Accounting For Planning and Control

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Accounting For Planning and Control

Published by: Anu Poudeli

Published date: 11 Jul 2023

Accounting For Planning and Control

Accounting for planning and control is a critical component of running a company or organization. It entails making informed decisions, setting goals, and monitoring performance using financial data and analysis.

Here are some essential themes and concepts linked to planning and control accounting:

1. Budgeting : Budgeting is an essential component of planning and control. It is developing a financial plan for a specified time period, usually a year, outlining predicted revenues, expenses, and cash flows. Budgets serve as a standard for evaluating performance and assisting management in allocating resources wisely.

2. Variance Analysis : Variance analysis is the process of comparing actual financial results to budgeted figures. It aids in determining the causes of deviations and enables management to take remedial action. Variances can be positive (real results are better than expected) or negative (actual results are worse than expected).

3.KPIs (Key Performance Indicators): KPIs are quantitative measurements that are used to measure and assess performance. They can be monetary (for example, sales growth or profit margin) or non-monetary (for example, customer pleasure or employee productivity). KPIs provide insight into organizational goal achievement and assist decision-making.


4. Cost Accounting : Cost accounting is concerned with determining the cost of producing goods or services. It entails recording and assessing a variety of expenditures, including direct materials, direct labor, and overhead. Cost accounting provides useful data for price decisions, cost control, and budgeting.

5. Performance Measurement : Performance measurement entails assessing the performance of individuals, divisions, or the entire company. Financial ratios and measures such as return on investment (ROI), earnings per share (EPS), and gross profit margin are frequently included. Performance evaluation aids in determining efficiency, effectiveness, and overall financial health.

6. Management Reporting : Management reporting is intended to give important financial information to support decision-making. Financial statements (e.g., income statement, balance sheet) as well as extensive analysis, predictions, and explanations of financial performance are often included in these reports. Effective planning and control require clear and unambiguous reporting.

7.Break-Even Analysis: A break-even analysis determines the amount of sales required to cover all costs and create a profit of zero. It pinpoints the moment where total revenues equal entire costs. Break-even analysis can help you define sales goals, make pricing decisions, and evaluate the impact of cost structure changes.

8.Cash Flow Management: Cash flow management is the monitoring and control of an organization's cash inflows and outflows. It ensures that there is enough cash on hand to meet obligations and fund operations. Forecasting and analyzing financial flows can help you anticipate potential cash shortages or surpluses.


9. Capital Budgeting : Capital budgeting is concerned with analyzing and selecting long-term investment projects. It entails calculating the cash flows from potential investments and determining their viability and profitability.Capital budgeting employs techniques such as net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and payback period.

10. Performance Evaluation : Performance evaluation entails measuring the performance of individuals or departments in relation to predetermined goals and targets. Formal performance reviews, feedback sessions, and performance-based rewards may be included. Performance evaluation promotes continual improvement and helps to connect individual efforts with company goals.


Accounting for planning and control is a dynamic process that assists businesses in setting goals, effectively allocating resources, and monitoring progress toward those goals. Managers can make informed judgments and take proactive efforts to ensure organizational performance by leveraging financial information and analysis.