ABSTRACT
To ensure that the Forecast equals the Target calls for planning: to ensure the Actual equals the Target calls for control. Control can only be exercised if information as to progress towards the Target is available: this is the meaning of 'monitoring', it is the collection and evaluation of information concerning progress towards the targets. Assuming an adequate monitoring system has been set up so that a careful and continuous watch is kept upon all the most important factors that make up the company's profit, the next problem is to decide when and whether to make a revision to the target, the forecast or a plan. One important duty the corporate planner has to perform is to ensure that the volume and timing of reports to the Board are conveniently phased. The corporate planner's task is by no means over even when the strategic plans have been approved.
