Performance Management and Strategic Planning in Finance

via Coursera

Go to class Write review

Details

Go to class

Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Certificate Available
Effort

8 weeks, 1 hour a week
Sessions

Self-Paced
Level

Intermediate
Subtitles

English

Found in

Part of

Financial Planning & Analysis and Performance Management

Overview

AI, Data Science & Cloud Certificates from Google, IBM & Meta — 40% Off

One plan covers every Professional Certificate on Coursera. 40% off your first 3 months — limited time.

Unlock All Certificates

This course explores essential strategies in business performance management and strategic planning, focusing on key metrics and long-term projections. Professionals across various industries will find these skills crucial to make informed financial decisions and lead their organizations effectively. Learners will gain insights into designing dashboards, using key performance indicators (KPIs), and institutionalizing performance management practices to measure and drive what matters most to businesses. Practical examples will demonstrate how these tools translate into actionable business plans. The course stands out by integrating theoretical foundations with real-world case studies, making complex concepts more applicable in daily financial management. The focus is on not just understanding theory, but how it can drive business success in an ever-changing marketplace. This course is ideal for financial analysts, planners, and professionals in managerial positions looking to enhance their understanding of strategic planning, budgeting, and performance measurement. It requires basic knowledge of business operations and finance. This course is part two of a three-course Specialization designed to provide a comprehensive learning pathway in this subject area. While it delivers standalone value and practical skills, learners seeking a more integrated and in-depth progression may benefit from completing the full Specialization.

Syllabus

Business Performance Management

This module introduces the principles of business performance management, guiding learners through the selection of effective KPIs, the design of insightful dashboards, and the measurement of both tangible and intangible business outcomes. Learners will also explore frameworks for monitoring organizational progress and linking value creation to key business processes.

Dashboards and Key Performance Indicators

This module guides learners through the process of selecting meaningful key performance indicators (KPIs) and designing effective dashboards that align with organizational goals. Learners will discover how to ensure relevance, context, and clarity in performance measurement and data visualization for better decision-making.

Institutionalizing Performance Management

This module guides learners through the essential steps for embedding performance management within an organization, from securing executive buy-in to integrating with existing management processes. Learners will also discover how to periodically review and refine key performance indicators and dashboards to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

Measuring and Driving What's Important

This module examines the challenges and strategies for measuring and enhancing innovation, agility, and human capital within organizations. Learners will explore key performance indicators beyond traditional financial metrics and discover tools to assess and drive organizational adaptability and employee engagement.

The External View

This module explores how organizations can leverage external market analysis, competitor insights, and industry benchmarks to guide strategic decisions. Learners will discover methods for gathering and interpreting external data to align business objectives with market opportunities and threats. Practical benchmarking techniques are introduced to evaluate and improve organizational performance.

Business Projections and Plans

This module explores the evolution of budgeting practices and their impact on contemporary business planning. Learners will discover best practices for creating financial projections and understand the inherent uncertainties involved in forecasting. The module also covers strategies for evaluating and improving the reliability of financial projections.

Budgets, Operating Plans, and Forecasts

This module explores the differences between traditional budgets and operating plans, highlighting their respective roles in organizational planning. Learners will discover strategies for creating dynamic forecasts, monitoring key business assumptions, and developing comprehensive financial outlooks using practical tools like Excel. By the end, participants will be equipped to implement effective financial planning processes aligned with strategic objectives.

Long-Term Projections

This module explores the unique challenges and methodologies involved in creating long-term financial projections. Learners will examine key performance drivers, strategic scenario planning, and the assessment of capital requirements necessary for extended forecasting. By the end, participants will be equipped to support informed decision-making for multi-year business planning.