An aggressive plan will require an aggressive budget. Payback analysis measures projected sales against associated costs. If the dollar investment, compared to projected sales, can't be justified, rethink your plan and budget and re-examine your sales objectives, marketing objectives and marketing mix. Be prepared to change your budget and marketing plan if, after completing a payback analysis, you have determined that either you are over budget or your marketing plan is not paying back at the expected rate. Without going into an advanced accounting course, it may be helpful to you to know some of the budget measurements used to evaluate the finances of a show.
Most organizations have an automatic overhead percentage that is charged to all projects.
Gross profit less indirect expenses. This is the show's profit from operations. When it is done accurately, and you make your numbers, it's like finding a treasure. More importantly, through the budget research, you have a golden opportunity to learn more about your show and, consequently, become a more effective show manager. Work closely and communicate with your organization's treasurer or comptroller or financial manager.