Spreadsheet software has transformed the work done by accountants in many ways including making it possible to build elaborate financial models for evaluating real world situations. There tends to be a lack of standards for financial modelling in public sector organisations so each accountant would approach creating a financial model in their own (self-taught, probably) way. The most significant problems with this sort of approach are:
This course will introduce you to a set of straightforward principles you can use in any financial models you build. Whether you work in Excel, Google Sheets, Numbers or an Open Office spreadsheet application, by completing this course you will:
And, if you're a manager of a finance team you can use this knowledge to set financial modelling standards for your team.
"His experience working [in the] public sector as an accountant and auditor gives an insight into managing public money. He's creative! His Powerpoint presentation is fantastic!"
- MPA student, University of Nottingham
Gary Bandy is a Chartered Public Finance Accountant with over 30 years' experience of public financial management. His career has included roles in accounting, audit and senior management. He has been an independent consultant since 2005 and in that time he has developed into a very good teacher, in-person and online. He is the convenor of a postgraduate public sector financial management course at the University of Nottingham.
His first book, Financial Management and Accounting in the Public Sector, was described as “an innovative and wonderful addition to the literature of public sector management.” His new book, International Public Financial Management: Essentials of Public Sector Accounting was published by Routledge/CIPFA at the end of 2018.
"This course was very learner friendly while providing the scope needed to tackle fundamental issues in public finance. It should be required reading not only for public managers but for the politicians as well."
- S.K., Open University online course student