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

Operational Budgets and Their Components

Capital and Cash Budgets Explained

Static vs Flexible Budgets: When to Use Each

Qualitative vs Quantitative Forecasting Methods

Trend, Seasonal, and Regression Analysis

Implementing Rolling Forecasts Effectively

Top-Down and Bottom-Up Budgeting Approaches

Using Excel Budget Templates Efficiently

Setting Realistic and Achievable Financial Targets

Identifying and Interpreting Budget Variances

Understanding Causes and Corrective Actions

Techniques for Updating and Reforecasting

Linking Budgets to KPIs and Business Goals

Scenario Planning and Contingency Budgeting

Building and Using Forecast Dashboards in Excel

Budgeting and Forecasting

£25

Certificate

Yes

Unit

20

Quiz

2