The "ACCA PM: Performance Management Tools & Strategies" course offers an in-depth exploration of performance management principles critical for modern businesses. The course begins with a solid introduction to the concept of performance management, its role in achieving business goals, and an overview of the ethical considerations that underpin responsible decision-making. Learners are familiarized with the key objectives of the ACCA PM syllabus and the relevance of performance management across various sectors and organizational structures.

Cost accounting techniques are a major focus, where students learn to distinguish between absorption and marginal costing, apply Activity-Based Costing (ABC), and implement advanced methods such as target costing, life cycle costing, and throughput accounting. Cost-Volume-Profit (CVP) analysis is also covered to help learners understand the relationships between costs, volume, and profitability, forming a foundation for strategic decision-making.

Budgeting and forecasting are explored in detail, with a comparison between traditional and flexible budgeting models, the introduction of beyond budgeting approaches, and the use of rolling forecasts and scenario planning. The course also highlights the behavioural aspects of budgeting, emphasizing how human factors can impact the success or failure of budgeting processes within organizations.

The course covers standard costing and variance analysis extensively, helping students understand how to calculate, interpret, and investigate variances in materials, labour, overheads, and sales. Students learn how variance analysis can support both operational control and strategic performance appraisal, improving overall business management. Performance measurement systems are also a key theme, with a focus on financial and non-financial KPIs, balanced scorecards, and how to build effective, holistic performance systems while understanding their limitations.

Strategic performance management topics include value chain analysis, strategic cost management, benchmarking, economic value added (EVA), and tools for strategic planning and business model evaluation. These topics prepare learners to connect financial and non-financial data to broader business strategies and shareholder value creation. Risk management is addressed in depth, with practical lessons on identifying business risks, applying internal controls, and using techniques such as sensitivity analysis, simulation models, and decision trees to manage uncertainty in strategic decision-making.

Finally, the course prepares students for success in the ACCA PM exam by offering structured guidance on exam techniques, scenario-based question approaches, time management strategies, and common pitfalls to avoid. Realistic case studies and mock assessments ensure that learners can apply theoretical concepts to real-world business situations confidently and effectively.