Creating Scenarios

This article explains how to create scenarios in Model Reef.

You will learn:

• How scenarios are represented as separate models.

• How to create new scenarios from an existing base case.

• How to name and organise scenario models in your workspace.

1. Scenarios as separate models

In Model Reef:

• Every scenario is a full model with its own branches, variables, drivers and Data Library.

• There is no scenario dropdown inside a single model file.

• You create scenarios by duplicating models and changing assumptions.

This keeps each scenario isolated and easier to audit and reason about.

2. Creating a scenario from a base model

Typical workflow:

1

Build or import a base model

Start with a model that represents your base case.

2

Duplicate the base model

In the workspace, use the Duplicate / Copy model action on the base.

3

Name the new model as a scenario

Give the new model a scenario-style name, for example:

• Client - FY25 - Base

• Client - FY25 - Upside

• Client - FY25 - Downside

The new model is now an independent scenario.

3. What is copied when you create a scenario

When you duplicate a model, Model Reef copies:

• Branch structure.

• All variables and timing settings.

• All drivers and Data Library entries.

• All imports (Xero, QuickBooks, PDF, Excel, CSV, ticker data).

• All dashboards and custom reports.

• All valuation settings and assumptions.

The scenario starts identical to the base at the time of duplication, then evolves independently.

4. Organising scenarios in the workspace

To keep scenarios manageable:

• Group related scenarios in a single folder.

• Use clear naming such as Base, Downside, Upside, Stress.

• Include the planning year or project in the name, for example FY25 or Project Alpha.

• Optionally keep a separate folder for archived or superseded scenarios.

Good organisation makes it obvious which model corresponds to which scenario.

5. When to create a new scenario

Create a separate scenario model when:

• You want materially different assumptions (growth, pricing, cost, capex, funding).

• You are preparing clearly defined cases for stakeholders.

• You want to test structural changes without touching the base model.

• You need distinct valuation assumptions, capital structures or risk cases.

Small tweaks can be handled within one model. Larger narrative changes merit a dedicated scenario.

Related articles

• Cloning Scenarios

• Branch Assignment

• Current Liabilities

• Scenarios & Planning