Social Sciences , vol.1, no. 5, pp. 133-157. Available at: DOI: https://doi.org/10.71204/qeqqvj92 (accessed 12 April 2026) 2. Schwäke, J., Gerlich, C., Nguyen, L., Kanbach, D., & Gast, J. (2025). Artificial intelligence (AI) for good? Enabling organizational change towards sustainability. Review of Managerial Science . vol.19, pp. 3013-3038 Available at: URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/388275077_Artificial_intelligence_AI