AI Finance Prompts

**Role:** You are a senior financial controller specializing in corporate budgeting and financial planning for [business_type] organizations. **Task:** Create a budget template for the business described below. **Input:** - Business type: [business_type] - Planning horizon: [time_period] - Department structure: [department_structure] **Output format:** ### Budget Structure Organize into these sections, one table per section: 1. **Revenue streams** -- itemized by source, with columns: Budget, Actual, Variance ($), Variance (%) 2. **Fixed costs** -- itemized by category, same column structure 3. **Variable costs** -- itemized by category, same column structure 4. **Capital expenditures** -- itemized by item, same column structure Organize all sections by [department_structure]. ### Summary Calculations - Total revenue - Total expenses (fixed + variable + CapEx) - Net operating income - Key ratios: gross margin (%), operating margin (%), CapEx as % of revenue ### Variance Analysis Rules List conditional formatting thresholds for flagging items as green (within 5%), amber (5-10% variance), or red (>10% variance). ### Notes Template Provide a structured notes section requiring an explanation for every variance exceeding 10%. **Scope:** - In scope: budget template structure with revenue, costs, CapEx sections, summary calculations, variance rules, and notes - Out of scope: actual financial data entry, budget approval workflow, forecasting models, financial software implementation **Constraints:** - All percentages to 1 decimal place; all currency amounts to the nearest whole unit - Do NOT invent sample revenue or cost figures -- use placeholder labels only - Do NOT add sections beyond what is specified above - Align the template to [time_period] with appropriate period columns (monthly for up to 1 year, quarterly for longer) - Include disclaimer: "This template is for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified financial professional for budgeting decisions."

**Role:** You are a senior financial planning and analysis (FP&A) manager with expertise in [forecasting_method] forecasting methodologies. **Task:** Build a financial forecasting model for the company described below. **Input:** - Company: [company_name] - Forecast period: [forecast_period] - Forecasting method: [forecasting_method] - Historical data sources: [data_sources] - Growth assumptions: [growth_assumptions] - Market conditions: [market_conditions] **Output format:** ### Assumptions Register List every assumption used in the model: | # | Assumption | Value/Range | Source | Confidence (H/M/L) | [VERIFY] flag | Mark any assumption lacking hard data with [VERIFY]. ### Forecast Model **Revenue forecast:** Period-by-period projection table based on [forecasting_method]. **Expense forecast:** Period-by-period projection table: fixed costs, variable costs, one-time items. **Cash flow forecast:** Period-by-period: operating cash flow, investing, financing, net change. **Balance sheet projections:** Key line items per period: total assets, total liabilities, equity. ### Scenario Analysis | Metric | Worst case | Base case | Best case | For each scenario: state probability weighting and the key variable changes driving it. Probabilities must sum to 100%. ### Sensitivity Table | Variable changed | -20% impact | +20% impact | Most sensitive metric | Test 3-5 key variables from [growth_assumptions] and [market_conditions]. **Scope:** - In scope: financial forecast model with assumptions register, projections, scenario analysis, and sensitivity table - Out of scope: historical data collection, accounting system integration, board presentation, audit preparation **Constraints:** - All percentages to 1 decimal place; all currency to the nearest whole unit - Document every assumption in the Assumptions Register before using it in calculations - Flag assumptions requiring validation with [VERIFY] - Do NOT invent historical data -- label historical inputs as [from data_sources] - Do NOT present projections as guarantees -- frame as estimates based on stated assumptions - Assign explicit probability weightings to each scenario (must sum to 100%) - Include disclaimer: "These projections are for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified financial professional before making business decisions."

**Role:** You are a senior treasury analyst specializing in cash flow management and liquidity planning. **Task:** Analyze the cash flow situation for the business described below. Work through your analysis step by step to ensure thorough reasoning. **Input:** - Business: [business_name] - Analysis period: [analysis_period] **Output format:** ### Step-by-Step Analysis **Step 1: Operating Activities** Examine operating cash inflows and outflows. Identify patterns, seasonality, and trends. **Step 2: Investing Activities** Examine capital expenditures, asset purchases/sales, and investment activity. **Step 3: Financing Activities** Examine debt, equity, and dividend activity. **Step 4: Key Metrics (show formulas)** - Cash conversion cycle: formula and result, in days - Operating cash flow ratio: formula and result, to 2 decimal places - Free cash flow: formula and result, in currency to nearest whole unit **Step 5: Patterns and Risks** Identify seasonal variations, trends, and potential liquidity concerns with specific evidence from the data. ### Recommendations 3-5 prioritized, actionable recommendations for improving cash flow management. Each must reference a specific finding from the analysis above. ### Red Flags List any findings requiring immediate attention, with severity level: Critical / Warning / Monitor. **Scope:** - In scope: step-by-step cash flow analysis covering operating, investing, and financing activities with metrics and recommendations - Out of scope: cash management system implementation, banking relationship strategy, working capital financing, treasury operations **Constraints:** - Show your reasoning at each step -- do not skip to conclusions - All currency to the nearest whole unit; all ratios to 2 decimal places; all periods in days - Do NOT invent cash flow figures -- work only with data provided or clearly label estimates as [ESTIMATED] - Do NOT provide investment or financing advice -- present analysis for decision-makers - Separate facts (from data) from interpretations (your analysis) clearly - Include disclaimer: "This analysis is for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified financial professional before making cash management decisions."

**Role:** You are a senior management accountant specializing in chart-of-accounts design and [accounting_standards] compliance. **Task:** Design an expense categorization system for the organization described below. **Input:** - Organization type: [organization_type] - Accounting standards: [accounting_standards] - Detail level: [detail_level] - Expense types to include: [specific_expense_types] - Software platform: [software_platform] **Output format:** ### Chart of Accounts -- Expense Categories Hierarchical structure with this format: **[Top-level category number] -- [Category name]** - [Sub-category number] -- [Sub-category name] - Definition: 1 sentence - Example transactions: 2-3 examples - CapEx or OpEx: classification with brief rationale Repeat for each category at [detail_level] granularity. ### Ambiguous Expense Rules | Expense description | Correct category | Reasoning | List 5-10 commonly misclassified expenses with clear guidance. ### CapEx vs OpEx Decision Guide A simple decision tree or checklist for classifying capital vs operating expenses. ### Platform Compatibility Notes Specific guidance for implementing this structure in [software_platform]. **Scope:** - In scope: hierarchical expense chart of accounts, ambiguous expense rules, CapEx vs OpEx guide, and platform compatibility notes - Out of scope: full chart of accounts (revenue, assets, liabilities), accounting software migration, tax classification, audit preparation **Constraints:** - Align all categories with [accounting_standards] - Do NOT invent expense types beyond [specific_expense_types] -- use those as the basis - Do NOT include revenue or asset accounts -- expense categories only - Every sub-category must have a definition and at least 2 example transactions - Use numbering conventions compatible with [software_platform] - Include disclaimer: "This categorization system is for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified accountant to ensure compliance with [accounting_standards]."

**Role:** You are a billing operations specialist with expertise in invoice design, tax compliance, and payment processing. **Task:** Create a professional invoice template for the company described below. **Input:** - Company: [company_name] - Client type: [client_type] - Service types: [service_types] - Payment terms: [payment_conditions] - Applicable taxes: [tax_types] - Accepted payment methods: [payment_methods] - Regulatory requirements: [regulatory_requirements] **Output format:** ### Invoice Header - Company name, logo placeholder, and contact information - Invoice number format: recommended numbering convention - Invoice date, due date, payment terms: [payment_conditions] - Client billing information block ### Line Items Table | # | Description | Quantity | Unit Price | Tax Rate | Line Total | Template rows for [service_types]. ### Calculations Section - Subtotal - Discount (if applicable): line with percentage and amount - [tax_types] breakdown: separate line per tax type with rate and amount - **Total due** ### Payment Instructions Clear instructions for each of [payment_methods], including required details like account numbers and references. ### Terms and Policies - Payment terms: [payment_conditions] - Late payment policy: interest rate / fee structure - Dispute process: how to raise invoice queries ### Legal and Compliance Required disclaimers and legal text per [regulatory_requirements]. **Scope:** - In scope: invoice template with header, line items, calculations, payment instructions, terms, and legal compliance sections - Out of scope: invoicing software setup, payment gateway integration, accounts receivable management, tax filing **Constraints:** - All currency amounts to 2 decimal places (standard invoicing precision) - Do NOT invent prices, tax rates, or amounts -- use placeholders - Do NOT omit any element required by [regulatory_requirements] - Ensure the template works for [client_type] -- adjust formality and detail level accordingly - Include unique invoice number and payment reference on every page - Include disclaimer: "This template is for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified accountant to ensure compliance with local invoicing regulations."

**Role:** You are a senior pricing strategist with expertise in [pricing_strategy] methodologies and competitive market analysis. **Task:** Develop a pricing model for the product or service described below. **Input:** - Product/service: [product_or_service] - Target segment: [customer_segment] - Cost components: [cost_components] - Pricing strategy: [pricing_strategy] - Competitor data: [market_research] - Target margin: [target_margin] **Output format:** ### Assumptions List every assumption about costs, market conditions, and customer behavior. Flag uncertain assumptions with [VERIFY]. ### Cost Analysis | Cost component | Fixed/Variable | Per-unit cost | % of total cost | Itemize [cost_components]. - **Total unit cost:** sum - **Minimum viable price (breakeven):** total unit cost at 0% margin ### Pricing Recommendation - **Recommended price:** amount, with rationale tied to [pricing_strategy] - **Gross margin at recommended price:** percentage to 1 decimal place - **Comparison to target margin:** [target_margin] vs. projected margin ### Tiered Pricing Options | Tier | Features/Volume | Price | Margin | 2-4 tiers with clear differentiation and justification. ### Competitive Positioning | Competitor | Price | Positioning | Your advantage | Based on [market_research]. ### Revenue Impact Estimate | Scenario | Price point | Est. volume | Est. revenue | Margin | 3 scenarios: conservative, base, optimistic. **Scope:** - In scope: cost analysis, pricing recommendation, tiered options, competitive positioning, and revenue impact scenarios - Out of scope: market research execution, customer willingness-to-pay studies, pricing software implementation, promotional strategy **Constraints:** - All percentages to 1 decimal place; all currency to 2 decimal places - Document every assumption in the Assumptions section before using it - Flag assumptions requiring validation with [VERIFY] - Do NOT invent competitor prices not derived from [market_research] - Do NOT present pricing recommendations as guarantees -- frame as estimates based on stated assumptions - Justify every tier -- no arbitrary price points - Include disclaimer: "This pricing model is for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified financial professional before setting prices."

**Role:** You are a senior financial analyst with expertise in investment evaluation and capital budgeting. **Task:** Calculate ROI metrics for the investment described below. Show all calculations step by step to ensure accuracy. **Input:** - Project: [investment_project] - Initial investment: [investment_amount] - Time horizon: [time_horizon] - Cost categories: [cost_categories] - Benefit types: [benefit_types] - Discount rate: [discount_rate] **Output format:** ### Assumptions List every assumption made, with justification. Mark assumptions that require validation with [VERIFY]. ### Calculations (show work) 1. **Total costs:** itemized breakdown by year 2. **Total benefits:** itemized breakdown by year 3. **Net cash flows:** year-by-year table 4. **ROI:** formula and result, as percentage to 1 decimal place 5. **NPV:** formula and result, in currency to nearest whole unit 6. **IRR:** result as percentage to 1 decimal place 7. **Payback period:** in months or years to 1 decimal place ### Sensitivity Analysis | Variable | -20% | Base | +20% | Impact on NPV | Key variables tested. ### Executive Summary 3-5 bullet points: investment recommendation, key metrics, primary risk. **Constraints:** - Show every calculation step -- do not skip to final numbers - Use consistent currency formatting throughout (no mixing $ and USD) - All percentages to 1 decimal place, all currency to nearest whole unit - Do NOT invent specific dollar amounts for costs or benefits -- use the provided inputs only - Do NOT provide financial advice -- present analysis for decision-makers to evaluate - Flag any assumptions that significantly affect the outcome with [VERIFY] - Include disclaimer: "This analysis is for planning purposes. Consult a financial professional before making investment decisions."

**Role:** You are a senior financial analyst specializing in cost-volume-profit analysis and break-even modeling. **Task:** Conduct a break-even analysis for the business or product described below. Show all calculations step by step to ensure accuracy. **Input:** - Business/product: [business_or_product] - Fixed costs: [fixed_costs] - Variable cost per unit: [variable_costs] - Price per unit: [price_per_unit] - Key variables to test: [key_variables] **Output format:** ### Calculations (show work) 1. **Contribution margin per unit:** [price_per_unit] - [variable_costs] = result, to 2 decimal places 2. **Contribution margin ratio:** Contribution margin / price = result as percentage to 1 decimal place 3. **Break-even point (units):** [fixed_costs] / contribution margin per unit = result, rounded up to nearest whole unit 4. **Break-even point (revenue):** Break-even units x [price_per_unit] = result, to nearest whole currency unit 5. **Margin of safety:** If current/expected volume is provided: (current volume - break-even volume) / current volume = result as percentage. If not provided: state "Requires actual or projected sales volume to calculate." 6. **Operating leverage:** Contribution margin / net operating income = result to 2 decimal places. Interpret: what a 1% change in sales means for profit. ### Sensitivity Analysis | Variable | -20% | -10% | Base | +10% | +20% | Test each of [key_variables] and show impact on break-even point. ### Visual Description Describe the cost-volume-profit chart: x-axis (units), y-axis (currency), lines for total revenue, total cost, and fixed cost. Mark break-even point. ### Summary 3-4 bullet points: break-even point, margin of safety, key risk, most sensitive variable. **Scope:** - In scope: break-even calculations, sensitivity analysis, CVP chart description, and summary - Out of scope: multi-product break-even allocation, pricing strategy, demand forecasting, production planning **Constraints:** - Show every calculation step -- do not skip to final numbers - All percentages to 1 decimal place; currency to nearest whole unit; units as whole numbers - Round break-even units UP (you cannot sell a fraction of a unit) - Do NOT invent cost or revenue figures -- use the provided inputs only - Do NOT provide business advice -- present analysis for decision-makers to evaluate - Include disclaimer: "This analysis is for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified financial professional before making business decisions."

**Role:** You are a senior financial reporting manager specializing in executive-level financial communication. **Context:** This report consolidates financial performance for a reporting period into a concise executive summary. The audience is senior leadership -- they need key takeaways, not raw data. **Task:** Prepare a financial reporting summary for the organization and period described below. **Input:** - Organization: [organization_name] - Reporting period: [reporting_period] - Key performance indicators: [specific_kpis] - Comparison benchmarks: [comparison_benchmarks] **Output format:** ### Executive Summary 3-5 bullet points covering: overall financial health, revenue performance, profitability, cash position, and one forward-looking statement. ### KPI Scorecard | KPI | Actual | Target/Benchmark | Variance | Trend (up/down/flat) | One row per KPI from [specific_kpis], compared against [comparison_benchmarks]. ### Significant Variances For each variance exceeding plus or minus 5% from benchmark: - **Line item:** Actual vs Benchmark (variance %) - Root cause: 1-2 sentences - Recommended action: 1 sentence ### Income Statement Highlights Top-line summary only: revenue, COGS, gross profit, operating expenses, net income -- with period-over-period change percentage. ### Cash Position Opening balance, net change, closing balance, with 1-sentence commentary. **Scope:** - In scope: executive financial summary with KPI scorecard, variance analysis, income statement highlights, and cash position - Out of scope: full financial statement preparation, audit documentation, board presentation deck, detailed department reports **Constraints:** - All percentages to 1 decimal place; all currency to the nearest whole unit - Focus on insights and variances, not raw data reproduction -- leadership reads for decisions, not details - Do NOT include full financial statements -- this is a summary, not a restatement - Do NOT invent financial figures -- use [PLACEHOLDER] where data is needed - Flag any metric requiring urgent attention with [ACTION REQUIRED] - Keep the entire report under 600 words - Include disclaimer: "This summary is for internal planning purposes only. It does not constitute audited financial statements."

**Role:** You are a tax planning advisor with expertise in [jurisdiction] tax regulations for [entity_type] entities. **Context:** Tax planning involves jurisdiction-specific regulations that change frequently. This checklist is a starting framework -- it must be reviewed by a qualified tax professional before implementation. **Task:** Generate a tax planning checklist for the entity, jurisdiction, and tax year described below. **Input:** - Entity type: [entity_type] - Jurisdiction: [jurisdiction] - Tax year: [year] - Applicable deductions: [applicable_deductions] - Revenue/expense timing items: [revenue_expense_items] - Tax obligations: [tax_obligations] - Relevant tax codes: [relevant_tax_codes] - Tax scenarios to address: [tax_scenarios] **Output format:** ### Key Deadlines | Obligation | Deadline | Filing method | Penalty for late filing | One row per item in [tax_obligations], sorted chronologically. ### Optimization Strategies For each of [tax_scenarios]: **[Scenario name]:** - Strategy: 1-2 sentences - Applicable deductions: reference specific items from [applicable_deductions] - Timing considerations: reference [revenue_expense_items] where relevant - Regulatory basis: cite [relevant_tax_codes] section - Flag: [CONSULT PROFESSIONAL] if the strategy involves ambiguity or material risk ### Documentation Checklist | Document | Purpose | Deadline | Status placeholder | Required records and filings for [entity_type] in [jurisdiction]. ### Compliance Warnings List jurisdiction-specific rules that are commonly overlooked or recently changed, based on [relevant_tax_codes]. **Scope:** - In scope: tax planning checklist with deadlines, optimization strategies, documentation requirements, and compliance warnings - Out of scope: tax return preparation, tax software configuration, IRS/authority audit defense, international tax structuring **Constraints:** - All currency amounts to the nearest whole unit; all percentages to 1 decimal place - This is a planning framework, NOT tax advice -- flag every strategy involving material risk with [CONSULT PROFESSIONAL] - Do NOT guarantee tax savings or outcomes - Do NOT present strategies that rely on aggressive interpretations of tax law without flagging them - All deadlines must be specific to [jurisdiction] and [year] -- do not use generic dates - Mark any regulation you are uncertain about with [VERIFY WITH TAX PROFESSIONAL] - Include disclaimer: "This checklist is for planning purposes only. It does not constitute tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional in [jurisdiction] before making tax decisions."

**Role:** You are a senior investment analyst specializing in [industry_sector] with expertise in quantitative valuation and risk assessment. **Task:** Evaluate the investment opportunity described below. Show your analytical reasoning step by step to ensure rigor. **Input:** - Investment target: [investment_target] - Investor type: [investor_type] - Valuation metrics to evaluate: [valuation_metrics] - Risk categories: [risk_categories] - Industry sector: [industry_sector] **Output format:** ### Step-by-Step Analysis **Step 1: Financial Metrics** | Metric | Value | Industry benchmark | Assessment | For each metric in [valuation_metrics], show how it compares to sector norms. **Step 2: Growth and Profitability** - Revenue growth rate: value, to 1 decimal place - Profitability margins: gross, operating, net -- each to 1 decimal place - Capital efficiency: relevant ratios Interpret what the numbers mean for [investor_type]. **Step 3: Risk Assessment** | Risk category | Severity (High/Med/Low) | Likelihood | Mitigation available? | One row per item in [risk_categories]. **Step 4: Competitive Position** Assess positioning within [industry_sector]: market share, differentiation, moat -- 3-5 sentences. **Step 5: Qualitative Factors** Management quality, market trends, strategic fit for [investor_type] -- 3-5 sentences. ### Weighted Scoring Model | Factor | Weight (%) | Score (1-10) | Weighted Score | Minimum 5 factors covering financial performance, risk profile, and qualitative assessment. **Total weighted score:** sum, to 1 decimal place, out of 10. ### Recommendation **Rating:** Buy / Hold / Pass **Rationale:** 3-5 bullet points supporting the rating, referencing specific metrics and scores from above. **Scope:** - In scope: step-by-step investment analysis with financial metrics, risk assessment, competitive position, scoring model, and recommendation - Out of scope: due diligence execution, portfolio construction, transaction structuring, regulatory filing **Constraints:** - Show your reasoning at each step -- do not jump to the recommendation - All percentages to 1 decimal place; currency to nearest whole unit; scores to 1 decimal place - Weights in the scoring model must sum to 100% - Do NOT invent financial data for [investment_target] -- use provided inputs or label as [DATA NEEDED] - Do NOT provide investment advice -- present analysis for [investor_type] to evaluate - Flag any metric that could not be verified with [UNVERIFIED] - Include disclaimer: "This analysis is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice. Consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions."

**Role:** You are a senior procurement strategist specializing in vendor contract negotiations and cost optimization. **Task:** Develop a vendor negotiation strategy for the procurement described below. Reason through your strategy step by step to ensure it is grounded in evidence. **Input:** - Procurement category: [procurement_category] - Vendor: [vendor_name] - Current contract terms: [existing_terms] - Market benchmark sources: [benchmark_sources] - Key negotiation points: [key_negotiation_points] - Anticipated vendor objections: [anticipated_objections] - Desired contract changes: [desired_contract_changes] **Output format:** ### Step-by-Step Strategy Development **Step 1: Current State Assessment** Analyze [existing_terms] -- identify strengths, weaknesses, and cost-saving opportunities. 3-5 bullets. **Step 2: Market Benchmarking** | Term | Current contract | Market benchmark | Gap | Compare [existing_terms] against [benchmark_sources] for each of [key_negotiation_points]. **Step 3: BATNA (Best Alternative to Negotiated Agreement)** - Best alternative: description - Walkaway point: specific threshold for each of [key_negotiation_points] - Leverage assessment: Strong / Moderate / Weak, with reasoning **Step 4: Objection Handling** | Anticipated objection | Prepared response | Evidence/leverage | One row per item in [anticipated_objections]. **Step 5: Negotiation Tactics** For each of [desired_contract_changes]: - Opening position: your initial ask - Target: ideal outcome - Floor: minimum acceptable - Tactic: specific approach for this point ### Negotiation Timeline | Phase | Activity | Target date | Owner | Pre-negotiation, rounds of discussion, final agreement. ### Stakeholder Communication Plan Who needs to be informed, when, and what they need to approve -- 3-5 bullets. **Scope:** - In scope: negotiation strategy with current state assessment, benchmarking, BATNA, objection handling, tactics, and timeline - Out of scope: contract drafting, legal review, vendor evaluation and selection, procurement system setup **Constraints:** - Show your reasoning at each step -- do not present tactics without justification - All currency to the nearest whole unit; all percentages to 1 decimal place - Every negotiation target must be supported by evidence from [benchmark_sources] - Do NOT fabricate market benchmark data -- use [benchmark_sources] or label as [MARKET DATA NEEDED] - Do NOT include unethical or deceptive negotiation tactics - Keep the strategy actionable -- each tactic should be something the team can execute - Include disclaimer: "This strategy is for planning purposes only. Consult your legal and procurement teams before entering formal negotiations."

**Role:** You are a senior financial operations consultant specializing in cost optimization and operational efficiency. **Task:** Identify and prioritize cost reduction opportunities for the business unit described below. Work through your analysis step by step to ensure each recommendation is evidence-based. **Input:** - Business unit: [business_unit] - Annual spending: [current_spend] - Expense categories: [expense_categories] - Industry type: [industry_type] - Reduction tactics to consider: [reduction_tactics] - Savings target: [savings_target] **Output format:** ### Step-by-Step Analysis **Step 1: Spending Breakdown** | Category | Annual spend | % of total | Industry benchmark % | Gap | One row per item in [expense_categories], benchmarked against [industry_type] norms. **Step 2: Opportunity Identification** For each category with a significant gap vs. benchmark, identify the root cause and potential lever -- 1-2 sentences each. **Step 3: Initiative Prioritization** | Initiative | Est. annual savings | % of target | Feasibility (H/M/L) | Risk (H/M/L) | Time to value | One row per initiative from [reduction_tactics] plus any identified in Step 2. Sort by impact times feasibility, highest first. **Step 4: Risk Assessment** For each high-impact initiative: what could go wrong, and how to mitigate -- 1-2 sentences each. ### Implementation Roadmap | Phase | Initiatives | Timeline | Resources needed | Expected savings | Quick wins (0-3 months), medium-term (3-6 months), long-term (6-12 months). ### Progress Toward Target - Savings target: [savings_target] - Total estimated savings from all initiatives: sum - Gap remaining: difference - Assessment: On track / Requires additional initiatives / Target at risk **Scope:** - In scope: spending analysis, prioritized cost reduction initiatives, implementation roadmap, and progress tracking toward target - Out of scope: organizational restructuring, headcount reduction execution, technology procurement, change management program **Constraints:** - Show your reasoning at each step -- do not present recommendations without supporting analysis - All currency to nearest whole unit; all percentages to 1 decimal place - Do NOT invent industry benchmarks -- use [industry_type] norms or label as [BENCHMARK NEEDED] - Do NOT recommend cuts that would materially harm revenue without flagging the trade-off - Every initiative must include a risk assessment - Include change management considerations for initiatives affecting headcount or workflows - Include disclaimer: "This analysis is for planning purposes only. Consult your finance and operations leadership before implementing cost reduction initiatives."

**Role:** You are a senior revenue operations analyst with expertise in driver-based forecasting and [forecasting_methodology] modeling. **Task:** Build a revenue projection model for the company or product described below. **Input:** - Company/product: [company_or_product] - Projection period: [projection_period] - Revenue drivers: [revenue_drivers] - Historical data: [historical_data] - Market segment: [market_segment] - Growth initiatives: [growth_initiatives] - Forecasting methodology: [forecasting_methodology] - Key variables: [key_variables] - Segmentation approach: [segmentation_approach] **Output format:** ### Assumptions Register | # | Assumption | Value | Source | Confidence (H/M/L) | [VERIFY] flag | List every assumption about growth rates, retention, pricing, and market size. Flag assumptions lacking hard data with [VERIFY]. ### Revenue Driver Model For each driver in [revenue_drivers]: - Driver: name - Formula: how it contributes to revenue - Historical trend: from [historical_data] - Projected value: per period across [projection_period] ### Revenue Projections by Segment Break down by [segmentation_approach]: | Segment | Period 1 | Period 2 | ... | Total | Growth % | One row per segment, with monthly/quarterly/annual columns as appropriate for [projection_period]. ### Confidence Intervals | Period | Low estimate (10th percentile) | Base estimate | High estimate (90th percentile) | Show the range of outcomes for total revenue per period. ### Growth Initiative Impact | Initiative | Expected revenue impact | Timing | Confidence | One row per item in [growth_initiatives]. ### Summary 3-5 bullet points: total projected revenue, growth rate, key driver, biggest risk, confidence level. **Scope:** - In scope: driver-based revenue model with assumptions register, segment projections, confidence intervals, and growth initiative impact - Out of scope: expense forecasting, balance sheet projections, market research execution, sales pipeline analysis **Constraints:** - All percentages to 1 decimal place; all currency to nearest whole unit - Document every assumption in the Assumptions Register before using it in projections - Flag assumptions requiring validation with [VERIFY] - Do NOT invent historical data -- reference [historical_data] or label inputs as [DATA NEEDED] - Do NOT present projections as forecasts of certainty -- always include confidence intervals - Break down by [segmentation_approach] as specified -- do not aggregate into a single number - Include disclaimer: "These projections are for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified financial professional before making business decisions based on these estimates."

**Role:** You are a senior investor relations specialist with expertise in financial storytelling for fundraising presentations. **Context:** Investors evaluate financial sections of pitch decks for clarity, credibility, and return potential. The financials must tell a compelling story grounded in defensible assumptions. **Task:** Create the financial section of a fundraising pitch deck for the company described below. **Input:** - Company: [company_name] - Funding amount: [funding_amount] - Funding purpose: [funding_purpose] - Growth metrics to highlight: [growth_metrics] - Projection years: [projection_years] - Key KPIs: [relevant_kpis] - Market size: [market_size] - Investment thesis: [investment_thesis] **Output format:** ### Assumptions List every financial assumption underlying the projections. Flag unvalidated assumptions with [VERIFY]. ### Traction Slide Present historical performance highlighting [growth_metrics]: | Metric | Period -2 | Period -1 | Current | Growth rate | Focus on metrics that demonstrate momentum. ### Financial Projections | Line item | Year 1 | Year 2 | ... | Year [projection_years] | Include: Revenue, Cost of goods sold, Gross profit, Operating expenses, EBITDA, Net income. Show path to profitability with clear inflection point. ### Key Metrics | KPI | Current | Projected (Year [projection_years]) | One row per item in [relevant_kpis]. ### Market Opportunity - TAM: [market_size] - SAM: serviceable portion, with methodology - SOM: realistic capture, with timeline Show how [funding_amount] accelerates capture of market share. ### Use of Funds | Category | Amount | % of total | Expected outcome | Allocate [funding_amount] to specific uses aligned with [funding_purpose]. ### Return Potential 2-3 sentences connecting [investment_thesis] to projected financial outcomes and market opportunity. **Scope:** - In scope: pitch deck financial section with traction, projections, key metrics, market sizing, use of funds, and return potential - Out of scope: full pitch deck design, legal offering documents, cap table modeling, investor relationship management **Constraints:** - All percentages to 1 decimal place; all currency to nearest whole unit - Document every assumption -- investors will challenge them - Flag assumptions requiring validation with [VERIFY] - Do NOT inflate projections -- optimistic-but-defensible is the standard - Do NOT include hockey-stick projections without explaining the underlying drivers - Use of funds must sum to exactly [funding_amount] - Include disclaimer: "Forward-looking projections are estimates based on stated assumptions. Actual results may vary. This does not constitute an offer of securities."

**Role:** You are a senior business intelligence analyst specializing in financial dashboard design for executive audiences. **Task:** Design a financial KPI dashboard for the stakeholder group and organization described below. **Input:** - Stakeholder group: [stakeholder_group] - Organization: [organization_name] - Performance areas: [performance_areas] - Industry type: [industry_type] - Business stage: [business_stage] - Benchmark sources: [benchmark_sources] - Visualization types: [visualization_types] - Detail areas for drill-down: [detailed_analysis] **Output format:** ### KPI Selection | KPI | Definition | Formula | Target | Source of target | Why it matters for [stakeholder_group] | Select 8-12 KPIs appropriate for [industry_type] and [business_stage], covering [performance_areas]. ### Dashboard Layout **Top section -- At-a-glance summary:** 3-5 headline metrics with traffic-light indicators (green/amber/red). **Middle section -- Trend analysis:** For each primary KPI: recommended chart type from [visualization_types] showing actual vs. target over time. **Bottom section -- Drill-downs:** For each area in [detailed_analysis]: what additional detail is available on click/hover. ### Alert Rules | KPI | Green threshold | Amber threshold | Red threshold | Alert action | One row per KPI, with specific numeric thresholds based on [benchmark_sources]. ### KPI Dictionary For each KPI selected: - **KPI name:** 1-sentence plain-English definition, formula, data source, update frequency **Scope:** - In scope: KPI selection, dashboard layout design, alert rules, and KPI dictionary for [stakeholder_group] - Out of scope: BI tool implementation, data pipeline engineering, real-time data integration, dashboard deployment **Constraints:** - All percentages to 1 decimal place; all currency to the nearest whole unit; all ratios to 2 decimal places - All threshold values must be specific numbers, not vague (e.g., ">15%" not "good") - Do NOT include more than 12 KPIs -- dashboard overload reduces usability - Do NOT include KPIs without a clear target -- every metric needs a benchmark - Match visualization types to data type: trends use line charts, composition uses pie/bar, comparison uses bar charts - Design for [stakeholder_group] -- executives need summaries, analysts need drill-downs - Include disclaimer: "KPI targets are based on [benchmark_sources] and should be validated against organizational goals. This dashboard design is for planning purposes only."

**Role:** You are a senior credit and collections manager specializing in accounts receivable optimization and cash collection strategy. **Task:** Develop an accounts receivable management system for the company described below. **Input:** - Company: [company_name] - Customer base size: [customer_base_size] - Aging buckets: [aging_buckets] - Payment stages: [payment_stages] - Industry benchmarks: [industry_benchmarks] - Collection scenarios: [collection_scenarios] - Customer types: [customer_types] **Output format:** ### AR Aging Report Template | Customer | Invoice # | Amount | Invoice date | Due date | Aging bucket columns from [aging_buckets] | Template structure with column definitions. **DSO target:** based on [industry_benchmarks], in days. **DSO formula:** (Accounts receivable / total credit sales) x number of days. ### Collection Workflow For each stage in [payment_stages]: **Stage: [name] (Day X to Day Y)** - Action: what to do - Channel: email / phone / letter / legal - Responsible: role - Escalation trigger: when to move to next stage ### Communication Templates For each scenario in [collection_scenarios]: **[Scenario name]:** - Subject: email subject line - Body: template text with merge fields for customer name, invoice number, amount, due date -- keep under 100 words - Tone: appropriate tone for this stage ### Credit Policy Framework | Customer type | Credit limit basis | Payment terms | Review frequency | One row per item in [customer_types]. ### Performance Metrics | Metric | Formula | Target (based on [industry_benchmarks]) | Frequency | Include: DSO, Collection effectiveness index, Bad debt ratio, Aging bucket distribution, Average days delinquent. **Scope:** - In scope: AR aging template, collection workflow, communication templates, credit policy framework, and performance metrics - Out of scope: AR software implementation, customer credit scoring, debt collection agency selection, legal collections process **Constraints:** - All currency to nearest whole unit; all percentages to 1 decimal place; all time periods in days - Do NOT invent customer data or invoice amounts -- use placeholders - Do NOT include aggressive or threatening language in collection templates -- firm but professional - Communication templates must comply with fair debt collection practices - Scale the workflow complexity to [customer_base_size] -- a 50-customer business needs simpler processes than a 5,000-customer business - Include disclaimer: "This AR management framework is for planning purposes only. Consult your legal team regarding debt collection practices in your jurisdiction."

**Role:** You are a senior profitability analyst specializing in margin analysis, cost optimization, and pricing strategy. **Task:** Analyze and optimize profit margins for the product or service line described below. Show all calculations step by step to ensure accuracy. **Input:** - Product/service line: [product_or_service_line] - Current margin: [current_margin] - Cost components: [cost_categories] - Pricing factors: [pricing_factors] - Improvement areas: [improvement_areas] - Strategic options to evaluate: [strategic_options] **Output format:** ### Calculations (show work) **Step 1: Current Margin Breakdown** | Cost component | Amount | % of revenue | Category (fixed/variable) | One row per item in [cost_categories]. - Total cost of revenue: sum - Gross margin: [current_margin] -- verify by calculating revenue minus total costs divided by revenue - Contribution margin: revenue minus variable costs only, to 1 decimal place **Step 2: Improvement Opportunity Analysis** For each area in [improvement_areas]: - Current state: describe - Potential improvement: quantify, with calculation showing impact on margin - Margin impact: +X.X percentage points - Implementation complexity: High / Medium / Low **Step 3: Strategic Option Evaluation** | Option | Revenue impact | Cost impact | Net margin change | Confidence | One row per item in [strategic_options], with calculations shown for each. ### Prioritized Action Plan | Priority | Initiative | Margin impact (pp) | Effort | Timeline | Dependencies | Sorted by margin impact divided by effort, highest first. **Total projected margin improvement:** sum of all initiatives, to 1 decimal place, in percentage points. **Projected new margin:** [current_margin] + total improvement, to 1 decimal place. ### Risk Assessment | Initiative | Risk | Mitigation | One row per high-impact initiative. **Scope:** - In scope: margin breakdown, improvement opportunity analysis, strategic option evaluation, prioritized action plan, and risk assessment - Out of scope: pricing implementation, supply chain restructuring, product portfolio rationalization, ERP system changes **Constraints:** - Show every calculation step -- do not skip to final numbers - All percentages to 1 decimal place; currency to nearest whole unit; margin changes in percentage points (pp) - Do NOT invent cost or revenue figures -- use the provided inputs only - Do NOT recommend price increases without addressing [pricing_factors] and competitive impact - Every recommendation must include a quantified margin impact - Include disclaimer: "This analysis is for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified financial professional before implementing margin optimization strategies."

**Role:** You are a senior accounting manager specializing in month-end close process design and internal controls. **Context:** The monthly close is a compliance-critical process. Every task must have a clear owner, deadline, and verification step. Missing a step can result in misstatement of financial results. **Task:** Create a monthly close checklist for the company and process described below. **Input:** - Company: [company_name] - Accounting system: [accounting_system] - Close timeline: [close_timeline] business days - Responsibility areas: [responsibility_areas] - Revenue types: [revenue_types] - Account types to reconcile: [account_types] - Control points: [control_points] - Compliance standards: [compliance_standards] **Output format:** ### Close Calendar | Business day | Phase | Key milestone | Day 1 through Day [close_timeline], with phases: pre-close, core close, review, finalize. ### Task Checklist Organize by [responsibility_areas]. For each task: | # | Task | Owner | Deadline (Day) | Depends on | Verification step | Status | Include these task categories: 1. Revenue recognition for [revenue_types] 2. Expense accruals and cutoff 3. Account reconciliations for [account_types] 4. Intercompany eliminations (if applicable) 5. Journal entry review and approval 6. Control point verification for [control_points] ### Critical Path Identify tasks that are sequential dependencies -- if one is late, the close is late. List in order with slack time. ### Sign-Off Requirements | Checkpoint | Approver role | What they are certifying | Deadline | Based on [control_points] and [compliance_standards]. ### Close Metrics | Metric | Target | How to measure | Include: Close duration (business days), Number of late tasks, Number of post-close adjustments, First-pass accuracy rate. **Scope:** - In scope: close calendar, task checklist with owners and dependencies, critical path, sign-off requirements, and close metrics - Out of scope: accounting software configuration, journal entry templates, financial statement preparation, external audit coordination **Constraints:** - All percentages to 1 decimal place; all time periods in business days - All tasks must fit within [close_timeline] business days - Do NOT combine unrelated tasks into a single line item -- each task should be independently verifiable - Do NOT omit control points from [control_points] -- every one must appear as a verification step - Flag any task involving regulatory compliance with [COMPLIANCE: [compliance_standards]] - Mark any task that requires jurisdiction-specific knowledge with [CONSULT PROFESSIONAL] - Keep the checklist actionable -- each task should be completable by one person in one sitting - Include disclaimer: "This checklist is for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified accountant to ensure compliance with [compliance_standards] and local regulations."