ACCA Advanced Performance Management (APM) FAQs

1. What is the structure of the ACCA Advanced Performance Management (APM) exam?

The APM exam consists of two sections:

• Section A: A 50-mark case study question focusing on topics from syllabus sections A, C, and D.
• Section B: Two 25-mark questions. One question primarily focuses on a topic from syllabus section E, supported by topics from other sections, while the other question can cover any part of the syllabus. All questions are compulsory .

2. How does Advanced Performance Management differ from Performance Management?

Advanced Performance Management (APM) builds on the knowledge gained in the Performance Management (PM) paper, which is at the Applied Skills level. APM focuses more on the synthesis and evaluation of performance management techniques and introduces specialized techniques and current issues in the field. It expects candidates to apply strategic management accounting techniques in various business contexts.

3. What are the core topics covered in the APM syllabus?

The APM syllabus includes:

• Strategic Planning and Control: Models and frameworks for planning and monitoring organizational performance.
• Performance Management Information Systems: Design and impact of technological advancements on these systems.
• Strategic Performance Measurement: Techniques for measuring and managing performance.
• Performance Evaluation: Assessing and improving organizational performance through various methods and techniques.
• Risk and Uncertainty in Decision-Making: Techniques to manage and mitigate risks in performance management .

4. How can candidates prepare for the APM exam?

Effective preparation strategies include:

• Utilizing ACCA-approved study materials: Books, revision kits, and online resources such as those from Kaplan and OpenTuition.
• Practicing past exam questions: Familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions asked in the exam.
• Engaging with technical articles: Read ACCA’s technical articles and examiner reports to understand common pitfalls and examiner expectations.
• Attending courses: Enroll in ACCA-approved courses or use free online resources like lectures and notes from OpenTuition .

5. Are there any specific tools or techniques candidates need to know for the APM exam?

Yes, candidates should be familiar with various strategic management accounting techniques and performance management frameworks. Knowledge of tools like Mendelow’s matrix, balanced scorecards, and performance pyramid models is crucial. Understanding modern developments in performance management and being able to apply these techniques to case study scenarios is also important .

For more detailed information and resources, visit the ACCA Global APM page and OpenTuition’s APM section.

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