Concept definition 

This article shows how to use the three available input methods in PMI—manual, even and source definition—to enter values for revenue, cost of goods sold (COGS), or other expenses in the Planning module. 

These methods can be used across different divisions and profit centers. Understanding when and how to use each one gives you the flexibility to enter values that match the real-world behavior of each account. 

Formula or logic 

There’s no single formula for all input methods, but here’s how they function logically: 

• Manual entry – You enter the value for each month individually. 

• Even – Applies a fixed value per month. 

• Source definition – Calculates revenue based on other sources or drivers (e.g., a percentage of another revenue account). 

Worked examples 

Let’s say you’re forecasting for the year: 

Below are visual examples of how you enter revenue using each method in the Planning module.  

Input methods

Manual entry 

In this example, we are entering €1,000 per month for Shop G’s rental income, which rises to €2,000 in May. 

1. Enter a value in each month’s field. 

2. Click save 

Even function 

In this example, we are entering a cost of €50 for Newspaper for all months of the year. 

1. Click the three dots next to the account.

2. Click Even. 

3. Enter a value to apply it evenly across the period.

4. Click OK. 

5. Click Save.

Note: PMI fills in the values for each month automatically. 

Source definition 

In this example, we are entering the COS Parking cost as 10% of the Parking revenue. 

1. Click the pencil next to the account to open the Source Definition tab.

2. Click the plus sign. 

3. Enter the ratio of .10. 

4. Click Save/Update.  

Interpretation 

• Use manual when you need precise control over each month’s revenue and costs, especially if values vary due to seasonality or special events. 

• Use even when you have an annual target that should be distributed equally across the planning period—such as fixed lease income from parking spaces or retail outlets. 

• Use source definition when the revenue is based on another existing value—for example, if your hotel collects a 10% commission on spa sales, you can set that up as a source definition linked to Spa revenue. 

Common mistakes 

• Assuming even splits a total amount evenly across the months, it actually applies a fixed value per month. 

• Applying manual entries without proper documentation, leading to inconsistencies or difficulty in updating later. 

• Using source definition without verifying the linked source has been properly forecasted in the originating module. 

Use cases 

• Use even when you have a total revenue amount to spread equally across the forecast period, like event hosting fees received annually. 

• Use source definition when revenue is based on another variable, such as calculating 10% of Spa revenue as commission income. 

• Use manual when revenue varies month-to-month or is based on non-repeating events, such as private bookings or irregular service sales.