The Fractional CFO Show with Adam Cooper

Making Metrics Matter - KPIs for Small Businesses

May 14, 2025
In this engaging talk, Dan DeGolier, CEO of Ascent CFO Solutions, sheds light on the critical role of KPIs for small businesses. He discusses why 'cash is king' remains essential at any growth stage. Listeners learn about common dashboard pitfalls, the importance of linking KPIs to team bonuses, and how to distinguish between tracking leads and tracking the right ones. Dan also evaluates the use of Power BI versus Excel, providing actionable insights for those feeling overwhelmed by their financial metrics.
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ANECDOTE

Dan's Fractional CFO Journey

  • Dan DeGolier started in public accounting and then worked as a controller and CFO for tech firms.
  • He realized early-stage companies couldn't afford full-time CFOs and created a fractional CFO firm that now has 40 staff.
INSIGHT

Cash Flow Drives KPIs

  • Cash flow remains critical regardless of company size or growth stage.
  • KPIs should reflect business drivers and cash flow bottlenecks unique to each company's industry.
INSIGHT

Hierarchy in KPI Alignment

  • KPI alignment differs across company levels: executive KPIs are broad, departmental KPIs focus on specific functions.
  • KPIs work best when cascaded in a hierarchical manner from top leadership down to teams.
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