Which of the following is NOT included in a total cost of ownership (TCO)?

The total cost of ownership (TCO) is a comprehensive assessment that captures all costs associated with the purchase, use, and maintenance of a product or system throughout its lifecycle. This typically includes several categories of expenses that an organization incurs.

Acquisition costs refer to the initial purchase price and related expenses to acquire the asset, which are fundamental components of TCO. Operating costs encompass ongoing expenses involved in running the asset, such as utilities and personnel, making them critical to TCO calculations. Maintenance costs relate to any repairs or upkeep needed throughout the asset's life, also essential for calculating TCO.

Finance costs, while relevant in certain contexts such as financing arrangements for acquiring the asset, are not always included in TCO calculations. TCO primarily focuses on costs directly associated with ownership and operational phases rather than financing structures, which might differ based on the organization's capital strategy or financing options. Therefore, finance costs do not fit within the standard framework of TCO, leading to the conclusion that they are not included.