The explosion in computing and data processing power has led to an exponential increase in data available to the business. Paradoxically, this has led to business leaders becoming more uncertain about what to do with this data. Hence, business is scrambling to put the appropriate “analytics” capability in place. This generates a lot of friction and tension because business leaders and managers, who have been brought up in a very different world, have to scramble to learn new languages and redress their relationship with data.

Integrated business planning (IBP) is not a new concept. Yet it’s still hard to find organisations that have fully embraced it, because their efforts have been hampered by the proliferation of legacy systems and data silos. IBP is characterised by aligned planning processes and calendars, full integration of cross-functional data, and cross-functional and business collaboration.

This blog discusses the importance of improving your digital IQ, a term used by PWC for corporates but something that I believe should also be applied to individuals. Your digital IQ (your knowledge of technology and its impacts) is in effect a ‘gateway’ or an ‘enabler’ to the future role of any commercial finance/ FP&A individual.

In this Digest issue, we will explore the illusions of control in modern business and the possible benefits of data science. We will look at how you can ensure successful FP&A collaboration with all departments and we will explain the different planning methods available and their differences.