FP&A function is changing rapidly together with our world. xP&A means “Extended Planning & Analysis” and is now slowly taking place of the traditional FP&A. FP&A Business Partnering Maturity Model as below is showing us three stages of different aspects of core FP&A competencies. xP&A is covered under the "Leading State" column. 

In finance, we’re constantly chasing various financial metrics. But focusing on a narrow set of metrics often causes problems. For example, a Market Share growth strategy sounds great, but it often forces you to discount price or significantly increasing acquisition costs. 

As a result, the strategic outcome is often short-lived and can even result in decreased financial performance. What can be done to prevent bad strategy and why are we so surprised each and every time we repeat these same strategic mistakes?

Every month the Managing Director or Country Manager has to report the business results to the CEO or internal board. Depending on the corporate structure, there are different narrative reports, each with a different focus. This defines the role of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) and the information that needs to be collected for future growth. Two opposite cases will make the same point.

In this article, we will move to the bottom line of P&L considering how finance can guide management in resource allocation and drive business profitability.