Design of a Microsoft Excel-Based Cost Budget Application for a University Fun Walk Event

Purpose: This study aims to design and implement a Microsoft Excel-based Rencana Anggaran Biaya (RAB) application for the fun walk event of Universitas Catur Insan Cendekia (CIC), Cirebon, to improve manual budgeting processes that are time-consuming and error-prone.

Research Methodology: A Research and Development (R&D) approach using the 4-D model was applied. Data were obtained through observation and literature review. The system was developed through concept, design, development, testing, and distribution stages, producing an Excel-based tool for budgeting, participant registration, income–expenditure tracking, and variance analysis with charts.

Results: Planned cash-in was IDR 20,000,000, while actual cash-in was IDR 15,500,000, resulting in a 22.5% unfavorable variance. Planned cash-out was IDR 12,105,000 and actual cash-out was IDR 11,174,000, producing a 7.7% favorable variance. The system automated calculations and provided clear financial reporting.

Conclusions: The Excel-based RAB application improves efficiency, accuracy, and transparency in event budgeting without requiring specialized software.

Limitations: The system was tested on a single event and does not include full accounting features such as accruals or asset tracking.

Contributions: This study provides a practical Excel-based budgeting template and a simple variance analysis model for university event management.