Glossary

Using Balance Sheet Simulation Dashboards to Streamline the Modelling and Forecasting Process

Written by Nils R. | Nov 24, 2021 8:00:00 AM
How can Simulation Dashboard s Drive Faster and Better Decisions? As FP&A Managers increasingly become central figures in the Modelling and Forecasting Process, they must rely on modern self-service corporate performance management (CPM) and business intelligence (BI) tools. Using interactive Simulation Dashboards like the Balance Sheet Simulation Dashboard template shown below enables them and users from the Accounting and Finance teams to experience near real time simulation that help drive faster and better decisions. Who uses Balance Sheet Simulation Dashboard s and What are Some Key Analytical Features? In today’s fast-paced business environment, FP&A Managers are under high pressure to supply end users like CFOs and analysts with timely and concise Simulation Dashboards. Companies use key features like the ones below to support their users with effective analysis that helps drive risk control and resource maximization.
  • Sliders to increase or decrease the weighting of historical data in the current year estimate
  • Comparison of simulation result with three years of history
  • Focus on Assets and Liabilities
The Balance Sheet Simulation Dashboard template can be used as a key element of the Modelling and Forecasting process: [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Example of a Balance Sheet Simulation Dashboard to Streamline the Modelling and Forecasting Process[/caption] The Balance Sheet Simulation Dashboard is a ready-to-use Simulation Dashboard from the Solver Marketplace A Brief Description of the Balance Sheet Simulation Dashboard Template Simulation Dashboards like the one seen in the image above are interactive and parameter driven and typically contain sections with simulation sliders, as well as balance sheet KPIs with tables and graphical charts. One of the important features that aid the user in the analysis process is the ability to move any of the sliders left or right to increase or decrease the weighting of that item in the simulated asset and liability estimate. Balance Sheet Simulation Dashboards are often used in conjunction with balance sheet- and cash flow input models, cash flow dashboards, and balance sheet reports. Data Integration to Transaction Systems Most organizations these days want automated and streamlined planning, reporting and analysis. However, many of the benefits described earlier rely on best of breed Corporate Performance Management (CPM) tools and/or Business Intelligence (BI) capabilities as well as data marts or data warehouses that use pre-built integrations to the organization’s ERP system. Oftentimes, they also need integrations to other key data sources like CRM, subscription systems, payroll tools, etc. Modern, cloud-based ERPs like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance (D365 Finance), Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central (D365 BC), Sage Intacct, Acumatica, Netsuite and SAP have robust APIs which allow for dynamic integrations to CPM and BI tools that are fully automated and flexible to run on a schedule or on-demand. Additional Resources to Aid with Research of Templates, CPM and BI Tools