This checklist is designed to guide the finance team through the necessary steps to accurately forecast future expenses. It ensures that all relevant factors are considered and documented, leading to more reliable financial planning.
Collect data on past expenses over a defined period to identify trends and patterns.
Analyze factors that may affect future expenses, such as planned projects, inflation rates, or market changes.
Engage with department heads to gather insights on anticipated changes in their budgetary needs.
Develop multiple forecasting models using different assumptions to provide a range of possible outcomes.
Conduct a thorough review of the projections with key stakeholders to ensure accuracy and feasibility.
Clearly document the assumptions and methodologies used in the forecasting process for transparency and future reference.
Finalize the expense forecast and present it to senior management for approval before implementation.
Continuously monitor actual expenses against the forecast and adjust projections as needed to stay aligned with financial goals.