BUDGETARY:

Meaning of Budgetary Control:

Budgetary control is the process of determining various actual results with budgeted figures for the enterprise for the future period and standards set then comparing the budgeted figures with the actual performance for calculating variances, if any. First of all, budgets are prepared and then actual results are recorded. The comparison of budgeted and actual figures will enable the management to find out discrepancies and take remedial measures at a proper time. The budgetary control is a continuous process which helps in planning and co-ordination. It provides a method of control too. A budget is a means and budgetary control is the end-result.

Definition of Budgetary Control:

“According to Brown and Howard, “Budgetary control is a system of controlling costs which includes the preparation of budgets, coordinating the departments and establishing responsibilities, comparing actual performance with the budgeted and acting upon results to achieve maximum profitability.” Weldon characterizes budgetary control as planning in advance of the various functions of a business so that the business as a whole is controlled.

1. Batty defines it as, “A system which uses budgets as a means of planning and controlling all aspects of producing and/or selling commodities and services. Welsch relates budgetary control with day-to-day control process.” According to him, “Budgetary control involves the use of budget and budgetary reports, throughout the period to co-ordinate, evaluate and control day-to-day operations in accordance with the goals specified by the budget.”

Budgetary Control involves the follows:

(a) The objects are set by preparing budgets.

(b) The business is divided into various responsibility centre for preparing various budgets.

(c) The actual figures are recorded.

(d) The budgeted and actual figures are compared for studying the performance of different cost centre.

(e) If actual performance is less than the budgeted norms, a remedial action is taken immediately.

Objective of Budgetary Control:

1. To ensure planning for future by setting up various budgets, the requirements and expected performance of the enterprise are anticipated.
2. To operate various cost centre and departments with efficiency and economy.
3. Elimination of wastes and increase in profitability.
4. To anticipate capital expenditure for future.
5. To centralize the control system.
6. Correction of deviations from the established standards.
7. Fixation of responsibility of various individuals in the organization.

Essentials of Budgetary Control:

1. Organization for Budgetary Control
2. Budget Centre
3. Budget Manual
4. Budget Officer
5. Budget Committee
6. Budget Period
7. Determination of Key Factor.

Advantages and Limitations of Budgetary Control:

Advantages:

• Maximization of Profits
• Co-ordination
• Specific Aims
• Tool for Measuring Performance
• Economy
• Determining Weaknesses
• Corrective Action
• Consciousness
• Reduces Costs
• Introduction of Incentive Schemes

Limitations:

• Uncertain Future
• Budgetary Revision Required
• Discourage Efficient Persons
• Problem of Co-ordination
• Conflict Among Different Departments
• Depends Upon Support of Top Management