Financial planning and analysis (FP&A) is critical to organizational success. It provides decision-makers with the necessary guidance to allocate resources efficiently and make informed choices. Despite the advancements in technology and the abundance of available data, several challenges associated with FP&A must be addressed.

Here are 4 such major FP&A challenges:

1. Seemingly connected processes

In today's globalized workforce environment, organizations have embraced the hybrid working model, making collaboration and execution of work easier. However, when it comes to financial planning and analysis, challenges arise. 

FP&A activities like budgeting and forecasting often reveal that processes are disconnected, and communication chains are broken, which can negatively affect the organisation's overall performance. 

FP&A plays a crucial role in linking priority execution with resource allocation. Hence, seamless processes should be in place to enable entities and times to collaborate seamlessly and deliver necessary items. Continuous fine-tuning of the process is necessary to ensure a seamless flow of data across entities. 

2. Data inaccuracies

60% of all the “all-encompassing data strategy” fails according to Gartner. Out of this data, only 12% of all the data is ever analysed. 

Data accuracy is a major challenge in financial planning and analysis (FP&A). Accurate and reliable data is critical to creating trustworthy forecasts and making informed decisions. Inaccurate data can lead to flawed forecasts, missed opportunities, and increased risk.

Data inaccuracy can occur due to several reasons, such as a human error in data entry, inconsistencies in data sources, and changes in data definitions. In addition, companies may have data stored in multiple systems, which can lead to discrepancies and errors during data consolidation.

Moreover, with the increasing amount of data available, it can be challenging to identify relevant data and ensure that it is accurate. It is important for FP&A professionals to have access to quality data and the ability to verify its accuracy before using it in forecasting and analysis.

3. Legacy Systems 

In a study conducted by IDG, only 7% of companies have implemented a digital transformation, this means many are still stuck to their legacy systems.  

Legacy systems used for financial planning and analysis (FP&A) present various challenges. One challenge is inflexibility as these systems may not integrate with other systems or handle new technologies, slowing down FP&A processes. Another challenge is data integrity, legacy systems lack proper security protocols, audit trails and governance, making it hard to ensure data accuracy and compliance.

Additionally, they require significant resources to maintain, support and migrate to newer systems, posing a financial burden for organizations. Finally, legacy systems may have outdated and inefficient processes that impede FP&A operations and responsiveness to changing business needs.

4. Change Management

Change management can present a major challenge for organizations. As companies evolve, strategy, structure, or processes may require adjustments to the FP&A function. Additionally, changes in the business environment, market conditions, technology, and management can impact forecasting accuracy, data quality, talent management, and decision-making, which can negatively affect the financial health of the organization.

However, responding to a change can be difficult and often slow due to inefficient processes riddled with bottlenecks and employee resistance. FP&A teams need to establish effective change management practices and develop relevant skills to provide accurate financial insights in an uncertain business environment.

In conclusion, financial planning and analysis (FP&A) is crucial for organizational success, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. FP&A leaders must be aware of these challenges and address them to ensure accurate financial insights, informed decision-making, and efficient resource allocation. 

From seemingly disconnected processes to data inaccuracies, legacy systems, and change management, each challenge must be tackled with an appropriate strategy. By implementing effective change management practices, developing relevant skills, and ensuring data accuracy and system flexibility, FP&A teams can adapt to an ever-changing business environment and provide the necessary support for organizational success.