Bad debt in accounting is considered an expense. There are two methods to account for bad debt: 1  Direct write off method (Non-GAAP) - a receivable which is not considered collectible is charged directly to the income statement. 2  Allowance method (GAAP) - an estimate is made at the end of each fiscal year of the amount of bad debt.
Differentiation looks to make a product more attractive by contrasting its unique qualities with other competing products. Successful product differentiation creates a competitive advantage for the seller, as customers view these products as unique or superior. Next Up.
A central feature of monopolistic competition is that products are differentiated. There are four main types of differentiation: Physical product differentiation, where firms use size, design, colour, shape, performance, and features to make their products different. For example, consumer electronics can easily be physically differentiated.