Forecasting is critical to the success of any organization.  Implementing a rolling forecast can have some very attractive benefits but comes with some potential pitfalls as well.

In this course, Matt Justice, an experienced Controller, provides some of his favorite best practices that have contributed to the success of implementing rolling forecasts in several organizations.

Although not a comprehensive list, these best practices cover many of the aspects that must be addressed when implementing a rolling forecast.  Whether you are planning for your first rolling forecast or are an experienced forecaster just looking for some fresh ideas, your organization can benefit from the implementation of some of these proven best practices.

Learning Objectives
  • Explore the benefits of implementing a rolling forecast in your organization.
  • Identify approaches to maximize the likelihood of a successful implementation.
  • Discover what to consider in selecting a forecasting software solution.
Last updated/reviewed: August 12, 2023
16 Reviews (70 ratings)

Reviews

4
Anonymous Author
Great overview course for understanding FP&A / forecasting responsibilities. If your in accounting (which I am) you don't really get insight to budgeting/forecasting, but you often get asked questions, this would help to understand why.

5
Anonymous Author
The concept of rolling forecasts was presented to me over 20 years ago. I am clueless as to why most companies do not employ the usage. I can only guess that their focus continues to be short-term. This is a good summation.

4
Member's Profile
As we are using rolling budgets more in our organization I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the entire process of developing a rolling forecast, how to select inputs, and other factors.

5
Member's Profile
Very good coverage of the rolling forecast including the why behind doing it. Specific steps to take, areas to avoid, and tools to make it successful. Well done!

4
Anonymous Author
Some of recommended best practices are very practical and easy to use. It would be better if the instructor gave more example or templet of rolling forecast.

5
Anonymous Author
Explained course material clearly and concisely. wished there was an example with numbers but, it is great course overall.

5
Member's Profile
Great overview of the best practices of a rolling forecast in a clear and concise and enjoyable presentation.

4
Anonymous Author
Content was thorough and informative. Instructor was engaging and knowledgeable on the subject matter.

5
Member's Profile
It gave me good points to consider as I move forward and good reasons to change from budgeting to this.

4
Anonymous Author
Good detailed information on implementation. Gives a starting point for pursuing a rolling forecast.

5
Member's Profile
Great presentation of several good key practices for forecasting, I enjoyed this presentation.

5
Anonymous Author
While this is a very high level overview, these were really good, practical tips.

4
Anonymous Author
This course is a good overview for those starting out in financial planning

5
Anonymous Author
I like the way this course was presented in 15 bullets essentially.

4
Member's Profile
good overview, easy to follow/digest. devil is in the detail.

4
Member's Profile
Good Course. I recommend all users to take this course

Prerequisites
Course Complexity: Intermediate

No advanced preparation or prerequisites are required for this course.

Education Provider Information
Company: Illumeo, Inc., 75 East Santa Clara St., Suite 1215, San Jose, CA 95113
Contact: For more information regarding this course, including complaint and cancellation policies, please contact our offices at (408) 400- 3993 or send an e-mail to .
Instructor for this course
Course Syllabus
INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW
  Introduction & Rolling Forecast vs. Traditional Annual Budget3:57
  Best Practice #1: Get Buy Early On1:20
  Best Practice #2: Thorough Analysis of Potential Key Drivers6:13
  Best Practice #3: Become A True Business Partner2:56
  Best Practice #4: Think Hard About Frequency of Updates and Forecast Time Horizon5:22
  Best Practice #5: Scrub Your Data2:10
  Best Practice #6 & #71:34
  Best Practice #8: Deep Understanding of Statistical Techniques and Predictive Models5:39
  Best Practice #9 & #102:52
  Best Practice #11 & #123:59
  Best Practice #13: Continuous Improvement2:17
  Best Practice #14 & #153:15
  Recap1:39
CONTINUOUS PLAY
  15 Best Practices of Implementing a Rolling Forecast43:14
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
  Slides: 15 Best Practices of Implementing a Rolling ForecastPDF
  15 Best Practices of Implementing a Rolling Forecast Glossary/IndexPDF
REVIEW AND TEST
  REVIEW QUESTIONS quiz
 FINAL EXAMexam