Financial planning is an essential part of a long-term strategy for a company. In simple terms, financial planning is the process of creating a plan to ensure long-term viability of a company through a systematic and coordinated process. The process should be capable of integrating current and expected external factors to identify areas for improvement and areas for expansion.
In business terms, the objective will vary depending on the nature of the firm. For instance, if the firm is a manufacturing concern, its objective will be to increase its production or productivity. Similarly, if it is involved in trading, it will be to secure sufficient foreign exchange trade or to achieve specified market size.
Once the objective has been determined, the next step in the financial planning process involves setting up a structure for tracking progress on the financial goals. This includes both an objective and a target; the objective being the desired effect of increased profitability and the target being the targeted financial results over a specified time period. The two should be set so that they are not too broad and so that the process will be more effective in measuring success or failure.
Creating financial plans requires expertise and knowledge.
The process however can be made more efficient by using financial planning software – board meeting management software. The use of computerized tools facilitates efficient and effective analysis and reporting of financial information. A wide range of financial advisors provide financial planning services. These services are available through different types of organizations such as banks, brokerage houses, insurance companies, and payroll management companies. Some of these advisors specialize in particular fields such as retirement plans, investment, real estate, philanthropy, or individual accounts.
There are also companies that specialize in financial management and planning. They employ people with financial management experience to help individuals, groups, and businesses meet their financial objectives. A number of these companies deal with global projects such as wealth enhancement and retirement strategies. Some focus on specific sectors such as technology, financial services, or communications. The products and services of these companies may be well suited to meeting a specific individual’s financial management objectives, whereas some specialize in general strategic and planning applications.
Another option is for an organization to take control of its own financial planning processes.
This may involve hiring a company that specializes in financial management to implement and maintain an effective plan. This alternative is most often preferred when objectives and targets are defined in advance since the company can then develop relevant strategies to meet these objectives.
One additional step to take to achieve financial planning objectives is to decide what resources the planner will use. He or she will need to determine how much of the total funds will go for income, how much for assets, and how much for liabilities. The financial planner should identify appropriate risk controls to mitigate against undesirable outcomes. Finally, the planner must develop a plan for his or her effective monitoring of the plan’s progress. This process should include regular meetings with the key stakeholders to ensure that objectives are being met.
Financial advisors can also work closely with their own personal finance team to help them devise personal finance plans. In this scenario, the financial planner works with their finance team to achieve their financial goals. In this case, the financial advisors may work with accountants, bankers, and other financial advisors.