What is the basis of the operating budget?

The operating budget is fundamentally based on accrual accounting, which recognizes revenues and expenses when they are incurred, regardless of when cash is exchanged. This allows for a more accurate representation of a company's financial position, as it aligns income and expenses to the period in which they occur.

Accrual accounting also provides a clearer picture of the operational performance, enabling businesses to plan more effectively by considering both expected revenues and associated expenses that will be incurred during the budget period. This enhances decision-making, resource allocation, and financial forecasting within the business.

In contrast, cash basis accounting recognizes revenues and expenses only when cash is actually received or paid, which may not reflect the company's obligations and performance during a specific time frame. Other concepts like cost-benefit analysis and zero-based budgeting serve different purposes in financial planning and management but do not serve as the primary foundation for the operating budget.