Research for this paper focused on delving deeper into the most mature level – Level 5, Leading State. The purpose was to provide a road map for FP&A Intelligent Transformation that guides departments in how best they can serve their organisations.

This paper covers the findings of our sixth annual FP&A Trends Survey, where we share the trends and challenges facing FP&A departments around the world. The survey was performed at a time where organisations were looking to recover from the pandemic when many were trying to figure out how to operate in a changed business world.

In times of uncertainty, the failings of systems and measures are brought sharply into focus. Managing profitability often requires a complete re-think of how an organisation plans and the supporting systems that can help sustain profits in both the short and long term. That’s the subject of this paper.

xP&A is more than an attempt to ‘fix’ the planning process. It is a complete transformation of the FP&A function to continually challenge the status quo, to educate, shape and influence management decisions on how the organization achieves its goals.

Scenario management plays a vital role in a world of irrelevant budgets and inaccurate forecasts. 

This paper, based on our interviews with 25 top FP&A practitioners and thought leaders along with case studies from the largest global network of FP&A people, captures the best practices and new ideas coming out of this fast-growing area.

In this paper, we will explore these different areas to explain what they are, how they have benefited other organisations and the steps an organisation can take in making the transition.

The impact of the FP&A storyteller reaches far beyond the boundaries of traditional finance. They work with every part of the business to present insights. How does a storyteller use their skill to drive action? How can the storyteller leave a lasting impression with stakeholders?

This paper is a result of that research, looking specifically at how, when combined with human intelligence, AI can transform the role of FP&A.

So how should FP&A adapt to this New Normal?

There has never been a better time to start exploring predictive analytics given that the business world we live in requires a radical change from traditional planning.

This research paper supports FP&A leaders in progressively improving their FP&A maturity.

The result is this paper that covers the elements crucial for any organisation approaching AI or ML for the first time including challenges, methods and key success factors.

As Einstein said, “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.”  This survey we believe offers hope, insight, and a much-needed reality check on where FP&A is today. 

In this uncertain, technology-driven world, we conducted a survey of global FP&A professionals to assess whether the work they do and the skill sets they employ are ‘good enough’.

How is technology empowering Finance teams?

How are FP&A teams delivering strategic value in today’s world?