Budgeting and Forecasting
(19 Reviews)
71 Students
Course Overview:
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to budgeting and forecasting for business professionals, finance students, and entrepreneurs. It covers practical tools and techniques used to plan, control, and analyse financial performance. You’ll learn how to create budgets, apply forecasting methods, manage variances, and align financial goals with strategic objectives.
Key Features:
- Beginner-friendly to intermediate-level
- Step-by-step Excel-based financial modeling
- Real-world case studies and templates
- Taught by experienced finance professionals
- Downloadable resources and practice exercises
- Certificate of Completion
- Lifetime access (for online platforms)
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Understand the principles and purpose of budgeting and forecasting
- Create and manage different types of budgets (operating, capital, cash)
- Forecast revenue, expenses, and cash flow using industry techniques
- Analyse budget variances and adjust forecasts accordingly
- Use Excel tools for financial planning and decision-making
- Support strategic planning through financial insights
Who Should Take This Course:
- Finance and accounting professionals
- Small business owners and entrepreneurs
- MBA and accounting/finance students
- Budget analysts and planners
- Department heads managing financial performance
- Anyone interested in improving financial literacy
Assessment:
- Quizzes at the end of each module
- Final budgeting & forecasting project (Excel-based)
- Scenario-based problem solving
- Optional peer-reviewed assignments
Requirements:
- Basic understanding of financial terms
- Familiarity with Microsoft Excel (basic level)
- No prior budgeting experience required
FAQs:
Q1: Is this course suitable for beginners?
A: Yes. It is designed for beginners but also provides value to intermediate learners with hands-on Excel activities.
Q2: What tools/software are used?
A: Mainly Microsoft Excel. No other paid tools are required.
Q3: Will I get a certificate?
A: Yes, a certificate will be issued upon successful completion.
Q4: How long is the course?
A: Approximately 8–10 hours of content, including practice time.
Q5: Is there instructor support?
A: Yes, via discussion forums or direct messages (for platform-based learners).
Course Curriculum
Module 1: Introduction to Budgeting and Forecasting
Purpose and Importance of Budgeting
Key Financial Planning Terms
Role of Budgeting in Business Decision-Making
Module 2: Types of Budgets
Operational Budgets and Their Components
Capital and Cash Budgets Explained
Static vs Flexible Budgets: When to Use Each
Module 3: Forecasting Techniques
Qualitative vs Quantitative Forecasting Methods
Trend, Seasonal, and Regression Analysis
Implementing Rolling Forecasts Effectively
Module 4: Budget Creation Process
Top-Down and Bottom-Up Budgeting Approaches
Using Excel Budget Templates Efficiently
Setting Realistic and Achievable Financial Targets
Module 5: Variance Analysis & Reforecasting
Identifying and Interpreting Budget Variances
Understanding Causes and Corrective Actions
Techniques for Updating and Reforecasting
Module 6: Strategic Budgeting & Performance Monitoring
Linking Budgets to KPIs and Business Goals
Scenario Planning and Contingency Budgeting
Building and Using Forecast Dashboards in Excel
