Spreads

Set up spreads to be used during template Input to spread a value based on a defined spread pattern across time periods.

What are Spreads and How are They Used?

Set up spreads to be used during template Input to spread a value based on a defined spread pattern across time periods. For example, spread data monthly, quarterly, 4-4-5, 5-4-4, evenly, and so on. You decide on the time period and spread pattern for each spread you add. Spreads must be enabled in templates when the template is added and setup during template setup. You might, for example, set up a spread when you are forecasting Workforce expenses for a year and you want the projected budget to be spread evenly each month.

How to Set Up Spreads During Template Setup?

Spreads are used in templates to distribute values over different periods using specific patterns. You can spread data on a monthly, quarterly, 4-4-5, 5-4-4, or even basis. When adding spreads, you have the flexibility to choose the time period and pattern for each one. 

Let’s understand this with an example.

Alex wants to use the spreads setup to spread the data. He can either do that evenly throughout the year for all the months, or he can choose to do it unevenly, i.e. he can insert different data for the months of July and August. 

To set up a new spread:

1. Navigate to Maintenance > Templates > Template Setup. 

2. Select a scenario from the scenario dropdown.

3. Select the template in which you want to set up the spread, and navigate to Setup > Spreads Setup.

4. Using the Insert Spread option, insert the required number of rows in the grid.

5. Enter a spread name and code to identify the spread. Then, enter period data based on how you want it to be spread. You can spread data evenly throughout, or you can divide them on a monthly or weekly basis.

6. Once you are done spreading the data, click Save.

Now when the template is accessed via the Planning Control Panel, the spread will be available for selection to be applied to a line as shown below:

How to Apply Spreads to a Template Accessed via the Planning Control Panel?

To apply spreads to a template accessed via the planning control panel, do the following:

1. Select a scenario, budget entity, template, and open it in the input mode. 
2. Click the Methods tab and select Annual Value. The spreads are displayed.
3. Select a spread and click Apply. The spread code cell is updated for the line.
4. Enter data and press enter and the data will be reflected in the corresponding periods for that year.