Financial management businesses help organisations plan, monitor and control their finances. Their work may include preparing budgets and forecasts, analysing income and expenditure, managing cash flow, reviewing costs and producing management reports. These services can help business owners and managers understand financial performance, anticipate funding needs and make informed decisions about spending, investment and growth. Depending on the provider, services may also include setting up financial processes, improving payment and credit control, assessing financial risks, preparing business plans and advising on financial strategy. Some firms provide ongoing support as an outsourced finance function, while others undertake a defined review or project. They may work alongside a client's in-house finance team, bookkeeper or accountant; the scope of work varies, and investment or other regulated financial advice is not necessarily included.