As businesses prepare for fall budget planning, many struggle with processes that fail to deliver results. The good news? There are proven ways to create a strong annual budget that actually works. Here are five strategies to consider.
1. Clean Up Your Data
Many companies simply add a percentage increase to last year's numbers, but this oversimplified approach doesn't work in today's volatile economy. While historical data is a good starting point, remember that some costs are fixed and assets have capacity limits.
The solution is data optimization—refining how you collect, store, and apply information. Remove duplicates, correct errors, and standardize formats to strengthen your budget's accuracy.
2. Get Everyone Involved
Don't limit budgeting to just your accounting department. Your sales team knows revenue projections best, while operations managers understand staffing needs and equipment costs.
Broad participation also increases employee engagement and improves your chances of hitting budget targets.
3. Make Your Budget Believable
Employees lose motivation when budgets seem impossible to achieve. After repeated failures, they'll start ignoring budgets altogether.
"Sell" your strong annual budget to staff by clearly explaining the rationale behind targets. Consider tying bonuses to specific achievements to encourage buy-in.
4. Watch Cash Flow Like a Hawk
Revenue forecasts mean nothing if cash flow problems derail your plans. Slow-paying customers, unexpected costs, or uncollectible accounts can create serious shortfalls.
Monitor cash flow weekly or monthly, and have contingency plans ready. Options include owner capital contributions, credit lines, consignment purchasing, or adjusted payment terms.
5. Get an Outside Perspective
Many budgets fail because of "we've always done it this way" thinking. An objective opinion can reveal blind spots in your process.
Consider working with financial experts who can help you analyze historical data, forecast performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and integrate tax planning into your strong annual budget strategy.
SECURITIES AND ADVISORY DISCLOSURE:
Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. Fee based planning offered through SDM Advisors, LLC. Third party money management offered through Valmark Advisers, Inc a SEC registered investment advisor. 130 Springside Drive, Suite 300, Akron, Ohio 44333-2431. 1-800-765-5201. SDM Advisors, LLC is a separate entity from Valmark Securities Inc. and Valmark Advisers, Inc. Form CRS Link
DISCLAIMER:
This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, accounting, legal or tax advice. The services of an appropriate professional should be sought regarding your individual situation.
HYPOTHETICAL DISCLOSURE:
The examples given are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only.
