Overview
Once your chart of accounts is set up, you can begin entering forecast data directly into each element. How data is entered will depend on how each element has been configured. This article covers navigating the element editor, entering data and the tools available to work efficiently.
Navigating to the Element Editor
Go to Forecast > Element Settings and select the element you wish to forecast for.
The element editor is divided into two areas:
- The left panel contains the element settings
- The right panel is the element editor where forecast data is entered and outputs reviewed
White cells are editable. Light grey cells are calculated outputs and cannot be edited.
To expand or collapse your view of future forecast periods, click the arrow beside the year column.
Entering and Saving Data
Click into any white cell to begin entering your forecast. When you are ready to exit:
- Click Save and Close to save your work and return to the chart of accounts
- Click Save to save and remain in the element editor
- Click the back arrow to exit without saving
If you exit using the back arrow, any unsaved changes will be lost.
Filling Amounts Across the Grid
Right-click on any data cell to access the following fill options:
- Fill Right - copies the selected cell value to the right, either to the end of the current financial year or to the end of the forecast period
- Fill Left - copies the selected cell value to the left, either to the start of the current financial year or to the start of the forecast period
To quickly clear an element's forecast, enter 0 in a cell and use Fill Right or Fill Left.
Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up filling. For example, hold Ctrl and the left arrow key to fill right to the end of the current financial year.
Modelling Percentage and Incremental Growth
Increases or decreases the forecast value month-by-month by a percentage rate or fixed value, applied to the current financial year or full forecast period
Spreading an Annual Figure Evenly
Enter an annual budget figure in the annual column (green cell) and Castaway will automatically spread it evenly across the forecast periods remaining in that year.
This applies to forecast periods only. For example, if your financial year has 6 months of actuals and 6 months of forecast remaining, the annual figure will be spread across the 6 forecast months only.
If you need any assistance please contact our support team at: support@castawayforecasting.com