How do you present budget and forecast results with software?

1 Choose the right software

The first step is to choose the right software for your budgeting and forecasting needs. There are many options available, from spreadsheet-based tools to cloud-based platforms. You should consider factors such as the size and complexity of your business, the features and functions you need, the cost and security of the software, and the ease of use and integration with other systems. Some examples of popular budgeting and forecasting software are Adaptive Insights, Planful, Prophix, and Anaplan.

2 Prepare your data

The next step is to prepare your data for analysis and presentation. You should ensure that your data is accurate, consistent, and up-to-date. You should also organize your data into relevant categories, such as revenue, expenses, cash flow, and key performance indicators. You should use formulas, functions, and scenarios to calculate your budget and forecast values, and adjust them as needed based on your assumptions and expectations. You should also check for errors and anomalies in your data, and fix them before presenting your results.

3 Visualize your results

The third step is to visualize your results using charts, graphs, tables, and dashboards. You should use the software's built-in features or add-ons to create visual representations of your data that highlight the main points and trends. You should choose the appropriate type of visualization for your data, such as line charts for time series, pie charts for proportions, or bar charts for comparisons. You should also use colors, labels, legends, and titles to make your visuals easy to understand and interpret.

4 Customize your reports

The fourth step is to customize your reports according to your audience and purpose. You should use the software's templates or create your own to design and format your reports. You should include the necessary information, such as the budget and forecast period, the data sources, the assumptions and methods, and the conclusions and recommendations. You should also use headings, subheadings, sections, and page numbers to structure your reports logically and clearly. You should also use fonts, sizes, styles, and alignments to make your reports readable and professional.

5 Share your reports

The final step is to share your reports with your stakeholders, such as managers, investors, clients, or partners. You should use the software's features or integrations to export, print, email, or upload your reports in various formats, such as PDF, Excel, PowerPoint, or HTML. You should also use the software's collaboration and communication tools to share your reports online, such as through cloud storage, web portals, or dashboards. You should also solicit feedback and comments from your stakeholders, and update your reports as needed based on their input.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?