Pathfinder Metrics

The typical small and medium sized enterprise assigns its accounting functions to an in-house bookkeeper, with occasional support from an outside CPA. Such an approach can be a good beginning, but it is only a beginning. If the functions of Controller and CFO are not performed, the company's growth is likely to be hampered.

For example, one of the more frequent consequences of attempting to get by without senior management accounting input is the emergence of a cash flow problem. With proper financial forecasting systems, potential cash flow shortfalls can usually be addressed months in advance, and thus avoided. Another common problem stems from inadequate cost information.