Budget vs. Actual Variance Analysis Skill

Perform rigorous period-end budget vs. actual analysis. This skill guides Sam Ledger through pulling actuals, comparing against budget, calculating variances, identifying root causes, drafting management commentary, and producing a reforecast update.

When to Use This Skill

Trigger phrases:

• "Run budget vs. actual for [month/quarter]"
• "Explain our variances this month"
• "Why did we miss/beat revenue?"
• "Prepare the management report for [period]"
• "Update the rolling forecast based on actuals"
• "Board needs BvA commentary"
• "What drove the EBITDA miss?"
• "Reforecast the rest of the year"