**********************************************************************
-> This file contains detailed instructions for installing,
   loading and using EASI-PLAN. It can be used for reference
   purposes, resolving specific problems or learning in detail 
   about EASI-PLAN. It is NOT essential to read this file before 
   you start to use EASI-PLAN.

-> The file has been supplied as an integral part of the shareware
   version of EASI-PLAN, a comprehensive financial planner for new,      
   small and medium-sized businesses, specially developed for use on a    
   'try-before-you-buy' basis by Invest-Tech Limited. For contact 
   details, see end of this file.

-> This file approximately 37 x A4 pages long.

-> To quit this file and return to DOS at any stage, press CTRL+BREAK. 

-> To return to EASI-PLAN's introductory menus, type "GO" at the 
   DOS prompt.

-> To print this file, type "PRINT MANUAL.TXT" at the DOS prompt.

-> To scroll through this file screen-by-screen, press any key.
**********************************************************************

                   EASI-PLAN r3.0 Lite & Pro
                   =========================

                       SHAREWARE VERSION
                       =================


                 Comprehensive Financial Planner
                              for
                  New and Established Businesses
                 ===============================


                            USER MANUAL 
                            ===========


                      Invest-Tech Limited
         27 Ardmeen Park, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
    
    Irish Tel: 01-283 4083      UK Tel: 01232-315454
      (Call 9 to 9 weekdays and 10 to 6 weekends - GMT/BST)  
    Fax: 278 2391 
      Fax codes: Irish:01-  UK:00-353-1-  Inter'l:+353-1-
    CompuServe: 100606,2665
    Internet: 100606.2665@compuserve.com

The information and data contained in this manual are subject to
change without notice and do not represent a commitment by the
vendor. Both the manual and the described software are supplied
under a licence agreement and may be used only in accordance with
the terms of this agreement (see README.TXT).

(c) Copyright  1994-95  Invest-Tech Limited  All rights reserved.

**********************************************************************

                            CONTENTS 
                            ========
        
        PREFACE
                
        HOW TO......TABLE
        
        1.  INTRODUCTION

        2.  FINANCIAL & BUSINESS PLANNING
        
        3.  INSTALLING EASI-PLAN                        
            
            3.1   First-time Installation                      
            3.2   Initial loading of EASI-PLAN              
        
        4.  BASICS OF EASI-PLAN                       
            
            4.1   Loading EASI-PLAN Projections  
            4.2   Key Instructions                        
            
                  4.2.1  Using menus
                  4.2.2  Entering assumptions
                  4.2.3  Saving & loading assumptions

            4.3   Initial Set Up Tasks              
                  
                  4.3.1  Video display
                  4.3.2  Printer setup
                  4.3.3  Laser/page printer
                  
        5.  EXPLORING EASI-PLAN                         
            
            5.1   Getting Help                        
            5.2   Special Function Keys
            5.3   Exercise                      

        6.  USING EASI-PLAN                        
            
            6.1   General Advice                        
            6.2   Structuring a Model                       
            6.3   Using QUIK-PLAN
            6.4   Model-Building Procedure                            
            6.5   Avoiding Calculation Errors
            6.6   Printing Reports and Graphs                             
            6.7   Sensitivity Analysis
            6.8   Advancing Projections               
            6.9   Creating a Spreadsheet File

        7.  SUPPORT & ASSISTANCE  

***********************************************************************

PREFACE
=======

For a general introduction to EASI-PLAN, its system requirements
and related information, please refer to the README.TXT text
file.

EASI-PLAN is a shareware product and supplied on a "try-before-
you-buy" and unsupported basis.  If you wish to continue using it
after a 30-day trial period you must register as a user with
Invest-Tech. In return for registering, you will receive a fully-
operational copy of EASI-PLAN with a complete manual. You also
gain access to full support. You can use the Registration Form 
in the text file REGISTER.TXT to register. 

You can also upgrade and register directly with Invest-Tech via 
our World Wide Web (WWW) site on the Internet using a credit 
card and its special built-in forms. See bottom of file for 
details of its location.  Our Web site, called PlanWare, 
contains downloadable versions of *ALL* our financial planners 
for businesses and the home. It also offers useful advice in 
the form of text files on such topics as business planning, 
cashflow forecasting etc. as well as lots of other interesting 
stuff.

This is the most comprehensive of all the text files accompanying
EASI-PLAN. It is based on the more extensive 160-page printed manual 
which also contains several detailed appendices, comprehensive 
key-stroke tutorial exercises and many other items and features.

This file covers all the main features of EASI-PLAN Lite. It does
not cover some of the more sophisticated features included in
EASI-PLAN Pro.

Important Note:   The suggested directory for EASI-PLAN Lite is 
                  EASIL3. If using EASI-PLAN Pro, the suggested
                  directory is EASIP3. Please note these when 
                  referring to the instructions given in this 
                  manual.

The other text files supplied with the shareware version are:
    
  Read-1st.txt  If this exists, it must be read by all new users.

  Readme.txt    Basic information. Should be read by new users. 
  
  Register.txt  Contains registration details and Registration
                  Form. Use to register.

  Vendor.txt    Contains short/long descriptions of EASI-PLAN 
                  etc. as well as a copy of Distributor Agreement 
                  and Form. For use by shareware libraries.

The following batch files also contain explanatory text:

   Ep.bat     Used to load EASI-PLAN in conjunction with an 
              existing *.ASS file specified by the user.

   Go.bat     Special introductory file which can be run by new 
              users as soon as they have installed/unzipped 
              EASI-PLAN. 

   Start.bat  Used to facilitate installation and unzipping of 
              a self-extracting file called EASIPLAN.EXE or 
              EASIPLAP.EXE. These files may be present in some 
              shareware versions.

**********************************************************************

HOW TO......   TABLE
====================

   -> You may wish to print and cut out this table.

  ===================================================================
   How to.....                             Initiating keys
  -------------------------------------------------------------------          
   Load or reload assumptions              
     in "filename.ass"                     EP FILENAME.ASS  or *F,L      
   Save assumptions                        *F,R  or  *F,B       
                         
   Access Help Page                        F1 or **CTRL+F1 or **ALT+F1  
   Refer Help Note                         **RETURN+PgDn 
   Drilldown                               **RETURN 
   Turn Hints on/off                       *H     
                         
   Access Main Menu                        F10
   Access sub-menus etc.                   **F1, **F2 etc.
   Access position indicator & menu        **F8
      
   Use CTRL function keys                  **CTRL
   Use ALT function keys                   **ALT
                         
   Change title for projections            *I,T   
   Change Basic setup info                 *I,B 

   Erase selected assumptions              **CTRL+F7
   Remove all monthly assumptions          *I,M
   Remove all quarterly assumptions        *I,Q  
                         
   Enter assumptions                       *A 
   Enter monthly assumptions               *A & M  or **F2
   Enter quarterly assumptions             *A & Q  or **F5

   Copy assumption across row              **CTRL+F4
   Copy row of assumptions                 **CTRL+F5

   Insert constant value                   **ALT+F2 
   Insert changing value (percent)         **ALT+F4 
   Insert changing value (absolute)        **ALT+F5 
      
   Change number of decimal places         **CTRL+F6
       
   Jump around reports                     **CTRL+F2
   Create split window                     **CTRL+F3
                         
   Recalculate                             *C or **F9 
                        
   Review reports                          *R or *F2, *F3, *F4, 
                                             *F5, *F6 or *F8  
    
   Print reports                           *P 
                         
   View graphs                             *V or **F7 
   Print graphs                            *V (with Graphics)
                         
   Set up printer                          *I,S  or *I,P  or *I,D 
   Change video display                    *I,V 
  
   Advance all assumptions                 *D 
   Do sensitivity analysis                 *S
   Use QUIK-PLAN                           *K
   Create spreadsheet-compatible file      *F,X
  ==================================================================
        *   Starting from EASI-PLAN's Main Menu
        **  Starting from within a report  
        
**********************************************************************

1. INTRODUCTION
===============

EASI-PLAN Lite is a powerful and easy-to-use financial planning 
software package for preparing comprehensive projections, budgets, 
business plans etc. for up to three years ahead. 

It is especially aimed at small businesses and new ventures. It 
is also ideal for use by professional advisers, consultants, 
training organisations, financial institutions and enterprise 
support agencies which work with new or small businesses. It has 
the flexibility to handle manufacturing, distribution or service 
businesses.

EASI-PLAN Lite is extensively menu-driven and incorporate 
comprehensive online context-sensitive help facilities. It is 
suitable for managers, entrepreneurs and business people with only 
limited or no previous expertise in computing, finance or 
business planning.  

A related version, EASI-PLAN Pro, contains greater detail and is 
suitable for use by medium-sized businesses and strategic business 
units within large companies. A user can readily upgrade from Lite 
to Pro at an attractive price. Both versions of EASI-PLAN can be 
operated side-by-side from the same PC. 

There is also a version of EASI-PLAN, called Micro, specifically 
developed for use by very small businesses. Further information 
about Pro and Micro are given in the README.TXT file.

EASI-PLAN Lite is pre-formatted to handle the very wide range 
of the variables and functions normally encountered when 
preparing financial projections. Based on the monthly and 
quarterly assumptions entered by the user, EASI-PLAN compiles 
detailed and fully-integrated financial projections for one year 
on a monthly basis and, in less detail, for a further two years 
on a quarterly basis.  It produces numerous pro-forma financial 
and management reports together with graphs for many key variables.  

EASI-PLAN Lite contains numerous facilities for accelerating the 
process of preparing first-cut projections; for undertaking 
global or specific what-if or sensitivity analysis; for speeding 
up the entry of assumption data etc.  

EASI-PLAN is easy-to-use because all the formulae for financial 
calculations are pre-written; reports are pre-formatted and 
clearly laid out; menu structures follow logical sequences; and 
extensive online help is available to the user at all stages. 

The time required to set-up and become familiar with EASI-PLAN is 
only a few hours as compared with the many hundreds of hours that 
would be required to construct a similar financial model on a 
spreadsheet.
 
This manual provides detailed explanations on all aspects of 
EASI-PLAN and will help users make effective use of it with the 
minimum of preparation. It is unnecessary to read the manual in 
any detail before using EASI-PLAN on account of the extensive 
context-sensitive help which is provided online. The best way 
to learn about EASI-PLAN is to use it !

The manual is based on the full printed version supplied with the 
fully operational version of EASI-PLAN. In a few places, it 
describes special features (such as creating ASCII or spreadsheet
files) which are not accessible in the shareware version of 
EASI-PLAN. The manual is structured as follows:

   Section 2 introduces financial & business planning. 
   
   Section 3 explains how to install, load EASI-PLAN for the
   first time.
   
   Section 4 describes the basics of using of EASI-PLAN and 
   explains how to prepare it for a video display and printer. 
   
   Section 5 contains further explanations and exercises to 
   familiarise users with additional features. 

   Section 6 contains detailed advice on using EASI-PLAN in real 
   planning situations and explains its more advanced facilities.

   Finally, Section 7 describes Invest-Tech's support for 
   EASI-PLAN.  

EASI-PLAN has been developed by Invest-Tech over several years and 
is being used by a wide variety of businesses ranging from start-ups 
to major companies. Formed in 1983, Invest-Tech is an independent 
business and management consultancy specialising in business planning 
& strategy and the development of related software.  It is a 
Registered Practice within the Institute of Management Consultants 
in Ireland. Details of Invest-Tech's other software products for 
cashflow, financial, business and personal planning are contained 
in the README.TXT file.  

**********************************************************************

2. FINANCIAL & BUSINESS PLANNING
================================

This Section contains a general introduction to financial and 
business planning. It will be of particular interest to users who 
are new to these areas.

By means of a computer and suitable software, a mathematical model 
of a business's finances can be constructed to help prepare its 
financial projections. The use of a computer-based model reduces 
the tedium of carrying out numerous repetitive calculations and 
simplifies the alteration of assumptions and the presentation of 
results. 

Financial models are used to compile forecasts and budgets; to 
assess possible funding requirements; and to explore the likely 
financial consequences of alternative funding, marketing or 
operational strategies.  They can also be used for business 
planning, investment or funding appraisals and for financial 
analysis.  Used effectively, a model can help prevent major 
planning errors, identify or evaluate opportunities, attract 
external funding, provide guidance, evaluate financial and 
development options, monitor progress etc.

A model utilises assumptions on sales volumes, prices, operating 
costs, funding etc., to produce projected balance sheets, profit 
& loss accounts and cashflow statements. Typically, it makes 
monthly projections for the first year and less detailed 
projections for the following years. All the elements of a model 
are usually fully-integrated, by means of formulae, so that a 
change to any assumption in any period results in appropriate 
adjustments to profits, cashflows etc. throughout the model.  

Once entered, the initial assumptions can be readily altered to 
evaluate alternative scenarios.  For example, a model could be 
used to explore the extent to which future sales can be increased 
while holding borrowings within predetermined limits; to assess 
the effects of varying selling prices and/or volumes on net 
profits; or to determine the optimum level and mix of future 
funding for a business.

For the management of an existing business, or promoters planning 
a substantial new venture, financial modelling can be an 
invaluable tool to assist the preparation of a business plan. 
However, business planning  should not be confused with the 
preparation of financial projections.  The former must provide 
the foundation for the financial projections which can be derived 
arithmetically by a model. The model and its forecasts should 
contribute to but never dictate the contents of a written 
business plan. 

Once basic issues relating to markets, sales and operations have 
been fully researched and considered, a model can be used to 
produce the financial projections.  However, the veracity and 
usefulness of these projections will be completely determined by 
the quality and reliability of the underlying assumptions 
determined outside the model.  For example, if sales or cost 
forecasts are unrealistic or inadequately researched, then the 
value of a model's output is greatly diminished.  An impressive 
set of financial projections is of little benefit if unsupported 
by research or based on mere speculation or wishful thinking.

Before using a financial model to help plan the future of a 
business, a manager or entrepreneur should:

  1. Decide at the very outset on the central purpose of the 
     modelling exercise (raise funds etc.); the target audience 
     (co-directors, financial institutions etc.); and the time 
     horizon (one year etc.).  

  2. Identify and think through all the critical assumptions. 
     Prepare outline projections to confirm their overall direction, 
     examine the critical elements in detail and consider strategic 
     issues relating to sales, profitability, funding etc. The 
     QUIK-PLAN facility (see Section 6.3) within EASI-PLAN is ideal 
     for preparing first-cut projections which can be progressively 
     refined and expanded.

  3. Check that all key assumptions (e.g. sales forecasts) and data 
     (e.g. opening balance sheet and any prior-year financial results) 
     are to hand, and have been adequately researched.

  4. Recognise the danger of presenting too much detail or too many 
     reports. Most senior managers, investors and financiers seek 
     simple financial statements which they can readily see to have 
     been based on detailed analysis and realistic assumptions.  This 
     detail can be provided on request or relegated to appendices in 
     a report or business plan.  Make use of EASI-PLAN's summary 
     reports, including its three-year Textual Summary Report, and 
     numerous graphs to present the highlights of a plan or set of 
     projections.

When preparing financial projections, be conscious of the following 
pitfalls and dangers: 

 # Using financial forecasting as a substitute for business 
   planning

 # Ignoring historic trends or performances at company, sectoral 
   and national levels
 # Overstating market shares and growth, sales forecasts, and profit 
   levels 

 # Underestimating costs and delays likely to be encountered

 # Disregarding industry performance norms and competitors' responses 

 # Breaching generally-accepted financial guide lines and ratios 

 # Making unduly optimistic assumptions about the availability of 
   loans, trade credit, grants, equity etc.

 # Seeking spurious accuracy while failing to recognise matters of 
   strategic importance.

These problems can arise as the result of a lack of foresight or 
insight, or because of excessive optimism. As they can lead to under-
estimation of the resources required to develop a business with 
potentially disastrous consequences, it can be counterproductive to 
overstate the potential of a business.  

Realistic views should always be taken of a business's prospects, 
prospective profits, funding requirements etc.  There is often merit 
in compiling worst case projections to complement most likely or 
best forecasts. EASI-PLAN's sensitivity-analysis facilities 
(Section 6.7) can be used for this purpose to temporarily override 
the basic assumptions. 

Once a plan or projections have been approved or are being 
implemented, it should be regularly updated and compared with the 
results being achieved. After all, a plan is only useful if it is 
being followed; serves as a benchmark for control purposes; and if 
the projected outcomes are being achieved. To assist with the 
monitoring of a plan, EASI-PLAN offers facilities for preparing 
rolling 12-month projections (Section 6.8); and exporting 
projections and assumptions for incorporation into a budgeting 
system (Section 6.9).

Users with limited financial expertise should work closely with 
their professional advisers when using EASI-PLAN.

**********************************************************************

3. INSTALLING EASI-PLAN
=======================

This Section explains how to install and load EASI-PLAN for the first 
time. EASI-PLAN must be set up as explained in this Section before it 
can be used.

Please check the supplied disk(s) for a READ-1ST.TXT file containing 
the latest information on EASI-PLAN.  View this file (if it is 
present) as follows:

  - Switch to the drive/directory to which EASI-PLAN has been 
    installed/unzipped etc.
 
  - Type "TYPE READ-1ST.TXT|MORE" where "|" is the pipe symbol 
    (look for it in the bottom lefthand coner of your keyboard).


3.1  First-time Installation
----------------------------

A list of EASI-PLAN's files is contained in README.TXT.  All
these files should be included in the EASIPLAN.* archive file.

 a) Confirm that at least 0.5mb of space is available on your 
    hard disk (use the DIR or CHKDSK command) for possible use as 
    "virtual memory". 

 b) Get into the sub-directory on your hard disk where you have 
    copied/installed all EASI-PLAN's files (for example if the 
    sub-directory EASIL3 was used, type "CD EASIL3" and press 
    RETURN at the DOS prompt).        
    
 c) For general introductory information, type "GO". If your
    PC uses a very old type of display, do not select this option
    - refer to Section 3.2 below.


3.2  Initial Loading of EASI-PLAN
---------------------------------

To directly (i.e. to bypass "GO" the introductory menu system) load 
EASI-PLAN after it has been installed, proceed as follows: 

 1. Get into the EASIL3 sub-directory on the drive where EASI-PLAN 
    has been installed, i.e. type "CD EASIL3" and press RETURN at 
    the C:\> prompt if EASI-PLAN was installed onto a hard disk drive 
    called C. 
    
 2. If it is planned to print EASI-PLAN's graphs, run the DOS 
    "GRAPHICS" program (see Section 6.6 below for further info.).
    
 3. Type "EP MASTER" (ensure that a single space is inserted between 
    EP and MASTER) and press RETURN. Wait whilst EASI-PLAN loads 
    itself together with specimen projections on a file called 
    MASTER.ASS. 
    
 4. After a short time the introductory screens for EASI-PLAN will 
    appear. Press RETURNs to skip these screens and wait a few moments 
    for EASI-PLAN's Main Menu to appear.

If the video display is unsatisfactory, press I (for Initialise) from 
EASI-PLAN's Main Menu and then V (for Video)  and select a different 
type of display. 

If using a LCD display, EASI-PLAN's "on-screen" cursor may not be 
visible until the display has been reset to L (for LCD/B&W) within 
the Video sub-menu. 

The final preparatory task is to save a copy of the specimen 
assumptions supplied with EASI-PLAN (in the file called MASTER) which 
have just been loaded onto the hard disk for future use as a 
"working" copy. To do this, proceed as follows:

    Press F (for File) from EASI-PLAN's Main Menu (if necessary, 
    get into the Main Menu by pressing the F10 function key which 
    is located at the top or along the side of the keyboard or by 
    choosing "Goto" as a menu option) and then press N (for New). 
    Next, create the working copy of the specimen assumptions on the 
    hard disk by immediately entering a unique file name, (WORKING 
    is recommended), in response to the screen prompt and press 
    RETURN.   

Use WORKING as the initial working copy for experimental purposes.  
Repeat the foregoing  procedure to make a second copy called BACKUP 
if desired.  EASI-PLAN will automatically add .ASS as the file 
extension to these file names. When specifying a file name, the 
maximum permissible number of letters is eight and do not include 
the character "." (full point) as part of the file name.

To quit EASI-PLAN, press G (for Goto) if it is  necessary to get 
back to EASI-PLAN's Main Menu, then press Q (for Quit) from the Main 
Menu and give "Y" responses to the subsequent questions. 

To reload EASI-PLAN with the WORKING.ASS assumptions file, type
"EP WORKING" at the DOS prompt.

**********************************************************************

4. BASICS OF EASI-PLAN
======================

This Section describes in detail all the basic commands and features 
of EASI-PLAN and explains how to accommodate different types of 
video displays and printers.

If EASI-PLAN is not being run through Windows and if available 
memory is limited (i.e. less than 540k), use the DIR or CHKDSK 
commands to confirm that 0.5mb of space is free on the hard disk to 
enable EASI-PLAN to create virtual memory.  EASI-PLAN does this by 
creating one or two temporary files called VM.TMP and SLASHS.TMP on 
the EASIL3 sub-directory.  These files will only be created if 
the PC has insufficient memory to fully accommodate EASI-PLAN.  
They will be removed automatically when EASI-PLAN is exited using 
its Quit command.  If, however, EASI-PLAN exited as a result of 
re-booting the PC, the files will not be removed.  This can be 
done by the user using the DOS file "Delete" command without 
impairing EASI-PLAN. 

For further information on the memory requirements for EASI-PLAN, 
you should refer to the READ-1ST.TXT text file.


4.1  Loading EASI-PLAN Projections
----------------------------------

To start using EASI-PLAN, get into the EASIL3 sub-directory by 
entering "CD EASIL3" and pressing RETURN at the hard disk's root 
directory prompt (e.g.  C:\>).  

To load EASI-PLAN together with the previously saved working model 
(WORKING.ASS), type "EP WORKING" (ensure that a space is inserted 
between EP and WORKING), press RETURN at the C:\EASIL3> prompt and 
await the appearance of EASI-PLAN's initial help screen and Main 
Menu. 

The syntax for loading a EASI-PLAN model is as follows:

     EP [X:]ANYNAME   (Insert a blank space immediately after EP)

The following is an explanation of the make up of this command line:

     EP is a simple batch file which loads EASI-PLAN's two main 
        files (Easi.exe & Plan.ovr).
     
     [X:] is optional and refers to the disk drive/path 
        containing ANYNAME.  It needs to be used only when ANYNAME 
        is not on the same drive or sub-directory as EASI-PLAN's 
        other files, for example, when using a second hard disk 
        drive. If ANYNAME resides on a different sub-directory to 
        that containing EASI-PLAN, the path should be entered 
        immediately before ANYNAME. For example, to load an ANYNAME 
        file which is located in drive D in a sub-directory called 
        PRIVATE, use the following command line:
                        
                        EP(space)D:\PRIVATE\ANYNAME
        
      ANYNAME (max. 8 characters) is the name of the file 
        containing all the assumptions relating to a specific set of 
        cashflow projections.  EASI-PLAN automatically adds a file 
        extension .ASS to ANYNAME. For example, to load EASI-PLAN 
        along with projections for a subsidiary company called 
        ABC-LTD (previously saved as a file called ABC-LTD.ASS in 
        the same sub-directory as EASI-PLAN), the command would be 
        as follows:
                            
                            EP(space)ABC-LTD

If, in future sessions, a model's file name cannot be remembered, 
simply type "EP(space)X" and press RETURN at the C:\EASIL3> prompt 
and wait until the "File does not exist" message appears.  Press 
RETURN to remove this message, use the cursor to highlight the 
required file from the list which automatically appears on the next 
screen, and then press RETURN to load it. 

EASI-PLAN always looks for its help system file (PLAN.HLP) on the 
same disk/sub-directory as is used to hold its assumption files 
(*.ASS). If the help file is not found, an error message "Help File 
Not Found" will be displayed.  To restore the help facility, copy 
PLAN.HLP onto the disk/sub-directory containing the assumptions 
files (*.ASS).


4.2  Key Instructions
---------------------

The following instructions are fundamental to using EASI-PLAN.  If 
necessary, refer to the set-up task described in Section 4.3.1 
below to change the video display. 

When using EASI-PLAN always ensure that the SCROLL LOCK key is off.

Load EASI-PLAN along with the specimen assumptions in the previously 
created assumptions file WORKING (i.e. enter "EP(space)WORKING") and 
explore and experiment using the instructions given below. Do not 
make any changes to the assumption values in WORKING for the time 
being. 


4.2.1  Using Menus
------------------

The following instructions explain in detail how to access and use 
EASI-PLAN's menus.

   - To move around EASI-PLAN's menus, either (a) use the cursor keys
     to position the menu cursor over a specific menu item and press 
     RETURN or (b) type the first capital letter (shown in red on most 
     colour displays) of the menu item's name (without pressing RETURN). 
     
     From the Main Menu, access the Reports sub-menu and experiment by 
     pressing R (for Reports), moving the cursor down/up the sub-menu 
     to a specific report and then pressing RETURN to select it.

   - Pressing G (for Goto), or RETURN when the cursor is at the first 
     item, in a sub-menu, always brings a user back up the menu chain 
     to the Main Menu.   

   - A mouse can be used to select menu items by pressing the left-
     hand button.

   - To get back to the Main Menu from within any report, press the 
     F10 function key. Alternatively, use one of the other function 
     keys (F2 to F7), as indicated by the function key strip at the 
     bottom of the screen, to directly call up a specific Report or 
     Graph sub-menu.

   - If a menu unexpectedly disappears at any stage, press F10 to 
     bring up the Main Menu.  Alternatively, press a function key (F2 
     to F7) to bring up a sub-menu.

If a system error should occur due to simultaneous conflicting 
commands etc. being issued inadvertently to EASI-PLAN, it may be 
necessary to press CTRL+BREAK (hold down the CTRL key, press the BREAK 
key and then release both keys) to clear the error, and then press 
F10 to retrieve the Main Menu. 


4.2.2  Entering Assumptions
---------------------------

This Section explains how to locate and access reports and enter 
assumptions.
  
EASI-PLAN is divided into a series of reports containing assumptions 
and/or calculated results. To access any report, get into 
EASI-PLAN's Main Menu (press F10 if necessary) and press A (for 
Assumptions) or R (for Reports) to view a sub-menu indicating the 
range of reports. Use either sub-menu to select and access a 
particular report (either by moving the cursor down/up and pressing 
RETURN or by pressing the first capital letter of the menu option). 
Instead of selecting a specific report, press / (for /all) to gain 
access to all related reports.

Once inside a report, use the down/up/right/left cursor keys to hop 
from cell to cell and to explore the contents of the report.  Use 
the PgDn or PgUp keys to move the cursor quickly down or up a report 
and the TAB and CTRL+LEFT keys to page across a report to the right 
or left respectively. Use the HOME key to jump to the top left-hand 
corner of a report, and END, HOME to jump directly to its bottom 
right-hand corner. The computer will beep whenever the boundary of 
a report has been reached.

A mouse can be used, instead of  the cursor keys, to scroll around 
a report. 

When viewing a Report, a function-key menu strip always appears 
along the bottom of the screen. The primary function keys, F1 to 
F9, can be used to directly access sub-menus or operations without 
having to revert to the Main Menu. 

When finished with a report, press the function key F10 to get 
straight back to the Main Menu or use one of the other function 
keys (F2 to F7) to pop-up a sub-menu. 

Assumptions can be entered (within Assumption Reports) only in 
unsecured cells within rows of cells opposite the <<->> and ->> 
arrows  and shown in reverse video (against a light blue or white 
background on most displays). 

Variable descriptions in the leftmost column of some reports 
(opposite double-headed <<->> arrows and shown in reverse video) 
can be changed by the user or left empty if not relevant.

Zero values are signified by the .. symbol on the screen and are 
automatically converted to empty spaces within a printed report.  

To enter an assumption value, place the cursor at the desired 
cell position within an unsecured area, enter the value and 
either press RETURN or a cursor key to move directly to an 
adjacent cell.

Generally, EASI-PLAN expects monetary values to be entered as 
000's, for example, as 50.1 in lieu of 50,100. To temporarily 
display values to the nearest pound, use the CTRL+F6 function 
key to display values within a specified area to three decimal 
places.

The following rules about entering assumptions must always be 
observed:

 # EASI-PLAN will not permit the entry of values other than in 
   cells or areas (blocks of cells) which have been designated for 
   inputted assumptions by the ->> or <<->> arrows and shown in 
   reverse video.  

 # All EASI-PLAN's formulae and most variable descriptions have 
   been secured to prevent any possible accidental changes. 
   Attempts to enter data in these secured cells will be frustrated 
   by a secured cell error message (press RETURN to clear). 
 
 # Never enter letters, or insert a blank space using the space 
   bar, instead of numbers into cells which have been reserved for 
   numeric entries. Clear such an entry immediately before pressing 
   RETURN by pressing the Backspace key until the computer beeps; 
   enter a number or a zero; and then press RETURN to complete the 
   task.

 # When entering a value into a cell, always complete the entry 
   process by pressing either RETURN or a cursor key to move to the 
   next cell. Never start to enter a value and then, in midstream, 
   try to invoke a menu or function key option. 

 # If a mistake is made when entering a value in a cell, use the 
   Backspace key to correct it before pressing RETURN or, 
   alternatively, press RETURN and re-enter the correct value.

 # If, after entering a value and pressing RETURN, a series of 
   ********'s appear, these asterisks indicate that the value has 
   overflowed the cell's capacity to display it.  To resolve a cell 
   overflow, check that 000's have been entered or temporarily 
   change the number of decimal places being displayed using 
   CTRL+F6.

EASI-PLAN can accommodate in-cell arithmetic conducted within an 
unsecured cell. For example, if 2*3-4 is entered into an unsecured 
cell, the result (2) will be displayed as soon as the RETURN key 
is pressed. The usual calculator rules about precedence and 
bracketing apply.

EASI-PLAN does not recalculate projections until the C (for 
Calculate) option within the Main Menu, or F9 (Calc) within a 
report, has been selected. If the former is used, EASI-PLAN will 
display a Summary & Diagnosis Report immediately after it 
recalculates provided no calculation errors (Section 6.5) have 
been identified. If a calculation error is detected, an 
appropriate message will be displayed after either calculation 
option has been selected. 


4.2.3  Saving & Loading Assumptions
-----------------------------------

This Section describes the options within the F (for File) sub-menu 
for loading and saving assumption files.

To save a set of assumptions as an *.ASS file on disk, press F 
(for File) at the Main Menu to get into EASI-PLAN's File sub-menu.  
This offers a range of options including Replace, Backup, New etc. 
for saving projections using either an existing or a new file name. 

The second line of EASI-PLAN's screen display always shows the last 
twelve characters of the name and disk/directory location (path) of 
the currently loaded file.

The following comments supplement the menu prompts within the F 
(for File) sub-menu: 
 
 # When using the R (for Replace) command, EASI-PLAN overwrites 
   the existing file with the new version and does not create a 
   back-up copy. 

 # B (for Backup) renames the current file by changing its 
   extension name from .ASS to .BAK before saving the updated copy 
   onto disk using the same file name. If necessary, the back-up 
   file can be changed back to an .ASS file using the DOS Rename 
   command.

 # When using the N (for New) option to enter a new file name, its 
   disk/directory path and its name (maximum of 8 characters - do 
   not use a "." full point) can be edited using the Backspace key 
   within the pop-up data-entry box on the screen. If an existing 
   file name is entered, no file will be saved at all. 
 
 # When using E (for Erase), take care to only erase files with 
   .ASS file extensions, otherwise key program files could be lost. 
   Press F10 after erasing a file in order to return to the Main 
   Menu.

 # Use D (for Default) in conjunction with the Backspace key to 
   change the default (normal) drive and/or directory (i.e. path) 
   which EASI-PLAN uses for holding its assumption files (*.ASS).

   If EASI-PLAN is being used on a computer with a hard disk which 
   can be accessed by other people, a user may wish, for security 
   reasons, to always save assumption files on a removable disk 
   rather than on the hard disk.  To do this, the default drive 
   should be changed to refer to the removable disk drive by 
   pressing F (for File) and D (for Default) from the Main Menu 
   and editing the indicated path using the Backspace key.

 # Refer to Section 6.9 below for guidance on using X (for eXtract) 
   to create a spreadsheet-compatible file. Note that this file 
   will require over 200k of disk space.

 # If it proves to be impossible to temporarily exit EASI-PLAN 
   and enter DOS using the T (for Temporary DOS) menu option, the 
   most likely reason is that there is insufficient space on the 
   hard disk to temporarily accommodate some of EASI-PLAN's 
   programs. Once in DOS, type EXIT to return to EASI-PLAN.

 # The Textual Summary Report generated by EASI-PLAN can be printed 
   directly from within EASI-PLAN or it can saved to disk as an 
   ASCII text file (called EASIPLAN.TXT) by means of the A 
   (for ASCII-Text) option. This ASCII file can then be imported 
   into a business plan, management report etc. and edited with 
   the aid of almost any word-processing package (see Section 6.6). 

To switch from using one assumption file to another either:

 (a)  Use the L (for Load) option within the F (for File) sub-menu 
      and then use the cursor keys to select the required file from 
      the list of displayed file names.

 (b)  Exit EASI-PLAN using the Q (for Quit) command and then load 
      the second assumptions file by typing EP(space)ANYFILE and 
      pressing RETURN at the EASIL3 sub-directory prompt. 

This completes the explanations and exercises relating to the basics 
of EASI-PLAN. The next Section describes EASI-PLAN's help system 
and function keys in detail and concludes with a short exercise. 

To quit EASI-PLAN without saving any changes made during the 
foregoing exercises, press Q (for Quit) from the Main Menu and 
respond with "Y's" to any subsequent questions.    


4.3  Initial Set Up Tasks
-------------------------

A new user should undertake the following once-off tasks from 
within EASI-PLAN's Initialise sub-menu using an unaltered copy of 
the original model supplied with EASI-PLAN. For example, use 
WORKING but do not make any changes to the assumption values in 
WORKING for the time being.

The set up tasks relate to the video display and printing. If 
necessary, re-load EASI-PLAN as follows: 

        Get into the EASIL3 sub-directory by entering CD EASIL3 
        at the hard disk's root directory prompt (e.g.  C:\>).  
        
        Load EASI-PLAN with the previously saved working copy of 
        the specimen budget (WORKING), by typing "EP(space)WORKING", 
        press RETURN to skip the initial help screen and await the 
        appearance of EASI-PLAN's Main Menu.  
        

4.3.1 Video Display
-------------------

With EASI-PLAN's Main Menu on the screen, check the video display. If 
it is satisfactory, skip to sub-sections 4.3.2 or 4.3.3 below to set 
up your printer. If you need to change the video display, proceed as 
explained immediately below. 

        Choose the most appropriate video display.  Press I (for 
        Initialise) from the Main Menu and then V (for Video) and 
        select from the three types of display listed.    
        
For most colour monitors, EASI-PLAN uses the following display 
settings:

  ===============================================================
                                    Letters         Background 
  ---------------------------------------------------------------
  Secured values, formulae 
     and fixed variable descriptions  Grey           Blue 
  Inputted values                     Blue           Light Blue 
  Changeable descriptions             Blue           Light blue 
  Descriptions with Help Notes        Bright blue    Blue 
  ===============================================================
   
For most B/W, LCD or mono monitors, EASI-PLAN uses the following 
display settings: 

  ===============================================================
                                     Letters         Background 
  ---------------------------------------------------------------
  Secured values, formulae 
    and fixed variable descriptions  White           Black 
  Inputted values                    Black           White 
  Changeable descriptions            Black           White 
  Descriptions with Help Notes       Bright white    Black 
  ===============================================================
        
Precise settings and appearances may vary from monitor to monitor. 
If the white and bright white letters cannot be distinguished, try 
changing the monitor's contrast settings. If it proves difficult to 
display EASI-PLAN, or to see its cursor when viewing reports or 
Help Pages, try changing the video display (from the Main Menu 
press I, V etc.) or review the instructions in Section 3.2 above. 

If a Hercules monitor is being used, it is not possible to display
the graphs on the screen. A special utility supplied with the 
fully-operational version of EASI-PLAN enables the graphs to be
displayed.

If it is planned to always use EASI-PLAN with a monitor which 
necessitates resetting of the display each time the program is used, 
it is possible to alter the batch file (EP.BAT) which loads EASI-PLAN 
to make the necessary changes automatically. This procedure is fully 
explained in EASI-PLAN's printed manual.


4.3.2 Printer Setup
-------------------

This Shareware version of EASI-PLAN contains restrictions on the 
printing of reports. All these reports will easily fit onto an A4 
page (in portrait) when either a 10 or 12 cpi character pitch is 
being used. As a consequence, it should not be neccessary for a 
user to get involved in changing the supplied set up strings. 
These matters are discussed in detail in EASI-PLAN's full manual.

For the record, printer setup is accessed via the I (for 
Initialise) sub-menu. The relevant options are S (for Strings), 
P (for Print Margins) and D (for Defaults). 

If you make changes to the supplied printer setup, go to the Main 
Menu and use F (for File) and R (for Replace) to save the current 
set of assumptions, with the new printer settings, as an updated 
copy of WORKING.

The only area where a user may need to change the supplied 
printer setup relates to page lengths. If successive reports 
creep down/up the page during printing, reduce/increase the page 
lengths being used by EASI-PLAN by the number of lines of creep. 
For example, if the amount of creep is two extra lines per page, 
reduce the specified page length by two lines. 

If a dot-matrix printer is being used, the supplied page length 
(66) should be satisfactory with either A4 or 8," x 11" 
continuous paper. If using a laser printer, this page length may 
need to be reduced to 64 to prevent page creep etc. To do this 
proceed as follows:

 1. From the Main Menu, press I (for Initialise) to get into the 
    Initialise sub-menu.

 2. Press S (for Strings) and press any key once to skip the 
    explanatory note. Press RETURNs to accept the offered strings. 

    Enter two sets of page lengths in response to the two prompts 
    which will appear in quick succession on the screen (try 66 or 
    64 for both sets). 

    In response to the next prompt, press RETURN to accept the 
    default string. 

    Finally, enter the printer's default page length (try 66 or 64) 
    and then wait a few moments while all the foregoing settings are 
    incorporated into WORKING. 

To change other printer defaults for the interface and paper handling, 
choose D (for Default) from within the Initialise sub-menu.  As 
supplied, EASI-PLAN uses the following defaults which can be 
altered one at a time by the user:

               -  Interface set for a parallel printer (LPT1:) 
               -  Give line feed after RETURN 
               -  Do not wait for paper to be loaded at a new page. 

ALWAYS ensure that the printer is loaded with paper and 'on line' 
before using EASI-PLAN's print sub-menu. 

If successive reports tend to creep down/up the page during 
printing, reduce/increase the page length being used by EASI-PLAN by 
the number of lines of creep.  

As EASI-PLAN sends extended ASCII characters to the printer no 
other printer configuration should be necessary. 

If the printer fails to print the  pounds currency sign, it may 
be necessary to switch the printer to using a different character 
or symbol set. Refer to the printer's manual for guidance.  If 
using a HP LaserJet printer, or one emulating a LaserJet, the 
default symbol set, Roman-8, may not display the  sign. Instead, 
try switching to an IBM-type symbol set. Refer to the printer's 
manual for guidance.

If it proves necessary to change printer margins, choose P (for 
Print margins) from within the I (for Initialise) sub-menu.  
Select one margin to be changed, enter a new value and press 
RETURN.  Repeat this procedure to change other margins and then 
test the results. 

If, during printing, problems of alignment, line or page skipping, 
line wraparound etc. are encountered, refer to the guidance notes 
in the Help Pages dealing with "Resolving printer problems" (display 
the Main Menu, press F1 for the index to Help Pages, place the 
cursor over this item and press RETURN). Then, either use the I (for 
Initialise) sub-menu to change the printer set-up, or make changes 
directly to the printer using its own controls. 

To stop printing at any stage, press CTRL+BREAK.

Note that the main Print sub-menu contains options for 
advancing the printer by a single page; setting the printer's 
alignment to the top of a page; and restoring the printer to its 
default settings (using the string and page length specified when 
using the Strings menu option within the Initialise sub-menu).

If any changes have been made to printer settings, re-save WORKING 
by pressing F (for File) from the Main Menu and B (for Backup). 
Quit EASI-PLAN by pressing Q (for Quit) from the Main Menu and 
give "Y" responses to the subsequent questions. 

**********************************************************************

5.  EXPLORING EASI-PLAN
=======================

This Section contains a detailed description of the online help 
facilities (Section 5.1), explains how to use the special ALT and 
CTRL function keys (Section 5.2) and concludes with an exercise 
(Section 5.3). 

Most new users will benefit by reviewing this Section and completing 
the exercise.

To get started, load a copy of  WORKING, as set up in accordance 
with Section 4 above, by typing EP(space)WORKING at the EASIL3 
sub-directory prompt. 


5.1 Getting Help
----------------

EASI-PLAN incorporates extensive online help facilities which can 
be accessed as follows: 

  # By default, a series of small context-sensitive Hint and 
    Guidance Windows pop-up automatically when using EASI-PLAN's 
    menus.

    These Windows can be globally turned off (or on) by pressing H 
    (for Hint) within the Main Menu. When operating within a sub-
    menu, pressing H (for Hint) will turn on the Hint and Guidance 
    Windows specific to the sub-menu.  

  # The primary function key F1 can be used at any stage to access 
    a context-sensitive Help Page. For example, pressing F1 when 
    viewing a report results in an explanation of its origin and/or 
    contents.

    If F1 is pressed when the Main Menu is being displayed, the 
    first page of the main Index to Help Pages will appear.

    Once inside this Index, use the down/up cursor keys to move a 
    special Help Page menu bar (shown in a dark colour on most 
    displays) to a specific item and press RETURN to select it. 
    (There are other special indexes within the Help Page system 
    for accessing specific reports and error messages).

    To exit from a Help Page, press the ESC key or refer to the 
    instructions at the bottom of the page. First-time users should 
    check the Help Page Index for Details of latest changes to 
    EASI-PLAN. 

  # Variable descriptions shown with brightened letters in the 
    leftmost column of many reports contain pop-up Help Notes 
    relating to the descriptions. 

  # A Help Note can be accessed by placing the cursor over a 
    brightened description, pressing RETURN and then pressing the 
    keyboard's PgDn key. Press PgUp to clear the Note, or simply 
    let it scroll off the screen or be tiled over by another Note. 
    If brightened letters cannot be distinguished, try changing the 
    monitor's contrast. 

  # Rows with brightened values contain drill-down cells which 
    enable a user to view the assumptions or underlying data from 
    which the cells' values have been derived.  

    To drill down, place the cursor on any brightened value within 
    a drill-down row, press RETURN once and then continue pressing 
    RETURN as often as may be necessary to cycle through assumptions 
    etc. and get back to the initial drill-down row. Note that a 
    guidance message appears at the bottom of the screen when 
    drilling is in progress.

    The drill-down facility can also be used to jump to a row of 
    assumptions for the purpose of inserting or changing a single 
    assumption value immediately prior to pressing RETURN to get 
    back to the original starting position. If an assumption has 
    been altered in this way, be sure to recalculate by pressing 
    the F9 function key.

    Note:  If a Help Note has just previously been accessed, press 
           RETURN followed by PgDn to initiate drilling. 

  # Unlike a database system, all EASI-PLAN's reports reside in 
    memory and can be instantly accessed or scrolled through. If a 
    user gets lost when viewing reports, a special pop-up menu can 
    be accessed by tapping the F8 (Lost) function key. This menu 
    lists all the monthly or quarterly reports and indicates 
    the cursor's current location by means of >>>>>>> arrows.


5.2  Special Function Keys
--------------------------

In addition to the primary function keys (F1 to F10) for accessing 
sub-menus etc., EASI-PLAN contains numerous other function key 
commands which can be activated by holding down the computer's 
CTRL or ALT key before pressing a function key. These can be used 
to speed up the entry of assumptions, access extra facilities etc. 
With some slow-running computers there might be a very slight delay 
before some of these function key commands take effect.

As soon as either the CTRL or ALT key is pressed, a different menu 
strip appears at the bottom of the screen. To use any of the 
indicated function keys when a report is being displayed on the 
screen, press and hold down either the CTRL or ALT key while 
tapping one of the listed function keys. For most of these 
function keys, special guidance notes will appear temporarily in 
the top left corner of the screen. They work as explained in 
detail below. 

CTRL+F1 (Help) 
--------------
This gives access to Help Pages relating to the CTRL function keys.

CTRL+F2 (Jump) 
--------------
This enables a user to automatically mark the cursor's current 
position, move to a new location anywhere within EASI-PLAN's reports, 
perform a task or tasks (such as checking, entering or changing 
assumptions), and then jump back to the initial position. The menu 
strip at the bottom of the screen will indicate when Jump is in 
operation. 

Try pressing CTRL+F2, move the cursor sharply down (or up) to view 
another part of EASI-PLAN and then press CTRL+F2 a second time to 
jump back to the start again.  

After CTRL+F2 has been invoked, the cursor can be moved freely 
around any of EASI-PLAN's assumption and output reports.  Avail of 
this facility to become more familiar with the sequence of reports 
and their locations relative to each other.  

Even though their menu strip is not displayed, all the primary 
function keys (including F8 - Lost) can be used while Jump is in 
operation.

CTRL+F3 (Window) 
----------------
This creates a synchronised second window which splits the screen 
horizontally to enable a user compare data etc. from two separate 
reports anywhere in EASI-PLAN. The menu strip at the bottom of the 
screen will indicate when Window is in operation. 

To try this function, locate the cursor in the middle of the screen, 
press CTRL+F3 to split the screen, move the cursor (or mouse) up or 
down within the lower window to inspect another report (or to enter 
or change some assumptions). Press CTRL+F3 to get back to the 
starting position within a single window.  After this command has 
been invoked, the cursor can be moved freely around any of 
EASI-PLAN's assumption and output reports. 

Even though the menu strip is not displayed, all the primary 
function keys (including F8 - Lost) can be used while Window is 
in operation.
 
If a user inadvertently calls up a menu while the screen is split, 
the second window can be eliminated by displaying any report, 
pressing CTRL+F3, moving the cursor for a few cells in any 
direction and pressing CTRL+F3 a second time.

CTRL+F4 (ValueCopy) 
-------------------
This enables a user to copy a single assumption value to another 
assumption cell or to replicate it throughout a rectangular block 
of unsecured assumption cells.  

To experiment, get into any Assumption Report and proceed as 
follows: 

  1. Position the cursor over the assumption value to be copied. 
  
  2. Press CTRL+F4, move the cursor to the assumption cell to be 
     copied to and then press RETURN.

To copy a single assumption value to all the cells within a 
rectangular block of unsecured assumption cells, the procedure is 
as follows:

  1. Position the cursor over the assumption value to be copied.

  2. Press CTRL+F4, move the cursor to one corner of the block of 
     assumption cells to be copied to and press "." (full point), 
     move the cursor to the diagonally opposite corner of this block 
     and press RETURN.

Note that EASI-PLAN will not permit either copying a secured value 
or copying to a secured area. Always move the cursor to the value 
to be copied before pressing CTRL+F4. 

CTRL+F5 (RowCopy) 
-----------------
This can be used to copy a complete row of monthly assumptions up or 
down to another row containing unsecured assumption cells.  

To try it, get into an Assumption Report and proceed as follows: 

  1. Position the cursor at the left-hand unsecured end of the row 
     of assumptions to be copied. 

  2. Press CTRL+F5, move the cursor vertically to the corresponding 
     left-hand end of the unsecured row to be overwritten and press 
     RETURN. 

Note that EASI-PLAN will not permit the copying of a row containing 
secured values or copying to a secured row.  Always move the cursor 
to the left-hand end of the row to be copied before pressing CTRL+F5. 

CTRL+F6 (Decimal) 
-----------------
This can be used to temporarily change the number of decimal places 
being displayed for both assumption and secured values and areas.

To use it, position the cursor at a corner of the area to be 
reformatted; press CTRL+F6; enter the required number of places 
when requested to do so and press RETURN; move the cursor to the 
diagonally opposite corner of the block of values to be formatted; 
and press RETURN a second time to finish.  If the number of places 
exceeds a cell's capacity to display them, a string of asterisks 
(*******) will appear.  Use CTRL+F6 again to reduce the number of 
places. 

CTRL+F7 (Erase) 
---------------
This can be used to erase assumption values in unsecured assumption 
cells within a rectangular area.
 
To try it, get into any Assumption Report and proceed as follows: 

  1. Position the cursor at a corner of the unsecured area whose 
     values are to be erased. 

  2. Press CTRL+F7, move the cursor to the diagonally opposite 
     corner of the unsecured area to be erased and press RETURN. 

ALT+F1 (Help) 
-------------
This gives access to Help Pages relating to the ALT function keys.

ALT+F2 (Constant) 
-----------------
This can be used to speedily enter a constant value across a row 
reserved for monthly or quarterly assumptions within any Assumption 
Report. 
 
To use it, place the cursor in any unsecured cell (shown in 
reverse video) within a row containing a ->> or <<->> arrow. Hold 
down the ALT key, press F2 and release both keys simultaneously. 
Next, enter the constant value as directed, and press RETURN.  This 
value will be automatically copied across the remaining months or 
quarters and the cursor will move down one row.  On some slower 
computers, allow a few moments for this command to take effect.

ALT+F4 (Percentage) 
-------------------
This can be used to enter an initial assumption value for any 
monthly or quarterly period and to change it by a specified 
percentage in each subsequent period, for example, to create a 
monthly or quarterly series like 10.0, 11.0, 12.1, 13.3 etc. 
(based on 10+10%=11.0, 11.0+10%=12.1 etc.).  

To try it, position the cursor at an unsecured cell for any 
assumption variable; hold down the ALT key, press F4 and then 
release both keys; enter the desired initial value in response to 
the first pop-up data-entry prompt on the screen and press RETURN; 
in response to the second prompt enter the percentage by which the 
first value should be changed (use + for increase and - for decrease) 
for each subsequent period and press RETURN.

ALT+F5 (Absolute) 
-----------------
This can be used to enter an initial assumption value for any 
monthly or quarterly period and to change it by a specified absolute 
amount in each subsequent period, for example, to create a monthly 
or quarterly series like 10, 11, 12, 13 etc. (based on 10+1=11; 
11+1=12 etc.).

To try it, position the cursor at an unsecured cell for any 
assumption variable; hold down the ALT key, press F5 and then 
release both keys; enter the desired initial value in response 
to the first pop-up data-entry prompt on the screen and press 
RETURN; in response to the second prompt enter the amount by which 
the first value should be changed (use + for increase and - for 
decrease) in each subsequent period and press RETURN.

Please note the following:

   - With a colour display and some B/W displays, the cursor can be 
     used to paint (in red) the area to be copied to, erased etc.

   - With some mono displays, the cursor may change from a solid 
     dark block to a flashing dash when using some of the special 
     function key facilities, for example, during copying etc.  

   - EASI-PLAN only permits copying or erasing values within 
     unsecured areas shown in reverse video. Values cannot be 
     copied to areas which overlap secured cells or extend beyond 
     a report's limit.  If such tasks are attempted, the command 
     will fail, the computer will beep, or an error message will 
     be displayed (clear by pressing either RETURN, F10 or 
     CTRL+BREAK and F10).


5.3  Exercise
-------------

A user who is familiar with EASI-PLAN can skip straight to Section 
6 which deals with the use of EASI-PLAN in real planning situations.

To undertake the exercise, load an unaltered copy of WORKING as 
set up in accordance with Section 4, by typing EP(space)WORKING 
at the EASIL3 sub-directory prompt. 

If it is desired to save changes made to WORKING, use the N (for New) 
option within the F (for File) menu to save WORKING under a new name 
as soon as EASI-PLAN loads.

By way of an introduction, get into the Main Menu (press F10 if 
necessary) and press P (for Print) and T (for Text) to print the 
Textual Summary Report summarising the model's starting position. 
If desired, view some of EASI-PLAN's pre-set graphs by pressing 
V (for View) etc. from the Main Menu. As the exercise progresses, 
it may be interesting to maintain a note of key values such the 
year-end cash balance, profit/loss etc.

Make changes to the assumptions in WORKING by following the key 
sequences given in parenthesis below (these always originate from 
EASI-PLAN's Main Menu).  Make liberal use of Help Pages, Help 
Notes, drill-down Cells and the F8 position indicator & pop-up menu.

1. Go to the Monthly Assumption Report for Sales Forecasts (No. 1) 
   (F10, A, M & S) and view the Help Note for Sales (000) by 
   placing the cursor over this item and pressing RETURN and 
   PgDn (press PgUp to clear).  Next, enter new or revised sales 
   values for all four subgroups within the first main group in 
   order to increase monthly sales - use the ALT+F2, ALT+F4 and 
   ALT+F5 special function keys to speed up the entry of values; 
   recalculate (F9); and review the effects of these changes on 
   the first year's profitability (F4, P, PgDn, F7, M, S, RETURN, 
   P, RETURN, K, RETURN, G &G).

2. Substantially alter the distribution of trade debtors for the 
   current year in the Monthly Assumption Report for Debtors/
   Creditors (No. 8) (F10, A, M,  B & PgDn). Change the percentage 
   distributions so that much more credit is taken by Trade debtors 
   for the two sales groups. Make sure that the total percentages 
   for each debtor group (i.e. row) are always equal to 100%. 
   Recalculate (F9) and review the effects of these changes on 
   monthly cashflows (F3, C, PgDn, PgDn, F7, M, C, RETURN, G & G). 
   If an error message pops up after recalculation, then 
   EASI-PLAN has detected that the percentage distribution of 
   debtors does not equal 100% for each debtor group. Return, 
   if necessary, to Report No. 8, correct the percentage 
   distribution and recalculate.

3. Substantially increase overhead expenses for some categories 
   in the Monthly Assumption Report for Overheads (No. 4) (F10, A, 
   M, & O); recalculate (F9); and review the effects of the 
   changes on the first year's profitability (F4, P, PgDn, F7, 
   M, P, RETURN, G & G.

4. Incur some major additional capital expenditure during the 
   first year by entering an appropriate amount for Capital 
   expenditure (000) in the Monthly Assumption Report for Fixed 
   Assets etc. (No. 5) (F10, A, M & A). Recalculate (F9) and 
   review the impact of the change on the cashflow projections 
   (F3, C & PgDn to get to Note 6 located below the main 
   cashflow projections). 

5. Place the cursor on top of any brightened value within any 
   Capital expenditure payments row in Note 6; press RETURN once 
   to start using the drill-down facility to hop back to the 
   underlying assumptions; enter an additional amount to cover 
   some extra unforeseen capital expenditure and immediately 
   press RETURN to get back to the starting position at Note 6. 
   Recalculate (F9) and scroll upwards to observe the impact of 
   this additional expenditure on the cashflows and the Capital 
   expenditure item within the Cash Outflows.

6. Substantially increase the opening value for Trade debtors 
   in the opening Balance Sheet (F10, A & B). Recalculate (F9) 
   and respond to the Error in Opening Balance Sheet message by 
   increasing the Reserves near the very bottom of the balance 
   sheet by the amount of the imbalance as indicated by "Check 
   balance sheet balances". Recalculate (F9) and confirm that the 
   balance sheet balances. Next, respond to the Error in phasing 
   of Opening Balance Sheet Items message by going to Monthly 
   Assumptions Report No. 8 which deals with phasing out opening 
   balances (F2 & B). Locate the row causing the imbalance by 
   reference to an ERR message and enter new values to correctly 
   phase out the revised opening total. Recalculate (F9) to confirm 
   that model is completely error free.

By this stage, the model is likely to have incurred substantial 
short-term borrowings as indicated by the cashflow projections, 
debt/equity ratios and balance sheets and depicted in various 
graphs.  Figure out the amount of equity required to put the 
business on a sounder short- and long-term footing.  Enter this 
amount as the Proceeds of share issues in Assumption Report 
No. 7 (F10, A, M, F, PgDn, PgDn & PgDn), recalculate and then 
review the results.

Try making other changes to the monthly and quarterly assumptions 
and explore the remaining reports for months, quarters and years. 
Use the CTRL and ALT function keys to enter assumption values or 
copy assumptions, to jump between reports or split the screen, 
to erase assumptions etc. Utilise the online Help Notes, Help 
Pages, drill-down cells and the F8 position indicator & pop-up 
menu.  

Reprint the Textual Summary Report and compare the results with 
those at the start of the exercise. 

At this stage, do not save the altered model (except under a new 
file name) and do not use either the QUIK-PLAN or Advance facilities.
 
The best way to find out how EASI-PLAN operates is to use it 
with familiar values and to progressively learn, in live planning 
situations, where all the assumption and calculated variables are 
located and how they relate to each other. 
 
If it should be neccessary to find the path of a specific 
assumption through the model, the simplest approach is to 
temporarily give it a very large value, for example, 100,000, 
recalculate and then use CTRL+F2 to jump around reports when 
following the asterisks caused by calculated values overflowing 
their cells. 

To understand how specific formulae work, go to the report 
containing the computed values of special interest; use CTRL+F3 to 
split the screen; scroll up or down to the underlying assumption 
values (or use the primary function keys, including F8-Lost, even 
though their menu is not displayed); make successive changes to 
these assumptions while recalculating and watching how the 
computed values change. Alternatively, use drill-downs to move 
quickly between calculated values and their underlying assumptions. 

**********************************************************************

6. USING EASI-PLAN
==================

This Section is relevant to all new users. It offers general advice 
on using EASI-PLAN (Section 6.1) and explains in detail how to use 
it to prepare financial projections for different types of businesses 
(Section 6.2). It also discusses specific issues relating to the 
following:

        Using QUIK-PLAN (Section 6.3)

        General model-building procedure (Section 6.4)
        
        Avoiding calculation errors (Section 6.5) 

        Printing reports and graphs (Section 6.6)

        Doing sensitivity analyses (Section 6.7) 

        Rolling projections forward (Section 6.8) 

        Extracting assumptions and forecasts for use within a 
        spreadsheet (Section 6.9). 

To use EASI-PLAN to build an entirely new model of a business, it is 
necessary to first load an existing model; to give it a new file 
name; to remove all existing assumptions; and then enter the new 
assumptions. This procedure is explained in detail in Sections 
6.3 and 6.4 below. If a user regularly builds new models, it 
would be worthwhile creating and saving a blanked model with 
all its assumptions removed. 

Near the front of this text file, there is a detachable 
"How To....." chart which can be removed and used as an aide memoir.


6.1  General Advice
-------------------

When starting to prepare a new set of financial projections for a 
business, there are likely to be some very significant gaps in the 
information needed to plan effectively.  It may be necessary to 
review historic accounts and budgets to derive basic cost or sales 
data; to conduct research and analyses of the market; to identify 
alternative strategies or scenarios; to make manpower projections; 
to consider financial issues etc. EASI-PLAN can assist this process 
by helping to pose the right questions and providing feedback on 
the financial implications of possible outcomes. However, bear in 
mind that it is really only a high-powered calculating and 
printing system and its output will only be as good as the 
underlying assumptions. Refer back to Section 2 for further comments 
on the possible pitfalls in preparing projections. 

On the first occasion that EASI-PLAN is used to produce real 
projections for a business, curtail the number of monthly 
assumptions relating to sales, expenses etc. and concentrate 
initially on producing a creditable monthly profit & loss account 
for the first year. For example, start by entering just single 
rows of key assumptions for sales and use only a few rows for 
high-level direct and overhead expense payments etc.  As all 
other sales, cost and overhead assumptions will have been already 
set to zero, the number of assumptions will be manageable and it 
should be very easy to follow these through the various formulae 
and reports. Review these initial results and then progressively 
add greater detail. 

Note that assumptions can only be entered in rows opposite the 
->> or <<->> arrow signs on a printout and shown in reverse video 
on the screen.

An alternative and very effective way to start using EASI-PLAN 
is to utilise its QUIK-PLAN facility (see Section 6.3 below) to 
produce first-cut but comprehensive projections for either the 
initial twelve months or for the full three years and then to 
progressively edit and refine the original assumptions. This 
method has the advantage that the it takes a very short time to 
produce a full set of projections which give an immediate 
overview of prospects for the three years and can serve as a 
framework within which extra detail can be added. 


6.2  Structuring a Model
------------------------

EASI-PLAN is structured to suit a manufacturing, distribution or 
service business. Guide lines on using EASI-PLAN with different 
business types are provided in an Appendix in the manual 
accompanying the full version of EASI-PLAN.
 
Any assumption variables which are not needed can be left with 
zero values (displayed as .... on the screen and printed as empty 
spaces) as EASI-PLAN will run satisfactorily with only the 
minimum of assumptions relating to sales, expenses, cash 
movements, balance sheet items etc.  

A user can change, or leave blank, the descriptions of variables 
which are unsecured (displayed in reverse video in the leftmost 
column and signified by <<->>> arrows) within several of the 
Monthly Assumption Reports. To change a variable name, simply 
place the cursor over the cell containing the description and 
overwrite it. Where appropriate, the new description will be 
automatically copied into other reports when EASI-PLAN next 
recalculates. When changing a description, the replacement 
must use the exact same currency denomination, i.e. 000's, 
as the original description, otherwise formulae will not operate 
correctly.

A user, with access to a spreadsheet, can edit out redundant 
rows and variables from an EASI-PLAN model. This can be done, 
once the projections have been finalised, by using EASI-PLAN's 
Extract facility to create a spreadsheet-compatible file 
comprising all the values within the assumption and output 
reports. This extracted file can then be loaded into the 
spreadsheet and edited or summarised using a different format 
or layout. See Section 6.9 for further details.

If a business is very small or its initial level of activity 
is very low, values can be temporarily displayed on the screen 
and in reports to the nearest pound by increasing the number of 
decimal places being used to three (for example, to show 1,071 
as 1.071 instead of as 1.1). The number of places being used 
must be reduced whenever ********'s appear in cells.


6.3  Using QUIK-PLAN
--------------------

QUIK-PLAN is a special facility within EASI-PLAN for (a) producing 
simple quick and dirty projections for one/three years or (b) 
generating first-cut forecasts which can be refined and fine-
tuned from within the Monthly and Quarterly Assumption Reports. 

The entire process of producing a set of financial projections 
and an accompanying report is remarkably fast if QUIK-PLAN is 
used to generate the projections and these are subsequently 
printed in summary form as a textual report. This approach could 
be particularly useful to professional advisers, banks and 
other organisations providing front-line support to new and 
small enterprises. 

A blank form based on QUIK-PLAN's Assumptions Report is included 
as an Appendix in the full manual and can be used to manually 
capture all the key assumptions away from EASI-PLAN. 

To get started with QUIK-PLAN, load EASI-PLAN with an existing 
model, for example, enter EP(space)WORKING at the DOS prompt. Next, 
undertake the following preparatory tasks:

1. From the Main Menu, press I (for Initialise) and B (for Basic) 
   to access the Basic Data Entry Screen.

   Follow the on-screen instructions to enter the company's (not
   licensee's) name; the form of the business (limited company or 
   sole trader); the number of the first month to be covered 
   by the projections (1 for January, 2 for February etc.); the 
   year relating to the first month to be covered by the projections 
   (use 4 digits); the currency symbol to be used throughout the 
   model (preferably a single character such as $ etc.); and 
   descriptions for the two main product/sales groups most 
   appropriate to the company. These can relate to major product 
   categories, market segments, customer groups, different VAT 
   rate categories etc. Select  definitions which are most 
   relevant from the perspective of forecasting sales, material 
   costs, credit terms etc. At a later stage, sales forecasts 
   can be entered for four user-definable subgroups within each 
   main group. If a mistake is made when entering data, correct 
   it immediately using the Backspace key, otherwise repeat 
   this procedure.
        
   Once this basic data has been inserted, it will be automatically 
   entered throughout the model and the appropriate months and 
   years will be incorporated in all the report headings and graph 
   titles.

2. From the Main Menu, press I (for Initialise) and T (for Title) 
   to give the new model a specific title, for example "First 
   Attempt". This will be inserted automatically in the second 
   line of the screen and on the cover pages for each set of 
   monthly, first-year, quarterly and three-year reports.

3. From the Main Menu, press F (for File) and N (for New) to save 
   this model under a new file name using a maximum of eight 
   characters, for example, MODEL1.

As the procedure for using QUIK-PLAN is fully explained online, 
the following guidelines are only intended to serve as a general 
introduction:

  # To access QUIK-PLAN, press K (for quiK-plan) and A (for 
    Assumptions) from the Main Menu. This will bring the user 
    into the QUIK-PLAN Assumptions Report. 

  # Once assumption values have been entered into the QUIK-PLAN 
    Assumptions Report either by overwriting or zeroising any 
    existing values, run QUIK-PLAN by pressing F10 (for the Main 
    Menu), K (for quiK-plan) and R (for Run).

  # From the Main Menu, press F (for File) and B (for Backup) 
    to save the assumptions.

This completes the QUIK-PLAN process and a full set of projections, 
including a balancing opening balance sheet, will have been compiled 
for the initial twelve months and subsequent eight quarters. 
An Appendix in the full manual explains in detail how QUIK-PLAN 
handles each inputted value and indicates the additional assumptions 
which it makes to complete the projections.

Graphs and reports showing all the detailed projections can now be 
viewed on the screen or printed. For a quick synopsis, press C 
(for Calculate) within the Main Menu and view the Summary & 
Diagnosis Report, or refer to the Textual Summary Report by 
pressing R (for Report) and T (for Text) from the Main Menu. 
This report contains numerous drill-down cells which can be 
used to directly access the underlying assumptions and detailed 
projections. It can be printed (F10, R and T) or saved as an 
ASCII file (F10, F and A) for incorporation in another document.

Assumptions introduced by means of QUIK-PLAN can now be changed 
or expanded from within the Monthly & Quarterly Assumption 
Reports. To do this, start at the sixth point listed in the 
model-building procedure described in the next Section (6.4).


6.4  Model-Building Procedure
-----------------------------

If a model is being developed, without utilising QUIK-PLAN, the 
procedure is now explained in detail.  

To get started, load EASI-PLAN with an existing model, for 
example, enter EP(space)WORKING at the DOS prompt. The detailed 
procedure for building a model is explained below. 

1.  Erase all existing monthly and quarterly assumptions by pressing 
    I (for Initialise), M (for Months) and Q (for Quarters) from 
    within the Main Menu.

2.  Decide how EASI-PLAN's two main sales groups should be defined. 
    These can relate to major product categories, market segments, 
    customer groups, different VAT rate categories etc. Select 
    definitions which are the most relevant from the perspective 
    of forecasting sales, material costs, credit terms etc. At a 
    later stage, sales forecasts can be entered for four user-
    definable subgroups within each main group.

3.  From the Main Menu, press I (for Initialise) and B (for Basic) 
    to access the Basic Data Entry Screen.

    Follow the on-screen instructions to enter the company's 
    (not licensee's) name; the form of the business (limited 
    company or sole trader); the number of the first month to be 
    covered by the projections (1 for January, 2 for February 
    etc.); the year relating to the first month to be covered by 
    the projections (use 4 digits); the currency symbol to be 
    used throughout the model (preferably a single character 
    such as L, $ etc.); and descriptions for the two main 
    product/sales groups most appropriate to the company.  If 
    a mistake is made when entering this data, correct it 
    immediately using the Backspace key, otherwise repeat 
    this procedure.

    Once this basic data has been inserted, it will be 
    automatically replicated throughout the model and the 
    appropriate months and years will be incorporated in all 
    the report headings, graph titles etc.

4.  From the Main Menu, press I (for Initialise) and T (for Title) 
    to give the new model a specific title, for example "First 
    Attempt". This will be inserted automatically on the second 
    line of the screen and on the cover pages for each set of 
    monthly, first-year, quarterly and three-year reports.

5.  From the Main Menu, press F (for File) and N (for New) to save 
    this new model under a new file name (maximum of eight 
    characters), for example, MODEL1.

6.  From the Main Menu, press A (for Assumptions) and M (for 
    Months) to access the Monthly Assumption Reports sub-menu. 
    Press / (for /any) to access all monthly assumption reports, 
    or call up each report in turn, and enter forecasts and 
    assumptions. Concentrate initially on entering approximate 
    or high-level values with a view to refining them later on 
    once a full picture starts to emerge. Utilise the following aids:

      # Press F2 and I (for Index) to view a listing of monthly 
        assumption variables and their locations within Assumption 
        Reports.

      # If lost in the midst of reports, press F8 to pop up the 
        cursor position locator and a menu listing of all the 
        monthly reports.

      # Use "in-cell" arithmetic and the CTRL and ALT function keys 
        to quickly enter constant values across the twelve months, 
        copy values in rows etc. 

      # Refer to EASI-PLAN's Help Pages and Help Notes for detailed 
        guidance on entering assumptions. 

    After entering a batch of assumption values, recalculate to 
    check results using the F9 function key.  Note that the 
    calculation errors which may be indicated whenever the model 
    recalculates at this stage can be ignored until all the 
    monthly assumptions and outstanding opening balance sheet data 
    have been entered. Note that:

      - Values for the opening stocks in Assumptions Report No. 2 
        are based on values entered into the opening monthly 
        balance sheet (Drill to review or revise). 

      - Likewise, values for the opening fixed assets and 
        accumulated depreciation in Assumption Report No. 5 are 
        picked up from values entered in the opening monthly 
        balance sheet (Drill to review or revise).  

      - Assumption Report No. 8 is used to phase out the opening 
        balances for certain items in the opening balance sheet. 
        If the total values being phased out in this Report differ 
        from the values in the opening balance sheet, EASI-PLAN 
        will report an error when it next recalculates. Switch 
        to the opening balance sheet or to Report No. 8 to 
        eliminate the error by phasing out corrected values.

      - Use the graphs (F7) to keep a watch on the general 
        direction of the projections. 

      - Make regular back-up copies of the model using the B 
        (for Backup) option within the F (for File) sub-menu.

      - Finish the monthly projections before starting to enter 
        either the opening balance sheet or the quarterly 
        assumptions.

7.  From the Main Menu, press F (for File) and B (for Backup) to 
    save an updated set of assumptions.

8.  From the Main Menu, press A (for Assumptions) and B (for 
    Balance) to enter data in unsecured cells within the opening 
    balance sheet. 

    After entering all the necessary opening balance sheet values, 
    press F9 and make sure the opening balance sheet balances by 
    viewing the row for CHECK balance sheets balance immediately 
    below the opening balance sheet. If this does not show a zero 
    balance, review all the values entered for the opening balance 
    sheet. 

9.  When the opening balance sheet balances, press F9 to calculate 
    once again in order to ensure that no calculation errors arise 
    (see Section 6.5 below). 

10. Enter a prior year's actual or estimated P&L by pressing A 
    (for Assumptions) and P (for P&L) from the Main Menu.

11. Make a further back-up copy of  the model using the B (for 
    Backup) option within the F (for File) sub-menu.

    The 12-month/first-year projections have now been completed and 
    appropriate reports and graphs can be inspected on the screen 
    or printed. Assumptions can be fine-tuned and the projections 
    can be subjected to critical examination to check their veracity 
    etc.

12. To prepare projections for the second and third years, get into 
    the Quarterly Assumptions Report by pressing A (for Assumptions) 
    and Q (for Quarters) from the Main Menu (or use the F5 function 
    key). 

    The full manual contains detailed guidance on entering quarterly 
    assumptions. Refer to the calculated values for the first four 
    quarters for guidance when entering assumptions for the 
    subsequent quarters. Recalculate and ensure that no calculation 
    errors arise (see Section 6.5 below). 

13. Make a back-up copy of  the completed model using the B (for 
    Backup) option within the F (for File) sub-menu.

14. At this stage, use the C (for Calculate) option within the Main 
    Menu to do a final recalculation and view the on-screen Summary 
    & Diagnosis Report. For a quick synopsis of the final 
    projections, refer to the Textual Summary Report by pressing 
    R (for Report) and T (for Text) from the Main Menu). This 
    report contains numerous drill-down cells which can be used 
    to directly access the underlying assumptions and detailed 
    projections. It can be printed (F10, R and T) or saved as an 
    ASCII file (F10, F and A) for incorporation in another document.

15. From the Main Menu, view graphs (press V etc.), inspect reports 
    (press R etc.) and print results (press P etc.).  Refer to 
    Section 6.6 for guidance on printing reports and graphs. If 
    necessary, refer back to Section 4.3 to review procedures for 
    changing the printer strings, margins, page lengths etc. being 
    used by EASI-PLAN.  

This completes the procedure for building a three-year model. It 
can now be used in conjunction with EASI-PLAN's other facilities 
to conduct sensitivity-analysis (Section 6.7); produce rolling 
projections (Section 6.8); and export to a spreadsheet (Section 
6.9).


6.5  Avoiding Calculation Errors
--------------------------------

When using EASI-PLAN, it is essential to ensure that no calculation 
errors are created; that its four sub-models always produce 
identical results; and that no imbalances occur in the opening 
balance sheet. As explained in Section 6.4 above, a temporary 
imbalance will always occur until certain values have been 
entered in the Monthly Assumption Reports as well as in the opening 
balance sheet.

EASI-PLAN displays an on-screen message, immediately after 
recalculation, if it detects a predetermined type of calculation 
error.  These messages with explanations of causes and suggested 
solutions, are listed in the online Help Pages. The following 
procedure will help locate and eliminate errors: 

  # Check the right-hand column of a report called the Check 
    Balances Report for differences between key values computed 
    by EASI-PLAN's four sub-models. This report can be viewed 
    by pressing R (for Report) and E (for chEck) from the Main 
    Menu.

  # Scan the rows showing CHECK balance sheets balance 
    immediately below the Monthly and Quarterly Balance Sheets 
    for imbalances.

  # Examine the two tables within Monthly Assumption Report 
    No. 8 for any ERR messages.


6.6  Printing Reports & Graphs
------------------------------

When presenting financial projections, recognise the danger of 
producing too much detail or too many reports at the outset. 
Instead, make use of EASI-PLAN's summary reports and graphs to 
convey the broad picture. 

If you wish, you can supress the printing of rows containing 
zero values (i.e. with unused variables) by selecting the Z (for 
Zeros) option within the main print menu.

Refer to Section 4.3 above if it is desired to change the printer 
strings, margins, page lengths etc. being used by EASI-PLAN.  As 
EASI-PLAN sends extended ASCII files to the printer, no other 
printer configuration should be necessary. However, if the printer 
fails to print reports correctly, consult the Help Pages dealing 
with Resolving printer problems (access by pressing F1 from 
within any Print sub-menu).

A particularly useful report is EASI-PLAN's Textual Summary 
Report which summarises, in textual and tabular form, key 
projections for the three years and offers a rudimentary diagnosis 
of any problems due to the projections being out-of-line with 
generally accepted norms. It can be viewed by pressing R (for 
Reports) and T (for Text) from the Main Menu and printed by 
pressing P (for Print) and T (for Text) from the Main Menu. 

On the full version of EASI-PLAN, the Textual Summary Report 
can also be saved to disk as an ASCII file for incorporation 
in a business plan or management report by pressing F (for File) 
and A (for ASCII-Text) from the Main Menu. Note that the ASCII 
file is always saved using the name EASIPLAN.TXT and the previous 
version is automatically overwritten. If this version must be 
preserved, it should be renamed before initiating the process 
of creating a new version. (To temporarily exit from EASI-PLAN 
to DOS for this purpose, press F & T from the Main Menu). 

When importing EASIPLAN.TXT into a document, set carriage returns 
(or line feeds) at paragraph ends only and use a left-aligned, 
non-proportional font (such as Courier 10 cpi) with single-line 
spacing when formatting the imported text.

DOS's GRAPHICS program supplied can be used to print a graph 
being displayed on the screen directly to a printer. Try it 
before using EASI-PLAN with real data (or immediately after 
having saved a model file), in case the system hangs etc.

To use GRAPHICS, run it before loading EASI-PLAN by entering 
GRAPHICS at the hard disk's root directory DOS prompt. Refer 
to the DOS manual for further guidance on the range of options 
provided by the GRAPHICS program to accommodate different printer 
types etc. especially if a laser printer is being used. If this 
method of printing graphs is used frequently, it would be 
worthwhile adding the GRAPHICS command line to the batch file 
(EP.BAT) used to load EASI-PLAN before the line shown as 
EASI PLAN %1.

Having loaded GRAPHICS before running EASI-PLAN, proceed to 
display one of its graphs on the screen. Make sure the printer 
is online, press the SHIFT+PrintScreen keys and wait a short 
time while a very presentable copy of the graph on the screen 
is print (depending on the printer set-up, a page feed might 
be required to eject the printed page). 

To improve the appearance of the printed output, try changing 
the parameters used by GRAPHICS (refer to the DOS manual for 
details). Also, if using a colour monitor, change the display 
temporarily over to LCD/B&W (press I, V & L from the Main Menu) 
before printing. 

EASI-PLAN Pro contains a scecial facilty for printing graphs.
For further information refer to the on-line help pages and the
supplied text file, PICPRT.TXT.

6.7  Sensitivity Analysis
-------------------------

EASI-PLAN incorporates a very powerful sensitivity-analysis 
facility which enables a user to temporarily override existing 
assumptions and to make global changes to the following key 
variables on a month-by-month basis in the first year and on a 
quarterly basis for the following two years: 
        
                    Sales volumes 
        
                    Selling prices 
        
                    Cost of materials/packaging/goods 
        
                    Overheads 

Of course, individual assumptions or groups of assumptions can 
be changed for specific months or quarters at any stage by 
directly accessing and changing their values from within a 
Monthly or Quarterly Assumption Report. 

When using EASI-PLAN to conduct global sensitivity analysis, 
the procedure is as follows: 

  1. From the Main Menu, press S (for Sensitivity) to access 
     the Sensitivity-analysis sub-menu.      

  2. Press I (for Insert) to get into the two adjacent tables 
     which accommodate the monthly and quarterly sensitivity-
     analysis factors.  Insert values for the appropriate months 
     and/or quarters expressed as percentage changes (+ for 
     increases or - for decreases) for sales volumes, selling 
     prices, material costs and/or overheads. 

  3. When finished entering factors, press F10 and S (for 
     Sensitivity) to bring back the Sensitivity-analysis sub-menu 
     and press C (for Calculate). EASI-PLAN will recalculate the 
     entire model using the specified percentage changes and then 
     display, on the screen, the Results of Sensitivity Analysis, 
     in summary form, for the latest and previous runs.

  4. Press any key to get from this report back to the Sensitivity-
     analysis sub-menu. This sub-menu can then be used to display 
     a Sensitivity Results graph (FIG14), by pressing V (for View), 
     which compares sales and profits for the latest and previous 
     runs. This graph can be printed using the method described 
     in Section 6.6 above.

  5. Press P (for Print) to print the Results of Sensitivity 
     Analysis along with the two tables containing details of the 
     sensitivity-analysis factors. 

  6. EASI-PLAN will indicate via a small message box above the 
     Main Menu whenever it may be necessary to zeroise the 
     sensitivity-analysis factors. This is done by pressing Z 
     (for Zeroise) from within the Sensitivity-analysis sub-menu. 
     Before restoring the model to its original state, it is 
     possible to make further (compounded) changes to assumptions 
     and/or view or print any reports or graphs incorporating the 
     detailed results of the sensitivity analysis for months, 
     quarters or years. 
        
Note that when undertaking sensitivity-analysis calculations, 
EASI-PLAN makes only highly selective adjustments within its 
Monthly and Quarterly sub-models. As a consequence, some values 
in the monthly and quarterly assumption reports may not appear to 
sum correctly or to relate to their underlying assumptions. 

Generally speaking, the sensitivity-analysis factors change 
assumptions in the exact same way as could be achieved by altering 
all the underlying relevant assumptions directly.  For example, 
if monthly sales volumes are increased by a specified percentage 
using its sensitivity factor, sales turnover is increased by the 
same percentage as are stock levels, materials/goods purchases, 
direct costs (including direct labour), VAT receipts/payments, 
creditor/debtor levels etc. In contrast, an increase in selling 
prices would only increase sales turnover, VAT receipts and 
debtors while direct costs, stocks and creditors would all 
remain unchanged.


6.8  Advancing Projections
--------------------------

EASI-PLAN incorporates a facility to advance or roll forward 
its first-year assumptions and projections one month at a time. 

For example, if projections had been originally prepared for the 
twelve months commencing March 1995, the Advance facility could 
be used to replace March's assumptions (and projections) by 
April's and so on for the remaining months. It would also add 
a new twelfth column for March 1996 containing identical 
assumptions to those for February 1996. The Advance facility 
automatically updates the months and years displayed in the 
headings of reports and in the titles & axes of graphs.

The Advance facility makes EASI-PLAN ideally suited for 
preparing regularly updated 12-month rolling projections. It 
can be used every month or less frequently (by repeating 
Advance several times). Because most underlying assumptions 
should not change dramatically from month to month, the task 
of updating projections is greatly simplified and the entire 
process can be completed very quickly. This makes Advance a 
very useful management tool for short-term planning. For 
example, it could be used every month to prepare a rolling 
twelve-month profit and cashflow plan. (Invest-Tech also offers 
a range of more specialised cashflow planners which also 
incorporate an advance facility and compliment EASI-PLAN).

Before using Advance, it is advisable to save the existing 
model in case it becomes necessary to revert to the projections 
which existed prior to advancing the assumptions.

To use the Advance facility, press D (for aDvance) from the 
Main Menu and follow the on-screen instructions. Once the 
monthly assumptions have been advanced the following simple 
tasks must be performed to complete the procedure and to 
eliminate any calculation errors:

 - Update all items in the opening balance sheet (recalculate to 
   ensure that the updated opening balance sheet balances)

 - In Assumption Report No. 8, revise the values being used to 
   phase out opening balances (look out for ERR messages) based 
   on the updated opening balance sheet and review the percentage 
   distributions for current-year trade debtors and creditors  

 - Examine the validity of all assumptions for the new twelfth 
   month paying particular attention to any non-recurring items 
   which may be duplicated in the eleventh and twelfth months as 
   a result of using Advance.

 - Check all key assumptions and their timing for the other months 
   in the light of recent trading and developments.

 - If Advance has been used for several months, there may be merit 
   in reviewing the quarterly assumptions for the second and third 
   years. 

Save the updated model with an unique file name. For example, use 
the new start month and year as the file name e.g. APR95.

Once projections have been advanced, EASI-PLAN's global sensitivity 
analysis facility can be used to conduct "what-if" on the advanced 
forecasts. 


6.9  Creating a Spreadsheet File
--------------------------------

EASI-PLAN has a facility to create a spreadsheet-compatible file 
(which can be imported into Lotus 1-2-3 and many other spreadsheets) 
containing all the monthly, first-year, quarterly and three-year 
assumptions and projections relating to the model currently in 
memory. The file is laid out as a single sheet with variable 
descriptions down the left-hand column and all assumption and 
calculated values (without formulae) spread across the next 
twenty-two columns.

Possible uses of this values-only worksheet include the following:

  # Enhancement of EASI-PLAN's reports with the aid of a 
    spreadsheet publisher

  # Preparation of high-quality graphs using a specialist graphics 
    package

  # Incorporation of selected elements of EASI-PLAN's assumptions 
    and projections into other documents

  # Editing reports to remove redundant items, to combine rows or 
    reformat reports
  
  # Serving as input for other planning or detailed budgeting 
    systems

  # Combining EASI-PLAN's projections for several subsidiaries in 
    order to produce consolidated results.

Before using the Extract facility, it may be important to undertake 
the following preparations:
  
  - Make sure that there is 125k of free space on the hard disk 
    to accommodate each extracted file.

  - Temporarily replace the L symbol by the $ symbol, as the former 
    may get lost during the extraction process, by pressing B (for 
    Basic) within the I (for Initialise) sub-menu etc. The L sign 
    can be restored later by using the search/replace function 
    within the spreadsheet. If this is not done, try using the 
    spreadsheet's search/replace facility to replace the solid 
    block symbol (ALT+254) by the  symbol from within the 
    spreadsheet once extraction has been completed.

To create a spreadsheet-compatible file, press F (for File) and X 
(for eXtract) and enter a new file name. This name will be 
automatically given a WKB file extension. 

A *.WKB file can be loaded by 1-2-3 and very many other 
spreadsheets (such as Symphony, Quattro, Excel and SuperCalc), 
which can import and read files based on the 1-2-3 format.

After loading a WKB file into a spreadsheet, the following tasks 
should be undertaken to set up the extracted file:

  -  Hide columns C-E & S
  -  Set column A to width 32, B to 3, C-R to 7 and T-W to 9
  -  Set the global format to one decimal place
  -  Globally protect all values and descriptions
  -  Remove all the range names accompanying the extracted file 
  -  Change the formats for the year numbers in the title rows from 
     quarters, months and years to integer
  -  If necessary, search/replace the $ symbol by the L sign.

The following comments will help a user to utilise the extracted 
file within the spreadsheet:

  # The quarterly and three-year titles are located at the very 
    top of the worksheet in rows 1-4.

  # The monthly and first-year titles are located at rows 274-277. 
  
  # To  view only the first-year or three-year assumptions and 
    projections, hide columns G to S.

EASI-PLAN is supplied with a special format file (EASIPLAN.FMT) 
which can be used with WYSIWYG, the spreadsheet publisher supplied 
with most releases of Lotus 1-2-3, for displaying or printing an 
extracted file. To use it, proceed as follows after having extracted 
a file:

 - Use DOS to make a copy of the supplied file (EASIPLAN.FMT) to 
   coincide with the name of the newly extracted spreadsheet-
   compatible file (for example, called newfile.wkb) as follows:
               
               copy   easiplan.fmt   newfile.fmt

 - Load the spreadsheet along with its publisher and retrieve 
   the extracted WKB file with the newly-named FMT file

 - Hide columns C-E and S

 - If using a 10-point font as the default, set the remaining 
   column widths as follows:

                A to 19, B to 4, F-R to 7 and T-W to 9

 - Set the global format to one decimal place
 
 - Remove all the range names accompanying the extracted file 
 
 -  Change the formats for the year numbers in the title rows 
    from quarters, months and years to integer
   
 - If necessary, search/replace the $ symbol by the L sign.

EASI-PLAN's assumptions and projections cannot be changed within 
a spreadsheet as only values without any related formulae are 
extracted from the EASI-PLAN  model.

**********************************************************************
   
7.  SUPPORT & ASSISTANCE
========================

EASI-PLAN has been supplied as shareware at minimal cost to
enable users to try it out before registering etc. 

We regret that we can only provide support to EASI-PLAN users
who have registered with us and secured a copy of EASI-PLAN with
its comprehensive manual.

Registered users of EASI-PLAN Lite who wish to upgrade to EASI-PLAN 
Pro, the more powerful version, can do so at a discount to the 
normal price (see README.TXT).

In addition to EASI-PLAN, Invest-Tech offers an extensive range of 
business and financial planning packages for use by businesses. 
As the same basic structures, menus etc. are used throughout the 
product range, conversion from one product to another would be
very straightforward fro a EASI-PLAN user.

General information about these other products is contained in 
Help Pages within EASI-PLAN and in README.TXT. More comprehensive 
details can be obtained by contacting Invest-Tech.

Invest-Tech also provides a model-building service on a fee-paying 
basis to expand or modify EASI-PLAN to meet a user's particular 
requirements.  This work is undertaken on a confidential basis 
and to the highest professional standards in accordance with the 
Code of Professional Conduct of the Institute of Management 
Consultants in Ireland and the UK.  

Invest-Tech would welcome feedback from users and invites 
suggestions relating to EASI-PLAN. 

**********************************************************************
EASI-PLAN (c) Copyright Invest-Tech Limited 1993-95   
All Rights Reserved     

    Invest-Tech Limited  
    27 Ardmeen Park, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
    
    Irish Tel: 01-283 4083      UK Tel: 01232-315454
      (Call 9 to 9 weekdays and 10 to 6 weekends - GMT/BST)  
    Fax: 278 2391 
      Fax codes: Irish:01-  UK:00-353-1-  Inter'l:+353-1-
    
    CompuServe:    100606,2665
    Internet:      brianf@iol.ie
    WWW Site URL:  http://www.planware.ie/resource/planware
  
**********************************************************************
     To view this file page-by-page, type "TYPE MANUAL.TXT|MORE"
            To print this file, type "PRINT MANUAL.TXT".

                  *** End of MANUAL.TXT file ***
