Introduction to Spreadsheets using Excel®

• The power of Excel® for building financial models
• The Ribbons of Excel with their commands and functions
• Using formulae: Copying, anchoring and special pasting
• Using functions: financial, statistical and mathematical
• Review of the financial objectives of business: ROI, ROA, ROE
• Overview of Financial Statements

Proper Planning

• Classical strategic planning models
• Cost-Volume-Profit Analysis and Break-Even as a planning example
• Economic Order Quantity as a planning example
• What-if analysis to build scenario's and test sensitivity
• Maximizing and optimizing techniques
• Linear programming and Solver as optimising tools

Fantastic Forecasting

• Forecasting in perspective - the Past vs. the Future
• Necessity to apply a range of different forecasting methods:
• Qualitative Models used in forecasting
• Quantitative Models focussing on time series and regressions methodology
• Forecasting growth rates
• Recording, applying and modifying forecast assumptions

Beyond Budgeting

• The budget process: Timing and Cycles
• Setting budgeting objectives and tolerance levels
• Budgeting Techniques
• "Beyond Budgeting" compared to traditional budgeting principles
• Operating and Capital budgets
• Monthly reporting procedures and timely action

Putting it together – building the comprehensive model

• Considering the financing mix in strategy
• Considering the Return to Shareholder as the primary indicator
• Build your planning model
• Build your forecasting model
• Build your budgeting model
• Link these together in review