Introduction
This program provides an in-depth overview of the “Fast Close” process, which is the ability of a modern, global organization to rapidly close the accounting books, collect, consolidate and, then, publish its financial statements. This process is widely viewed not only as an indicator of management’s abilities to execute its strategic plan in light of the availability of fast, reliable financial information, but also a proxy for good, well-implemented corporate governance. This program will also review the mounting concerns and evidence that the “Fast Close” process, after a long period of sustained improvement, is now in a period of decline, due in large part to the impact of compliance, new accounting and reporting standards and the sheer increase in the volume and complexity of financial information that needs to be consolidated and reviewed.
Pre-Requisites of Fast Closing Month-end & Year-end Accounts
Delegates should have an understanding of the construction of financial statements and be familiar with the financial closing processes of their own organizations.
Course Objective of Fast Closing Month-end & Year-end Accounts
By attending and participating in this program, delegates will be provided with an overview of the concepts and methodologies associated with the fast close process and gain insightful practical knowledge by being able to:
- Understand the importance of the fast close process on financial and operational decision-making within an organization
- Examine fast close processes, strategies and best practices as well as consideration of organizational documentation policies and procedures
- Understand the importance of departmental requirements for financial reporting as well as the need for on-going improvements to the closing process
- Provide faster and more accurate data for monthly and year-end account closings with the goal of enhancing communication with internal and external financial statement users
The Process of Fast Closing Month-end & Year-end Accounts
Delegates will gain a practical understanding and comprehension of the program topics through a combination of instruction, illustrations, group discussions and other practical, real-life examples.
Course Outline of Fast Closing Month-end & Year-end Accounts
Day One
Introduction to Fast Close Concepts
- Different types and benefits
- Steps needed to achieve a fast close
- Analyzing and reviewing the current closing process
- Redesigning the closing cycle
- Finance function stakeholders, redesign and solutions
- Examining needs of stakeholders
- Scope of problems for organizations
- Process improvement practices
- Process redesign tools and techniques
Day Two
Developing a Fast Close Strategy
- Examining closing activities and requirements
- Best practices in attaining fast close, soft close and virtual close
- Optimizing charts of accounts and journal entry requirements
- Organizing corporate resources to achieve fast close
- Identifying potential roadblocks
Day Three
Managing Change and Utilizing Technology in Redesigning and Monitoring the Finance Function
- Standardization, customization and centralization
- Reviewing paradigms and the difficulties of effecting changes
- Using technology to improve organizational redesign
Day Four
Operational Implementation of a Fast Close
- Examining the pre-close and fast close processes
- Adopting benchmark and other measurement standards, including key performance indicators
- Documenting fast close processes incorporating the utilization of checklists
Day Five
Financial Reporting and On-Going Improvements to the Closing Process
- Design and implementation of controls needed for financial reporting
- Improving the closing process and adopting improvement measurements
- Identifying management reporting criteria
- Summary of the programme
About Madrid
Madrid is a city that combines its enduring history with its cosmopolitan atmosphere to create a destination that favored amongst tourists from around the world. This is a city that is very much bursting at the seams with life and its vibrant atmosphere, cultural attractions and connection with history ensure travelers have everything they could possibly want from a European city break. At the end of a flight to Madrid, there are sites to see, picturesque streets to roam and, of course, excellent shopping opportunities to explore. Visitors can immerse themselves in Madrid's fantastic local culture, its peerless art scene and world acclaimed fine dining. In fact, there is very little that Madrid doesn't have to offer.
Things to do and places to visit in Madrid
The only problem travelers will encounter during their visit to Madrid is knowing what to do first. Sampling the mouth-watering tapas, strolling through one of the many excellent museums or even simply soaking up the atmosphere are all excellent options. Spend a sunny day wandering through the splendid squares or marvel at the intricate architecture of the churches.With so many options, flights to Madrid are great for people of any age or inclination.
When visiting Madrid, be sure to:
- See the superb collection of art is the Museo del Prado.
- Stroll down the Gran Via.
- Enjoy the atmosphere of the Plaza Mayor.
- Wander through the stunning gardens of the Parque del Buen Retiro.
- See the beautiful mansion of the Museo Lazaro Galdiano.
- Find quirky fashions in the Fuencarral market.
- Try some of the many different tapas dishes.
- Visit the statues of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza in the Plaza de Espana.
- See the breathtaking Basilica de San Francisco El Grande.
- Wander the Casa de Campo park, which is five times the size of Central Park.
- Shop in the luxury boutiques of the Golden Mile.
- Look for bargains at the El Rasto flea market.
- See Picasso's Guernica in the Reina Sofia museum.
- Snack on churros with chocolate.