Over time, what is true about the net effect of different measurement focuses on the operating statement?

The net effect of different measurement focuses on the operating statement being ultimately identical illustrates the way various accounting frameworks ultimately align in depicting the financial results of governmental and proprietary funds over time.

Different measurement focuses, such as economic resources and current financial resources, may initially lead to different representations of financial performance in operating statements. However, over time, these perspectives converge, especially regarding the recognition of overall revenues and expenses. This convergence occurs because regardless of the focus initially applied, they all aim to present an accurate and comprehensive understanding of an entity's financial condition.

The rationale is that a well-managed entity will generate surpluses or deficits irrespective of the measurement focus, reflecting a similar economic reality when viewed in the long term. Therefore, while the methods and timing of revenue and expenditure recognition may differ across the types of funds, the net results they reflect ultimately provide a consistent picture of financial performance. This is key in public sector accounting, where different funds may have unique reporting standards, but the overall financial health is what matters in understanding operational effectiveness.