"In many organizations the person who has the responsibility for planning conferences, workshops, and meetings often has little or no training in accounting. And for the busy professional, learning financial management skills on-the-job can be a complicated and frustrating experience. In this practical and down-to-earth book, written specifically for those who do not have a background in accounting, Robert G. Simerly simplifies complex accounting and financial management principles and makes them understandable and easy to apply in developing a comprehensive strategic financial management system." "Simerly presents a step-by-step guide to strategic financial management for conferences, workshops, and meetings in a wide variety of settings. The author covers all aspects of fiscal responsibility, including planning a budget for an individual program, identifying and recovering administrative overhead expenses, integrating individual programs into a comprehensive yearly budget, and developing a five-year financial planning model." "The author details a basic five-step procedure - applicable to any program no matter how large or small - for creating a budget for a single program. He explains how to set in place an accrual accounting system using actual budgets as easy-to-follow case examples. Seven practical principles are outlined for maximizing success and positioning an organization for long-term financial health when designing and implementing a strategic financial planning system for conferences and meetings. The book also provides illustrative sample spreadsheets and several different types of budget planning forms that can be adapted for immediate use in any type of organization."--Jacket.