What is a Global?
A 'Global' in budgeting is akin to a variable in mathematics. It represents a specific value or formula that can be used across multiple areas of a budget. By setting a global value, users can reference it multiple times without having to re-enter the value repeatedly.
For example, imagine you're budgeting for a film project lasting 6 weeks. Instead of manually entering '6 weeks' for every relevant cost, you can set a global variable, say TW (Total Weeks), and use it throughout your budget.
Benefits of using globals:
Consistency: Globals ensure you have consistent numbers throughout.
Efficiency: Update one global to modify all related values.
Dynamic Budgeting: Real-time calculations mean faster, more accurate budget adjustments.
Creating a Global
Within your project budget, click the "Globals" button.
On the Globals modal, click the purple "+" icon to create a new global.
Fill in the respective columns for the global:
Symbol: Add a shortcode for your global. Example:
TWfor "Total Weeks."Description: Define the global. Using our example, "Total Weeks."
Formula: Enter a number or a custom formula. For our example, '6'. You can also reference existing globals in the formula (e.g., "=TW * 100")
Unit: Specify the measurement unit. Here, it's 'weeks'.
Evaluation: A non-editable column showing the final value.
Requirements/Limitations:
Only number columns support Globals and formulas.
Best suited for overarching modifications rather than specific entries.
Using Globals in your Budget
In any rate, qty, or number cell, press the "=" symbol to enable the formula mode. Here, you can combine standard arithmetic with your globals.
Begin typing letters after "=", and a dropdown will appear, showcasing your current globals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Globals & Formulas be combined in one cell?
A: Absolutely! Reference a global within a formula for dynamic calculations.Q: Can you have more than one global?
A: Yes, just structure it like a formula example. (=TW+SW)
See it in Action
Check out our YouTube tutorial to see how globals can be used inside your budget.