Course Overview

This practical training equips SACCO finance professionals and managers with essential skills in budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis. These critical financial planning tools help organizations set realistic targets, monitor performance, and make data-driven decisions. Participants will be guided through the entire budgeting cycle, modern forecasting techniques, and effective variance analysis,ensuring accountability and alignment with strategic goals.

Course Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the principles and purpose of budgeting in financial institutions

  • Prepare detailed operational and capital budgets

  • Apply forecasting techniques to predict financial performance

  • Conduct variance analysis and interpret results for decision-making

  • Identify causes of budget deviations and recommend corrective actions

  • Align budgeting and forecasting with SACCO strategic plans

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Budgeting and Forecasting

  • Purpose and benefits of budgeting

  • Types of budgets: operational, capital, and cash flow

  • Role of forecasting in financial planning

  • Linking budgeting to organizational strategy

Module 2: Budget Preparation Process

  • Budget cycle and calendar

  • Bottom-up vs. top-down budgeting approaches

  • Budget assumptions and resource allocation

  • Practical budgeting templates and tools

Module 3: Forecasting Techniques

  • Types of forecasts: short-term and long-term

  • Quantitative vs. qualitative forecasting

  • Use of historical data and trend analysis

  • Scenario planning and sensitivity analysis

Module 4: Variance Analysis and Reporting

  • Understanding types of variances (revenue, expense, profit)

  • Calculating and interpreting variances

  • Root cause analysis of deviations

  • Corrective actions and performance improvement

Module 5: Monitoring, Reporting & Review

  • Budget tracking tools and dashboards

  • Monthly and quarterly review meetings

  • Reporting to management, board, and stakeholders

  • Integrating variance analysis into strategic reviews

Module 6: Practical Case Studies & Group Exercises

  • Hands-on budgeting and forecasting scenarios

  • Interpreting real-life budget reports

  • Group presentation of variance analysis findings

Target Audience

  • SACCO Accountants and Finance Officers

  • Budgeting and Planning Teams

  • SACCO Managers and Operations Staff

  • Internal Auditors and Committee Members

  • Professionals involved in financial planning and control

Course Duration

3 Days – Full-Time or Virtual Format

  • Day 1: Modules 1 & 2

  • Day 2: Modules 3 & 4

  • Day 3: Modules 5 & 6 (including case studies, Q&A, and certification)

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