In lump sum budgeting, what is primarily allocated?

In lump sum budgeting, the core concept is the allocation of a fixed amount of money for the entire program rather than dividing the budget into smaller amounts for various sub-functions or activities. This approach allows for more flexibility in how the allocated funds are spent across different needs within the program, as administrators can allocate resources to areas they deem most critical without the constraints of predetermined limits for each specific category. It emphasizes overall fiscal management and allocates a total lump sum, which can be adjusted as needed during the course of the program, making it easier to manage unforeseen expenses or shifts in priorities. This contrasts with approaches that allocate fixed amounts for each sub-function or discrete activities, which are more rigid and potentially less adaptable to changing circumstances.