Flexible Appropriate Structured Transparent

Promoting standardisation in financial modelling

Good Financial Models
Should Be
FAST

Flexible

To be effective, the structure and style of models require flexibility for both immediate usage and the long term.

They should allow multiple users to run scenarios and sensitivities and to make modifications over an extended period as new information becomes available. This level of flexibility is achieved through maintaining the simplicity of the model, rather than attempting to incorporate complex devices with an option for every eventuality.

Appropriate

Models must reflect key business assumptions directly and faithfully without being cluttered in unnecessary detail.

The modeller must not lose sight of what a model is: a good representation of reality, rather than reality itself. Spurious precision is distracting, verging on dangerous, particularly when it is unbalanced. For example, highly specific tax assumptions may lead to an expectation that all elements of the model are equally certain, creating a false impression if the revenue forecast is essentially guesswork. An excessively detailed base case will drown the more important scenario-based risk analysis and may prevent the practical execution of Monte Carlo analysis.

Structured

Rigorous consistency in layout and organisation is essential in retaining the model’s logical integrity over time, particularly as a model’s author may change.

A consistent approach to structuring workbooks, worksheets, and formulas saves time when building, learning, or maintaining the model.

Transparent

Effective models are founded upon simple, clear formulas that can be understood by other modellers and non-modellers alike.

Confidence in a financial model’s integrity can only be assured through the clarity of a logical structure and layout. Many of the recommendations that enhance transparency also increase the flexibility of the model: if they can be reviewed easily this facilitates any future adaptation that may be required.

Get Certified

NOW AVAILABLE!

The FAST Level 1 Certificate is designed for individuals who wish to demonstrate their competence in building spreadsheet models using the FAST Standard.

The process of preparing for and completing successfully the FAST Standard Organisation’s (FSO) assessment procedures is a useful way for individuals to confirm to themselves that they understand and can apply the FAST Standard to the spreadsheet models that they build.

The FAST Level 1 Certificate is evidence of an individual’s understanding of the FAST Standard (and therefore the arguments for standardised financial modelling) and the application of the Standard in building spreadsheet models that are flexible, appropriate, structured and transparent.

The FAST Level 1 Certification awarded by the FSO provides evidence that an individual has proved competent on a specified date in understanding and applying the FAST Standard. The certificate will be useful for individuals that are seeking to present a case to existing or potential employers of their modelling credentials and experience.

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