Business plans
We regularly help business managers with preparation of business plans. We provide added value beyond the traditional number-crunching role performed by accountants.
Our business plan services include:
- advice regarding the content of a business plan
- assistance on the preparation of a business plan based on provided information
- production of a set of illustrative financial projections
- independent validation of a business plan
Click below to find out more about:
Business plan validation
Many spreadsheets:
- contain errors
- apply assumptions which are inconsistent with other data
However, the success of capital transactions is often crucially dependent on robust financial projections.
Financial institutions and regulators often require independent assurance regarding the robustness of financial projections and we have experienced staff who can provide this assurance.
Our approach
We have developed a methodology which is scalable depending on the level of assurance required. This may include:
- business plan narrative consistent with underlying projections
- compilation of the financial projections on the basis of the principal assumptions
- key formulae and calculations in the model are logical and prepared on a consistent basis
- key risk areas which might prevent the projections being achieved
- reasonableness of the principal assumptions
- independent verification of the assumptions
- sensitivity of the projections to changes in assumptions
- comparison of results from an independent financial model
Our reviews often make use of both existing Microsoft tools and third party products. These demonstrate how formulae have been copied, improve navigation between precedent and dependent cells, and detect certain common errors. We can also undertake audits of models developed in other tools, such as Brixx.
Our experience
We:
- validate business plans for financial institutions including clearing banks and regulators such as the Financial Services Authority and the Housing Corporation
- report on a range of transactions varying from small to £500+ million
- involve senior staff who are qualified accountants and themselves experienced model-builders
- include senior staff who have good awareness regarding risks to be mitigated in financial models
Contact details
For further details on any of our business plan validation services:
email: James Riddiough
tel: 202 7131 4517
email: Roland Brook
tel: 020 7131 4173
Business plan modelling
Many spreadsheets evolve over time without well structured design, no integrity checks, and are poorly documented. Making a relatively simple change can often take a long time, result in errors, and/or have unexpected consequences.
We have experienced staff who build robust and flexible models which can meet the needs of different users whether management, financiers or professional advisers.
We usually develop models in Microsoft Excel, however we also have the knowledge to use other specialist products, including Brixx, particularly relevant for the property and housing association sector.
Our approach to business plan modelling
Development of business plan models usually involves the following steps:
- familiarisation – review of any relevant available data and/or existing model
- kick-off meeting – agreement regarding new model inputs, outputs, calculations, potential model sensitivities, and project timetable
- model outline – design and agreement regarding structure for input, processing and output sheets
- model preparation – detailed model development including internal integrity checks; outline documentation; initial checks using test data
- acceptance testing – model handover for review and detailed testing; appropriate amendments and then final version of the model
How we can help you
Wherever possible, to transfer the ability to use the models to client staff, so they:
- obtain maximum benefit from knowledge and skills
- can use the tools and make changes without always having to refer back to us in future
Our experience
Our modelling team are qualified accountants and experienced at modelling in a range of different business sectors. These include:
- banking and insurance services
- e-business
- energy
- housing association
- PFI
- professional practices
- property development
- public sector
Our models have often formed the basis of working capital statements in public offer documents, and have been subject to review or audit by financiers and/or other firms of accountants.
Contact details
Further details on any of our business plan modelling services:
email: James Riddiough
tel: 202 7131 4517
email: Roland Brook
tel: 020 7131 4173
