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Federal Cloud Automation

Posted on January 8, 2024January 6, 2025 by Complete Controller

According to a report prepared by GAO (Government Accountability Office) last year, ten major federal agencies spend over $337 million yearly to support IT systems between the ages of 8 and 51. However, the statistics show a deviation from the push towards the cloud and modernization that the companies need to adopt.

Innovation and cloud computing work in tandem, and it’s hard to define one without the other. Cloud computing supports many emerging technologies, such as automation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Automation, in particular, requires extensive manual processes to allow workers the necessary time to learn automation for efficient results.

In retrospect, a high percentage (60% to 80%) of human resource, finance, and procurement tasks are automatable. Moreover, the adoption has resulted in organizations saving at least 30% of the net cost. Other research depicted that resources worth $40 billion—$80 billion could be transferred to other value-added practices.

Several federal agencies opt for automation to conduct their day-to-day operations in the modern era. For instance, NASA currently powers George Washington, the first digital bot run by the government. Due to its automation capabilities, the bot handles a variety of HR and procurement practices.

Another automated feature the government uses is the bilingual chatbot Emma, which works for the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Emma was named after the renowned poet Emma Lazarus and answers questions. The US Army works with the chatbot Sgt—-Star, which handles inquiries about joining their services.

“Modernization is a constant state of change and part of the day-to-day business of technology at every agency.”
– Cloud Smart Strategy.

A Solution Like Never Before – An Integrated Cloud Data Management System

Data links old systems with new ones. In other words, if agencies want to transform their infrastructure, they must efficiently move their data to these systems and use it for future operations.

However, federal organizations need a robust cloud-based data management system to ensure these modernized legal systems work proactively. The system can provide a single, secure source of on-premises data integrated into the cloud.

Moreover, the cloud platform’s flexibility can allow it to collaborate well with various hardware and software components. Statistics by Deloitte show that the government sector can save 1.2 billion working hours by involving automation in their ranks.

Agencies should invest time during the design phase to combine automation and cloud systems for a high-function IT service model. They need to understand the nature of their data and technology to determine the gap between them and devise practices to fill it. In hindsight, the following steps are mandatory to implement cloud-based automation.

Develop an implementation plan.
Establish a sound infrastructure that will test and modify the plan.
Deploy software for daily operations.
Monitor the pivotal points and perform exceptional operational steps.
Commence work on the next plan.

Moreover, it is recommended that federal organizations should use tools that complement each other. In other words, old systems work well with older operations and require manual monitoring. However, automated systems reduce risks substantially by developing, testing, delivering, remediating, and monitoring practices.

They need to determine which tools fit in which category and whether they are compatible with them. With enough knowledge and robust planning, federal agencies can perfectly embrace automation. According to research by Garter, around 22% of the national budget is spent on cloud transformation. At the same time, approximately 20.6% of the local governments’ expenses are spent on the cloud.

Practices to Improve the Impact of Cloud-Based Automation

Develop application programming interfaces from the start

APIs are the future of development since you can connect everything with them. They permit automated backend access to any application, regardless of its age. With the help of APIs on multiple applications, the agencies can create special programmatic software to work with them.

Infrastructure as code

Another effective practice is using the IAC descriptive model. This method is used by the DevOps team, which sources the code for every project deployment. It also enables the development team to perform production by losing the monitoring of the operations team.

Avoid creating silos

Simplicity is the key to success, so it’s unnecessary to go overboard and create silos. Previously, organizations had little to no success building and sharing infrastructures among departments. However, with the help of APIs, the agencies can attain a single set of tools for various applications.

Conclusion

When people talk about innovation, their minds tend to focus on the big picture, such as massive systems, architectures, etc. On the contrary, the essential aspect of modernization is data and how different systems utilize it. The transformation can only be successful if the agencies integrate data exceptionally and optimize their operations.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Vacation Tips: Small Business Owners

Posted on January 8, 2024January 6, 2024 by Complete Controller

When you speak to most small business owners and inquire about their last vacation, they will tell you they never take one. However, every working person should take a vacation at some point, or they can get burned out, and the business could suffer.

While it is easy for an employee to take time off, this can prove challenging for the small business owner, especially those businesses that don’t have a staff to cover while the owner is away. Instead of continuing to skip a much-needed vacation, it is suggested that you take steps to take off time from your business and take the perfect vacation.

Close the Business

If your business has no other employees to run it while you’re away, you can close for your vacation. Does that sound too easy? You can take additional steps to ensure you still have customers to return to when you return.

Inform regular customers of your absence via email, text, or call. This personal touch will make your regular customers feel cared for and ensure they will be there when you return.
Set your business email to an automatic reply that you are away and will reply upon return.
If you have a storefront, hang a closed sign in the window or on the door.

Some things to remember for security: don’t be too specific on the times you will be gone, especially with the closed sign. Also, if you have a walk-up business, secure any valuables at home.

Ask Someone to Business-Sit

If you don’t have employees, if you have a trusted family member or friend that can take care of business while you’re gone, this will ensure you keep the business going while getting that much-needed R & R. Having a friend or family member that is not regularly involved with your business run it in your absence is only suggested if your business is uncomplicated or will suffer in your absence.

Let an Employee Take Over

Ideally, if you have any employees, they would run the business in your absence. If you have a trusted employee who can take care of business while enjoying your vacation, leave them to it. Your absence allows your employees to show what they can do without you. If it goes well, you may take more time off or even promote an employee to manage your business and open up time to pursue other ambitions.

Make it a Mini-Vacation

Sometimes, you only need a little time away from the business to recharge your batteries. Instead of taking a week or two-week vacation or traveling far, limit the time and distance. Sometimes, a long weekend, day trip, or staycation at home is all you need to get some much-needed time away. Keeping it close or short would minimize the impact on your business operations.

Plan a Staycation

Staycations have become more prevalent in the last few decades because, often, people don’t have the time or resources to take a significant vacation. A staycation can be the perfect way to get away without going far. You can stay at a local hotel, visit a spa for a day, or swap houses with a friend.

There are several ways to plan and implement a staycation, even at home, and plan a fun day. No matter the plan, you are close to home and, most importantly, to your business should it need you. This type of vacation can be an excellent option for business owners who have difficulty leaving their business to take time off.

Conclusion

Vacations are a must, especially for small business owners, as they typically work more hours a day than anyone. Many will not take time off for fear that the business will suffer in their absence. This short guide shows you can take a vacation and keep your business safe while relaxing and destressing. Just be sure to take lots of pics to share!

Choosing the Right Business for You

Posted on January 8, 2024July 16, 2024 by Complete Controller

Embarking on a new business venture may seem like a daunting journey, especially without prior experience. Yet, the dedication and long hours invested will undoubtedly yield rewarding results once the business takes off. It’s crucial to pursue a business idea fueled by passion. It’s a proven truth that individuals who love what they do tend to achieve greater success and happiness. Stay motivated and inspired, as the journey toward establishing a thriving business will be immensely fulfilling!

The entrepreneurial spirit is a common aspiration among many individuals. The desire to establish and run one’s own business is a goal that resonates with countless people. The first thing a person needs to do is choose what kind of business they can do. Finding the right business can be challenging, so it is always better to pick something currently in demand in the market. Once the idea is there, it is time to start implementing that properly.

Below are a few handy tips that will teach a person how to choose the right business for them:

Identifying Strengths

Embracing your strengths is the key to thriving in any endeavor, especially when launching a new business. Although venturing into entrepreneurship may seem daunting, it’s an exciting opportunity to explore uncharted territory. Before you embark on this journey, it’s crucial to confidently recognize your strengths and pursue an endeavor that truly resonates with your abilities. Let’s leverage your strengths and passion to make your business dreams a reality!

Passion vs. Consumer Need

Pick something exciting is one thing. However, to be truly a success, a person needs to choose something that is in high demand. A person needs to ensure the business is about something people want and will pay to get.

Choosing the Right Market is Important

It is very important to choose the right market when starting a new business. If the business is about cars, make sure it is located near a car market. If the business is about food, make sure it is located near a food marketplace. If a person feels like the space they are located in is not a good spot for their business, switch immediately.

Knowing Financial Limitations

Regardless of how great a business opportunity is, a person should never go above their financial limitations. According to experts, it is better to calculate the main startup cost for a business and the time it will take to start earning. A person should only start a business that fits under their financial capabilities.

Always Think Long-Term

A good commercial chance should only be based on a long-standing tendency instead of a short one. Do the research and look at that business from every angle. Is that a growing industry? How much competition is there? Once a person has everything properly evaluated, it’s time to go for it.

Test a Business Idea Before Fully Implementing It

Regardless of how much experience a person has, they should do whatever they can to take their business idea through the trial phase to find out whetherthat idea is worth a shot or not. Sometimes, an idea looks great at first, but after it is properly implemented, it seems dull or fails to meet expectations. It is cheaper for a new business first to try it and see what happens before jumping in with both feet.

Conclusion

Embarking on a new business venture is a thrilling adventure, brimming with exhilarating highs and invigorating challenges. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions, but the key is to embrace the excitement and face the fears head-on. Every aspiring entrepreneur will encounter tough days, but it’s essential to stay resilient and take ownership of both the successes and setbacks. It’s okay to consider the worst-case scenarios, but it’s equally important to harness your passion, ambition, and unwavering dedication.

Experts affirm that successful businesses are born from the perfect blend of passion, determination, and hard work. Trust your instincts and let your inner drive guide you, but ensure that it’s supplemented with strategic planning. Establish clear business goals and methodically work towards achieving them. By embracing this advice, you are certain to enhance your chances of success. Stay focused, believe in your dreams, and enjoy the journey towards achieving your goals!

Mining’s Tech Revolution

Posted on January 7, 2024January 6, 2024 by Complete Controller

Challenges in the Current Mining Landscape

The global mining industry is under immense pressure with the current economic climate and worldwide challenges. In the short term, commodity prices are falling, slowing down the cash flow for mining companies.

Existing mining businesses face declining ore-body-replacement rates in the long term, while new mine-development rates are increasing. The overall statistics of mining operations have fallen 28% from their productivity in the last decade.

The mining industry is now focusing on improving productivity by utilizing existing assets, but how long will that last? Mining will need to transition into new operating methods to thrive and grow. Sound technological innovation is essential to achieve this transformation.

Technological Transformation in Mining

The technological advances that can be used in mining are affordable and will improve productivity, propelling the long-standing industry into the future. This new technology must be comprehensive, understand the resource base, materials optimization, and equipment flow, and anticipate failures in the system.

These technology advancements are only possible through reliable automation and real-time performance monitoring. The technology must also incorporate the high safety standards required by law for mining businesses.

Current State and Future Outlook

The present analysis shows that global mining operations have significantly decreased by 3 to 5% last year. This analysis covers mining across all geographic areas, commodities, and mining businesses. Researchers cannot agree on the cause of the decline. However, they all agree that the decline is occurring and that something has to be done to save the mining industry.

The overall deterioration in the mining industry has caused most companies to have reduced operations. This reduction could be the only way to save a mining company suffering from the current economic climate and any future economic issues.

To improve productivity and save the mining industry, companies have to improve productivity by embracing current technology. Mining businesses are severely behind in technology, so to bring companies into the modern age, they must embrace mining technology and automation advancements.

Technological Advancements and Operational Challenges

Mining differs from other industries in that it continues to use heavy machinery and core resources to operate. Also, mining occurs in extreme and remote environments, adding to the dangers other industries don’t have to face.

Because mining requires heavy equipment and often operates in these dangerous and remote locations, transporting the necessary equipment involves bringing it in by roads that are not ideal and sometimes by air. This type of transport can be costly and time-consuming, causing financial strain on mining companies.

Equipment maintenance can also be challenging because of the extreme environments in which mining occurs. Therefore, modern technology can provide better equipment and transport and automate some processes, making it safer for workers, the equipment, and the environment.

Smart Planning and Advanced Analytics in Mining

Smart planning is necessary to improve productivity and eliminate variability holding back the mining industry and related businesses. Advanced analytics has improved complex ore-processing operations. Therefore, mining operations in copper, phosphate, nickel, and platinum brought $20 billion to $50 billion yearly since adding the analytics.

Mining has been one of the oldest and most profitable industries for centuries. Mining-related businesses have provided a great deal of wealth to owners, stockholders, and other investors. However, mining was also falling behind other industries in technological innovation.

Navigating Challenges Through Technology

The uncertainty and variability in resources, the environment, and weather make it one of the most challenging industries to navigate. Therefore, technology and the advancements it offers mining are the keys to its continued growth and profitability to stakeholders in mining-related businesses.

As we progress in technological advancements that will allow mining businesses to continue growing and thriving, we will see that it is possible to use technology in one of the oldest industries worldwide. Embracing the technology and making it work will leave mining in an excellent position for the next generation of mining businesses, owners, and workers.

Conclusion

The mining industry is facing a critical moment due to economic challenges and global uncertainties. Commodity prices have fallen, and ore-body-replacement rates are decreasing, leading to a 28% decline in productivity over the past decade. However, there is hope for transformation through technological innovation. Embracing affordable and comprehensive technological solutions that optimize resources, anticipate failures, and prioritize safety can be the industry’s salvation.

Global mining operations are experiencing a 3 to 5% decrease, prompting a sense of urgency for action despite unclear causes. Mining companies must overcome technological inertia and adopt modern technology, automation, and smart planning to secure long-term prosperity. The use of advanced analytics has shown promising results, contributing billions annually.

Despite being a profitable industry, mining has been slow to innovate technologically, making adopting technology crucial for continued growth and profitability in the face of complexity. Amid the uncertainty, technology is the compass guiding the mining industry toward a future that ensures its resilience and relevance for the next generation of businesses, owners, and workers.

Digital Tools: Implementation

Posted on January 7, 2024January 6, 2024 by Complete Controller

Marketing is one of the most critical aspects of business, whether startups or existing businesses are looking to grow. While traditional marketing plans that have worked for decades are still effective, the online environment, social media, and how people consume entertainment have moved marketing in a new direction.

If you want your business to be successful today, you must implement digital marketing options. There are a few essential factors to consider when implementing digital marketing plans. There are also different types of marketing you can use. For the most success, you can use them all. However, implementing any of them can bring success to your business.

Here are four crucial areas of focus in digital marketing and how to implement them.

Audience

Before launching any successful digital marketing campaign, you must determine your target audience to purchase your product or services. The factors you need to consider are age, gender, and region.

Some products and services don’t have specific targets that fall in all three of those areas. For example, those needing a plumber won’t need to be of a particular range of age or gender, but they will need to be in the same area as the plumber they hire.

Products rarely have a general audience that covers a multitude of demographics. Whether it be age, gender, beliefs, or region, you need to find that audience and, in some cases, a combination of them. For example, if you have a hair and nail salon, generally, that will be used by women and in a specific region. Therefore, you would focus your marketing primarily on women in your area. You might also focus on a particular age.

Once your audience is determined, it’s time to build content. Content can be anything from Tweets of 140 characters or less to keyword-heavy blog posts on your website. The most crucial factor to remember is that content aims to drive people to your product or services. When composing posts or ads, keywords are the primary focus.

Adding eye-catching visuals when possible can boost the effectiveness of your content. The most important thing to remember when it comes to content is to be on brand and leave no doubt to the consumer about what you offer and how to get it.

Social Media Platforms

When it comes to marketing, people might think more is more, but that is not necessarily true. If you are a business with a large and well-funded marketing department, you can afford to post on every social media platform. However, small to mid-sized businesses must be more thoughtful and choose a few platforms on which to work. The fab four to focus on would be Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), and YouTube.

Other sites to consider are Snapchat and TikTok. Both had a substantial market share among social media platforms and are climbing in popularity regarding digital marketing. The four mentioned have remained strong, with no signs of slowing down soon. Therefore, they are where you should focus your primary digital marketing strategies.

Email Marketing

Email marketing is still a strong contender when it comes to digital marketing. Some services will assist you in launching email campaigns, but you still have to understand your target customer. A successful email marketing strategy will drive customers in and stay.

Customers who subscribe through your website or business page expect occasional updates, not daily inbox-stuffing emails they will delete. Most customers are comfortable with weekly or biweekly emails featuring relevant content.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the evolving marketing landscape demands a strategic embrace of digital options for business success. Determining and understanding your target audience, crafting compelling content, leveraging selective social media platforms, and maintaining a robust email marketing strategy are pivotal.

While traditional marketing plans retain effectiveness, integrating digital approaches enhances reach and engagement. The synergy of these digital marketing pillars positions businesses to thrive in a dynamic market, driving customer acquisition and sustaining lasting success.

Managerial Accounting Insights

Posted on January 7, 2024June 14, 2025 by Complete Controller

By: Jennifer Brazer

Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.

Fact Checked By: Brittany McMillen

Managerial Accounting Insights: Key Strategies for Success

Managerial accounting insights provide the internal financial intelligence businesses need to make strategic decisions, optimize costs, and drive sustainable growth through data-driven analysis of operations, budgets, and performance metrics. These insights transform raw financial data into actionable strategies that help business owners identify inefficiencies, forecast cash flow accurately, and align resources with strategic objectives.

Research shows that only 19-25% of companies currently use advanced forecasting tools like rolling forecasts, leaving massive opportunities for businesses that embrace modern managerial accounting techniques to gain competitive advantages. Over my 20 years as CEO of Complete Controller, I’ve witnessed firsthand how businesses that master these insights consistently outperform their competitors by making smarter financial decisions faster. This article reveals the exact strategies we’ve used to help thousands of businesses transform their financial operations, including proven techniques for cost management, cash flow mastery, and strategic budgeting that you can implement immediately.

What are managerial accounting insights, and how do they drive success?

Managerial accounting insights are internal financial analyses that guide strategic decisions, optimize costs, and improve operational efficiency
Cost management strategies identify and eliminate waste while preserving essential business functions
Cash flow projections prevent liquidity crises and enable proactive financial planning
Performance metrics track progress toward strategic goals and highlight areas needing improvement
Strategic budgeting aligns resources with business priorities and market opportunities

Understanding Business Costs: The DNA of Profitability

Every dollar saved through smart cost analysis drops directly to your bottom line, making cost understanding the foundation of profitable operations. Traditional cost accounting often masks inefficiencies by spreading overhead evenly across products or services, but modern managerial accounting principles reveal the true cost drivers that impact profitability.

Activity-Based Costing (ABC) revolutionizes how businesses understand their expenses by assigning costs to specific activities rather than broad categories. A manufacturing client of ours discovered through ABC analysis that 20% of their costs stemmed from underutilized machinery during third shifts, leading to an annual savings of $2 million after restructuring workflows. This granular approach to cost management strategies exposes hidden inefficiencies that traditional accounting methods miss.

Fixed vs. variable cost optimization

Understanding the distinction between fixed and variable costs empowers strategic decision-making during both growth and contraction phases. Fixed costs like rent and insurance remain constant regardless of production levels, while variable costs fluctuate with business activity.

Strategic cost management involves:

Negotiating long-term contracts to lock in favorable fixed costs
Converting fixed costs to variable when possible (outsourcing vs. hiring)
Identifying semi-variable costs that can be optimized
Creating cost behavior charts for scenario planning

Strategic Cost Management: Cutting Fat, Not Muscle

Smart cost reduction preserves core capabilities while eliminating waste, requiring surgical precision rather than across-the-board cuts. Data from CV XYZ’s implementation of activity-based costing revealed 15% undercosting in their product lines, transforming their pricing strategy and profit margins overnight.

Variance analysis serves as your financial early warning system by comparing budgeted versus actual costs to identify deviations before they become crises. When we transitioned Complete Controller to cloud-based operations, variance analysis revealed we were spending 30% more than necessary on redundant software subscriptions—money we redirected into growth initiatives.

Margin analysis for product profitability

Product-level margin analysis reveals which offerings truly drive profits versus those that merely generate revenue. This analysis considers:

Direct material and labor costs per unit
Allocated overhead based on actual resource consumption
Customer acquisition and service costs
Opportunity costs of production capacity

Breaking down margins by customer segment often reveals surprising insights—sometimes your biggest clients generate the smallest profits due to service demands and pricing concessions.

Mastering Cash Flow Projections: Avoiding Financial Blind Spots

Cash flow projections serve as your business’s financial GPS, showing exactly when and where money moves through your operations. Industry standards indicate that forecasts achieving 70% accuracy are considered reliable, yet many businesses operate with far less precision, creating dangerous blind spots.

Scenario planning transforms cash flow from reactive scrambling to proactive management by modeling multiple futures simultaneously. Best-case scenarios help identify growth opportunities, while worst-case models reveal vulnerabilities requiring contingency plans. A global media company improved their forecasting accuracy to 85% using automated tools, cutting bank fees by 30% through better cash positioning.

Advanced cash flow techniques

Aging analysis provides granular visibility into receivables and payables, enabling targeted collection efforts and strategic payment timing. Key components of effective financial performance analysis include:

Categorizing receivables by age and collection probability
Negotiating extended payment terms with reliable vendors
Implementing early payment discounts to accelerate collections
Creating cash flow heat maps showing seasonal patterns

Rolling 13-week cash flow forecasts provide the optimal balance between accuracy and planning horizon, updating weekly to reflect new information and changing conditions.

Budgeting for Agility: Turning Plans into Action

Traditional annual budgets become obsolete within months in today’s dynamic business environment, making agile budgeting essential for success. Zero-based budgeting forces every expense to justify its existence, eliminating legacy spending that no longer serves strategic objectives.

Research indicates that businesses using rolling forecasts respond 40% faster to market changes than those using static annual budgets. These dynamic budgeting techniques update monthly or quarterly, incorporating new data and adjusted assumptions to maintain relevance.

Implementing zero-based budgeting

Zero-based budgeting starts from scratch each period rather than adjusting previous budgets, forcing critical evaluation of every expense. Implementation steps include:

Identifying decision units (departments, projects, or activities)
Ranking activities by strategic importance
Building budgets from zero up to available resources
Documenting assumptions for future variance analysis

Common pitfalls include neglecting to adjust budgets after major events like product launches or market shifts, leading to misaligned resource allocation that hampers growth.

Decision-Making Processes: Data-Driven vs. Intuition

Successful decision-making blends quantitative analysis with experienced judgment, using data to ground choices while respecting factors models cannot capture. Break-even analysis provides clarity on minimum performance requirements, calculating exactly how many units must sell to cover fixed costs.

Capital budgeting techniques like Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) enable objective comparison of investment opportunities. These tools account for time value of money and risk factors, ensuring resources flow to highest-return projects.

Framework for strategic decisions

Structured decision frameworks prevent emotional choices and ensure consistency across the organization:

Define success metrics before analyzing options
Gather relevant data from managerial accounting systems
Model financial impacts of each alternative
Consider qualitative factors like culture fit and strategic alignment
Document decisions and assumptions for future learning

The key lies in using data to inform rather than dictate decisions—numbers tell what happened, but judgment determines what happens next.

Advanced Techniques for Competitive Edge

Modern managerial accounting leverages technology and innovative methodologies to create sustainable competitive advantages. Constraint analysis identifies bottlenecks limiting growth, focusing improvement efforts where they generate maximum impact.

The balanced scorecard approach, while less popular than its 2006 peak of 70% adoption, still provides value when adapted for modern businesses. Today’s version incorporates real-time dashboards and predictive analytics rather than quarterly reviews.

Emerging technologies in managerial accounting

Artificial intelligence and machine learning transform managerial accounting from historical reporting to predictive insights:

Automated anomaly detection flags unusual transactions
Predictive models forecast customer behavior and market trends
Natural language processing extracts insights from unstructured data
Real-time optimization adjusts pricing and inventory dynamically

Performance metric customization ensures each department tracks progress against relevant objectives—sales teams monitor customer acquisition costs while operations focuses on throughput and quality metrics.

Final Thoughts

Managerial accounting insights transform businesses from reactive firefighting to proactive strategic execution. The combination of cost mastery, cash flow precision, agile budgeting, and data-driven decisions creates a powerful framework for sustainable growth.

Success requires commitment to continuous improvement and willingness to challenge traditional approaches. Start with one area—perhaps implementing activity-based costing or rolling forecasts—then expand as you see results. The businesses that thrive tomorrow are those that embrace these insights today.

Ready to revolutionize your financial strategy? The experts at Complete Controller specialize in implementing these managerial accounting insights for businesses ready to scale. Visit Complete Controller to discover how our team can help you build a data-driven financial foundation that powers sustainable growth.

FAQ

How does managerial accounting differ from financial accounting?

Managerial accounting focuses on internal decision-making with forward-looking analysis, while financial accounting creates standardized external reports for investors and regulators based on historical data.

What are the core benefits of managerial accounting for small businesses?

Small businesses gain cost optimization capabilities, improved cash flow management, data-driven strategic planning, and early warning systems for financial issues before they become critical.

What tools are essential for effective managerial accounting?

Essential tools include spreadsheet software for analysis, ERP systems for data integration, specialized cost allocation software, and dashboarding tools for real-time performance monitoring.

How can I improve budgeting accuracy?

Improve accuracy through rolling forecasts that update regularly, zero-based budgeting that challenges assumptions, variance analysis to learn from past differences, and scenario planning for multiple possibilities.

What role does managerial accounting play in strategic planning?

Managerial accounting provides the quantitative foundation for strategic decisions by revealing true costs, projecting financial impacts of different strategies, and tracking progress toward long-term objectives.

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Build Savings Fast: 5 Tips!

Posted on January 7, 2024January 6, 2024 by Complete Controller

Though it should be a priority in every financially responsible adult’s budget, most don’t have any savings. Those that have managed to save don’t have enough put away. At the same time, few have healthy savings, including an emergency fund and retirement savings.

Even if people manage to save, most will deplete it before using it for the intended purpose because it is easy to dip into savings when you have it available. For those with no savings, it is never too late to get started.

Here are five tips to help you build your savings.

Make a Budget

Making a household budget is more accessible than most people think it is. Gather all your expenses and sources of income use, a spreadsheet or a calendar or planner, and input the amounts in categories that make sense to you.

Some free online budget templates will help make this process simple. The vital part of the budget is that you add savings to your expenses and make it your most necessary expense. Financial planners and advisors agree that if you pay yourself first by prioritizing savings, all other financial responsibilities will benefit you because you will be more thoughtful about spending.

Make it a Habit

Saving money is just as much a psychological endeavor as a physical one. Most people don’t save because they think it is too difficult or they don’t make enough money to spare some of it to save. The truth is no matter the amount you save, just doing it regularly, even if a few dollars, will build a savings habit. As you find more places in your budget where you can spend less, you will already have a savings habit and grow the amount you have saved more quickly.

Make it Automatic

Most banking institutions have savings accounts, and some even gain interest. They can also deposit a portion of your paycheck directly into the account. Setting up a direct deposit and allocating a certain amount into your savings account each payday does a few things to boost your savings.

It helps with the psychology of saving because the amount is not in your main account of disposable income, and often, people don’t miss it and budget accordingly. It also sets a certain amount of consistent savings that can add up quickly.

Seek Extra Income

When working on your budget, you must find places to cut spending and put 100% of that money into your savings. If you cut out some unnecessary expenses, you might be surprised how fast your savings grow when you transfer those funds into your savings account. When considering your budget and savings, you may also want to earn more income through side gigs or other income streams, such as investments. It is easier to find side work in our gig economy that doesn’t take too much time and can generate enough income to build your savings quickly.

Use Company Benefits

Most people who work for corporations are aware of company savings plans like a 401(k). Generally, it is talked about in your orientation. Still, often, employees don’t precisely understand how it works or what contributing to company savings and retirement plans can do for their savings goals.

A significant number of companies that have a 401(k) also have a matching program. When deciding on what percentage of your income to contribute, consider contributing the percentage your company will match. If your company matches up to 10%, you should contribute at least 10% of your income. You can, of course, contribute as much as you can afford.

Conclusion

Review your budget and check your savings accounts every month. Monitoring your accounts will help you stick to your savings plan. However, it also enables you to identify problems and fix them quickly. When you focus on saving in this way, it could inspire you to save more.

7 Ways to Cover College Expenses

Posted on January 7, 2024January 6, 2024 by Complete Controller

Whether you are attending college straight out of high school or going back to obtain a degree, you have to cover expenses associated with college, such as tuition, textbooks, a computer, and general college school supplies. Not to mention other expenses related to college that are more indirect, such as housing or transportation.

Obtaining financing to cover college expenses can be a challenge. However, if you know what is available, you can plan to get assistance with college expenses and make your future brighter.

Here are seven ways to finance college and cover the related expenses.

Company Tuition Reimbursement

Many corporations promote from within the company. Often, a degree will be required when moving to higher positions and management, so many companies offer full or partial tuition reimbursement if an employee pursues a work-related degree. Some companies will provide some reimbursement for non-related degrees. However, you will not know unless you ask.

Grants and Scholarships

When applying to college during the admissions process, admissions specialists can help you determine grants and scholarships to apply for and give you valuable information on the process. There are also many smaller scholarships and grants you can apply for online. Also, check with the college financial aid office; grants and scholarships should be applied for every year you are in college.

Community College

Many community colleges offer valuable four-year degrees. Even if the degree you seek is specialized, community college is great for getting an associate’s degree and getting the basic required classes out of the way at a lower cost. If you complete your degree at a state or private college before beginning community college, ensure your credits will transfer.

Free or Used Textbooks

Besides tuition, textbooks are one of the most significant school expenses. There are a few options to keep textbooks and required reading costs at a minimum.

Check availability at the school or local library
Search for websites and apps that offer free ebook books and textbooks

Share Costs with Other Students

Check with the school. Some have textbook and book exchange programs
Check used book sites and stores to get the books and textbooks at discounted prices
Search for sites or stores that rent books and textbooks

Minimizing Computer Costs

Even if you already have a desktop computer, most college students opt for a laptop for school. Laptops have gained popularity due to portability and the ability to use them in class for notes and recording. There are ways to keep the costs of purchasing a laptop to a minimum.

Keep it basic; most lower-cost laptops will meet the needs of a student
Purchase a refurbished computer; they are often like new and come with limited warranties
Look for rebates, student discounts, or back-to-school sales
Shop at a pawn shop or second-hand electronics store

Minimizing the Costs of Supplies

Other school supplies are needed for college students, such as pens, highlighters, notebooks, and other items specific to certain classes, i.e., scientific calculators. Many stores offer discounts to students. You can also look for sales and coupons; some supplies can be bought and used as students may only need them for a limited time.

Taking Online Classes and CLEP Testing

Many accredited schools offer online courses. Because overhead is low to conduct these classes, they can be less costly for a student. The only drawback to going to college online is that it is self-directed, and some students may need the structure of a classroom to excel.

Many colleges not only offer online courses but also accept CLEP credits from CLEP testing. CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) tests allow students to test out many courses needed to earn an associate’s degree. Each exam costs under $100, significantly less than a school semester. Check with your school if they accept CLEP credits before taking the exams.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the financial challenges associated with college can be daunting, but there are practical strategies to alleviate the burden. From leveraging company tuition reimbursement to exploring grants and scholarships, attending community college, and minimizing expenses on textbooks, computers, and supplies, students can make informed choices. Opting for online classes and CLEP testing further expands affordable alternatives. By being resourceful and proactive in seeking assistance, individuals can navigate the financial landscape of higher education, ensuring a brighter future without compromising on quality.

Maximize Cash Flow: Success Strategies

Posted on January 6, 2024January 6, 2024 by Complete Controller

Cash flow is the bloodline of any business, determining whether your business financials are running successfully. Positive cash flow means paying off your debts and liabilities and maintaining more equity than liability.

Businesses have often needed help maintaining their cash flow, even those with a profitable financial period. Just because your business is posting a profit does not necessarily mean it is doing well in terms of liquidity, and it may face problems covering overhead expenses and payroll.

A business must have a positive cash flow to manage its day-to-day business and have a credible balance sheet.

Here are four ways to improve your business cash flow.

Offer Incentives for Early Payments

Try sending out invoices as soon as you send them out. It helps keep track of everything that’s going out, and the sooner it is sent out, the sooner means, the sooner you can expect payment. Try to offer discounts to customers who pay on time.

For example, if your terms for payment are net thirty days of invoice submission, try offering incentives where you will give them a small discount if they complete the terms within fifteen days instead. This incentive especially helps customers buy bulk orders of your product or services.

The incentive will also help you save on your costs and liabilities, as you can get your cash faster to pay off expenses or invest further. Maintaining liquidity fortifies your business against market or economic shifts, a crucial aspect for both shareholders and potential investors scrutinizing your balance sheet.

Impose Penalties for Late Payments

Try to set it in your terms and conditions that any payment made after the net 30 period will be penalized with a late fee. It shows that you are running a serious business with professionalism and that there can be no compromise regarding payment collection.

Furthermore, it facilitates market exposure and, through trial and error, aids in identifying the right business partnerships. Any customer who doesn’t honor your net terms and offers late payments is ultimately detrimental to your company’s bottom line, and you would be better off not doing business with those kinds of unprofessional practices.

Keep Track of Your Spending and Remove Unnecessary Expenses

Identify and remove necessary expenses by doing monthly or semiannual expense reports. Try to cut out any unnecessary expenses as much as you can. Research and invest in software that can help your business grow, such as accounting software tools to help you do your bookkeeping more efficiently.

Keep track of your purchases and remove those that don’t show any significant purpose or that be replaced with something more affordable. Try purchasing your supplies in bulk as, just like with your net terms with customers, more suppliers will offer discounts if you pay them in time.

If available, take full advantage of these discounts and try paying off your vendors as soon as possible so you don’t have cash tangled around in loans and back payments.

Open a High-Interest Savings Account and a Business Credit Card

Try investing in high-interest savings accounts, as it is a safe way to help generate cash and improve your cash flow in the long run. Pay attention to applying for a credit card that has cashback options.

Be sure to use it responsibly, and you will be able to enjoy the benefits of receiving cashback on purchases paid on time. It is also one of the best ways to help boost your business’s credit score and help get you approved for future loans and other banking benefits.

Conclusion

Cash flow is about managing expenses and keeping your business flush with cash. The more liquid your business is, the better equipped it will be to anticipate unforeseen circumstances.

It is vital for future investments, expense budgets, and the daily welfare of the organization. Regardless of the profitability of your business, it will not be nearly as successful as a company that may project fewer profits but with a much stronger cash flow statement in the same period.

Positive Corporate Culture: 6 Tips

Posted on January 6, 2024August 13, 2024 by Complete Controller

While many focus on operations, prioritizing a positive corporate culture should be imperative when owning a business. Research has consistently demonstrated that a positive corporate culture can significantly impact a business’s success or failure.

Every employee and management team member must actively work towards cultivating a positive culture in the workplace. This responsibility cannot be solely shouldered by leadership, as any negative attitude, regardless of position, can adversely affect the corporate culture.

Numerous focus areas within the company can contribute to fostering a positive work environment and ensuring the happiness and productivity of employees.

Here are six ways to ensure a positive corporate culture in your business.

Positive Vision

A positive corporate culture begins with the company’s vision, which is initially presented in the mission statement. Subsequently, this statement articulates the company’s goals and resides in the minds of every employee, from the CEO to the receptionist. Ensuring every employee is acquainted with the company’s mission promotes confidence and enhances understanding of the overall goals, thereby aiding in the guidance of individual goals.

Positive Values

A company’s values constitute the core of its culture. While a vision embodies a company’s mission, values serve as guidelines for the mindset and behaviors essential to achieving company goals. They communicate to every individual in the company how the company treats employees and co-workers, serves clients, and upholds professional standards. The authenticity of the company’s values is derived not only from the vision but also from the genuine commitment to those values.

Positive Practices

Company practices are how vision and values are put into use. Suppose your company has a compelling vision statement and clearly defined values. If there is no action behind them, the corporate culture will be harmful and cause a company to suffer or fail.

Whatever the company’s vision and values, they should be reflected in its policies and operations. Vision and values mean nothing if they are not expressed through action.

Positive People

No company can have a positive corporate culture without people sharing their vision and values. The shared vision and values should be part of the recruiting and hiring process. To ensure the company’s corporate culture is positive, all new or seasoned employees must be on board with the core vision and values.

Having this be part of the recruitment and hiring process helps with retention and reduces issues that can negatively impact the corporate culture. People stick with the corporate cultures they like, and bringing on suitable “culture carriers” through recruitment reinforces the company’s already-established culture.

Positive Energy

A positive corporate culture energizes the business atmosphere. This energy propels the staff to be more creative, productive, and proactive. In a work environment that exudes positivity, employees eagerly anticipate coming to work and swiftly engage in their tasks, thereby maximizing productivity.

Positive Ideas

While every idea employees develop on a project or in the workplace may not be good, it can still yield positive results. If every staff member approaches projects or production positively, even bad ideas will spark good ones.

Brainstorming must come from a place of positivity to produce a viable work product. Therefore, every employee should approach their ideas and the ideas of others with enthusiasm and encouragement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, numerous factors actively contribute to shaping a positive corporate culture. The components discussed here serve as a solid foundation for cultivating an environment where employees thrive. A positive corporate culture is not merely a collection of lofty ideals but a dynamic interplay of vision, values, practices, people, and energy.

These elements synergistically create a workplace that attracts and retains like-minded individuals. The positive atmosphere nurtures a sense of belonging and purpose, influencing key metrics such as productivity, attendance, and internal promotions.

This investment pays dividends in terms of employee satisfaction and tangible outcomes such as increased sales and business success. As a leader, cultivating a culture of happiness and positivity within the organization is not just a strategic move but an investment in the long-term prosperity and well-being of the company and its employees. Happy employees are not just a reflection of a positive corporate culture; they actively drive heightened productivity and improve business outcomes.