The following questions can help you understand whether you are managing the finances of your organization in a prudent and sensible manner.

• Where is your organization money kept?
• What interest are you earning on it?
• Is this the best place for your money?
• Who has authority to withdraw money, how much and for what reasons?
• What policy statements exist to guide levels and items of expenditure?
• How do you report what was spent?
• Who keeps the records?
• Who checks the records?who audits your accounts?
• What financial controls are in place in your organization?
• How do you save on projected expenditure?For example:
• Travel-look for accounts, group rates.
• Accommodation-seek volume discounts,make arrangements with one hotel and use it whenever needed.
• Seek donations of resources-e.g office space, office equipment, vehicles,fuel, insurance and clothing.Are there others?

• How successful have your money management practices been in the past?
• What do you need to improve?