Roll forward in iXBRL Explained
In the realm of financial reporting, the concept of a ‘roll forward’ plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless transition of financial data from one period to the next.
Traditionally in accounting, this process involves updating the balance of a line item, ensuring that the closing balance of the previous period serves as the opening balance for the current one. This practice is foundational for maintaining the continuity and accuracy of financial records over time.
As we transition into the digital age with iXBRL, this concept takes on a new dimension. The roll forward feature in iXBRL serves a similar purpose—it allows for the efficient updating of XBRL documents to reflect the latest reporting period while preserving the integrity and comparability of the data. This introduction lays the groundwork for understanding how roll forward functionality operates within the iXBRL framework, ensuring that financial statements are both accurate and compliant with regulatory standards.
Roll Forward in iXBRL
XBRL statements are being prepared by companies once every quarter or every year depending on the regulatory requirements of each country. Updating an XBRL document for a new period requires four types of changes to be managed:
1. Changes in the columns of data being disclosed (Month to date, Quarter to date etc)
2. Changes in the rows of data being disclosed (new line items, etc)
3. Changes to taxonomy
4. Removal of extensions to taxonomy because of changes in taxonomy
A good XBRL preparation mechanism should incorporate a “roll forward” feature whereby a past financial statement (with its foot notes) could be used to create a template for the new period preserving as much of the data as is possible/necessary so that preparation for the new period is quick and easy.
The Roll forward feature enables carrying forward taxonomy elements used in the past period to represent current period tags.The benefits of roll forward in XBRL tagging are:
a. It ensures the consistency of tags used during the previous and the current XBRL filing period
b. Provides the users with the option of retaining previous period tags, or re-tagging financial facts against different taxonomy elements for the current period
Implementing roll forward calls for in depth knowledge of the taxonomy. When taxonomy changes take place, the roll forward process should ensure that:
a. Taxonomy elements used in previous period are retained to tag the corresponding facts for the current period.
b. Certain previous period elements are replaced with more appropriate taxonomy elements for current period.
Example: The current period fact is tagged with a child concept compared to the previous period where it was tagged with a higher-level concept, say, parent element. This change might happen due to additional disclosure provided in the financial report.
c. Additional taxonomy elements are tagged against new facts found in the current period source document.
d. Deprecated element tags (elements removed in the new taxonomy) from previous period are removed from the current period tags and relevant current year taxonomy elements are used.
Implementing roll forward in a tagging tool calls for expertise in two areas: accounting standards and software development. DataTracks’ iXBRL software supports the roll forward feature. When an entity or accounting firm outsources its iXBRL conversion, DataTracks will ensure that:
a. Current period and previous period facts are tagged to the same element, for cases where previous period filing was done in iXBRL
b. Customers are informed of any changes in tagging decisions that overrides previous period tags.
c. For first time iXBRL filers, current period facts alone are tagged
Customers can benefit from the roll forward process by providing DataTracks with the instance document of the previous year. If customers have used DataTracks services for previous period, DataTracks would automatically apply the roll forward procedure using their previous period file.
Harnessing the Power of Automation in XBRL Preparation
In the ever-evolving landscape of financial reporting, the advent of automation in XBRL preparation has emerged as a catalyst for efficiency and accuracy. The roll forward feature in iXBRL, when coupled with automated processes, offers a robust framework for managing the intricacies of financial data across reporting periods.
Efficient Roll Forward Process
Automation leverages advanced algorithms to manage updates in the XBRL document seamlessly. It can intelligently adjust the columns for time-related data—like transitioning from ‘Month to date’ to ‘Quarter to date’—and update rows to include new line items. This automated handling of data mitigates the risk of human error and ensures a swift transition between periods.
Accuracy and Consistency
One of the most significant advantages of automation is the consistency it brings to the XBRL tagging process. By using automated tools, companies can ensure that the tags used in previous periods are accurately carried forward to the current filings, maintaining the fidelity of financial reports.
Time and Cost Savings
Automated XBRL preparation tools dramatically reduce the man-hours required for data entry and verification. By minimizing the labor-intensive aspects of financial reporting, organizations can reallocate their valuable resources to more strategic tasks, thus optimizing overall costs and improving productivity.
Adapting to Taxonomy Updates
Automated solutions like those provided by DataTracks excel at adapting to the frequent changes in taxonomies. They ensure that new taxonomy elements are integrated smoothly, extensions from previous taxonomies are updated or removed as needed, and all tagging decisions are in line with the most current standards.
The implementation of automated tools in XBRL reporting is not just about keeping up with technology; it’s about embracing a strategic advantage. DataTracks’ sophisticated iXBRL software embodies this innovation, offering a comprehensive solution that mitigates the complexities of regulatory reporting. For firms aiming to streamline their reporting process, automation is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.
DataTracks UK is a leading provider of XBRL services to Accounting Firms and Businesses. DataTracks provides iXBRL Tagging Services to help companies convert their financial statements and tax computations to iXBRL format for filing with HMRC. All DataTracks services are provided through an easy to use e-commerce portal. User can register, create entities, place orders, pay, upload files and download iXBRL output when ready. DataTracks developed its XBRL conversion software in-house, and was designed to support roll forward. As a result, clients are assured of consistency in tagging to their iXBRL documents and conforming to the latest taxonomy.
The views expressed are that of the author’s and DataTracks is not responsible for the contents or views expressed therein. If any part of this blog is incorrect, inappropriate or violates the IP rights of any person, please alert us at ceo@datatracks.co.uk. We will take immediate action to correct any violation.