Variance Commentary

Core Workflow

1. Identify actuals, target or baseline, period, scope, owner, and materiality threshold.
2. Verify the variance calculation and units from supplied data.
3. Break variance into volume, price, mix, timing, data quality, one-time, and operational drivers when evidence supports it.
4. Separate confirmed drivers from hypotheses and required follow-up.
5. State business impact, confidence, owner, and recommended next action.
6. Keep reviewer notes separate from external or board-facing language.

Safety Rules