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Business Intelligence for Financial Management applications

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Budgeting: Agile vs. Traditional

Budgeting: Agile vs. Traditional

Agile budgeting is transforming FP&A, enabling companies to adjust financial plans in real time. However, without reliable, well-governed data, frequent re-forecasting can lead to poor decision-making, budget overruns, and lost credibility. This article explores why speed alone isn’t enough, the financial risks of bad data in agile planning, and three key strategies to ensure budgeting agility is backed by accurate, aligned, and timely financial intelligence. By centralizing data, automating validation, and enforcing accountability, finance teams can create a fast, flexible, and financially disciplined budgeting process.

7 Priorities for SMBs in Data Analytics in 2025

7 Priorities for SMBs in Data Analytics in 2025

This article outlines 7 data analytics priorities tailored to small and mid-sized businesses. From effective governance to practical MLOps, each priority is designed to help organizations stay competitive and data-driven in the year ahead.

Controlling Microsoft Fabric Cost

Controlling Microsoft Fabric Cost

As Microsoft retires traditional Power BI Premium licenses, small and medium-sized businesses face new cost challenges with the shift to Microsoft Fabric. This article breaks down the changes and offers simple, actionable steps to control expenses—such as starting small, mixing license types, monitoring usage, and considering flexible billing options. By focusing on these strategies, SMBs can confidently navigate the transition, maintain data insights, and keep their budgets in check.

Gartner’s 2024 Four Technology Themes

Gartner’s 2024 Four Technology Themes

As Gartner unveils four major technology themes for 2024, CIOs face key decisions. From Autonomous AI to Total Experience, this article explores the potential and critical considerations for adopting these trends effectively.

Using Unstructured Data for Advanced FP&A

For FP&A professionals, unstructured data – like social media posts, customer reviews, and sensor readings – offers exciting possibilities. This article critically examines whether FP&A teams should rely on unstructured data for strategic decisions, exploring both the potential benefits and the challenges of incorporating it into their work.

Do You Qualify for Mandatory ESG Reporting in 2025?

Not sure if your company needs to start ESG reporting in 2025? This article breaks down the criteria, including company size, industry, and regional requirements, to help you determine if mandatory ESG reporting applies to your business. Learn how to get prepared and stay compliant with the latest regulations.

XBRL and ESG Reporting: Key to Compliance and Transparency

XBRL is transforming ESG reporting by providing a structured, machine-readable format for disclosures. This article explores the importance of XBRL for organizations, its role in ensuring accurate sustainability reporting, and how companies can benefit from adopting it in their ESG processes.

Understanding AI and Machine Learning in Finance

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are significantly impacting the finance industry by improving forecasting accuracy, automating routine tasks, and offering deep predictive insights. This article examines the foundational concepts of AI and ML in finance, explores their transformative impact on financial planning and analysis (FP&A), and discusses the challenges of integrating these technologies.

Understanding AI and Machine Learning in Procurement

AI and Machine Learning are transforming procurement, enabling Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs) to optimize processes, reduce costs, and manage risks effectively. This article explores their impact on procurement, discusses integration challenges, and outlines strategies for successful adoption, focusing on leveraging Microsoft Power BI.

Microsoft Fabric August 2024 Update: Key Features for Power BI Analysts

The Microsoft Fabric team regularly introduces updates that benefit various data roles, but keeping up can be overwhelming. In this article, we break down the top 5 features from the August 2024 update that stand out for Power BI data analysts, highlighting how these new tools can enhance their analysis and reporting capabilities.

ESG Reporting: Understanding Materiality

In the complex world of ESG reporting, understanding materiality is crucial. This article unpacks the concepts of financial and double materiality, explaining when and how to use them to align your business with sustainability goals. Whether you’re new to ESG or refining your strategy, this guide will help you identify what truly matters.

A Practical Approach: Using Excel and deFacto Planning for ESG Reporting

In this article, we explore how familiar tools like Excel and Power BI, when enhanced with deFacto Power Planning, can provide a practical and efficient solution for ESG reporting. Whether you’re a small company just starting out or a large enterprise with complex reporting needs, this approach allows you to meet the rigorous demands of ESG reporting while leveraging tools you already know and trust.

Controlling Microsoft Fabric Cost

Controlling Microsoft Fabric Cost

As Microsoft retires traditional Power BI Premium licenses, small and medium-sized businesses face new cost challenges with the shift to Microsoft Fabric. This article breaks down the changes and offers simple, actionable steps to control expenses—such as starting small, mixing license types, monitoring usage, and considering flexible billing options. By focusing on these strategies, SMBs can confidently navigate the transition, maintain data insights, and keep their budgets in check.

Gartner’s 2024 Four Technology Themes

Gartner’s 2024 Four Technology Themes

As Gartner unveils four major technology themes for 2024, CIOs face key decisions. From Autonomous AI to Total Experience, this article explores the potential and critical considerations for adopting these trends effectively.