The Ledger

Curated content for
analytical business leaders

The Future of FP&A is Bright

FP&A professionals that have harnessed the power of a dynamic, fully integrated analytics solution are on their way to a very bright future and will reach new heights in the game of data analytics. Due to the advances made in technology, the role of the FP&A professional and the composition of the job itself will be dramatically different in a few short years. This progress will greatly impact what we do, how we do it, and the speed at which we do it, and provide a tremendous expansion of the depth and breadth of the analysis that can be performed. While advanced analytics are giving many companies a competitive edge, it will soon be the norm for businesses in the near future. The benefits to the FP&A professional include more efficient processes, lower costs over time, improved decision-making, and the ability to answer questions about the performance of the organization at a more strategic level.

Read More at The Digitalist by SAP >

 

Embedding Purpose in Your Strategy

“While the benefits of purpose on corporate performance are starting to be recognized by both business leaders and academics, very little evidence exists about how purpose can be effectively and practically embedded into decision making and strategy execution. We suggest that if performance management and measurement systems are well-designed, management accountants can use them as a powerful and positive tool for aligning purpose with sustainable, value-creating strategy and business models. By leading in the design and implementation of comprehensive performance management and measurement systems, management accountants and the whole finance organization can play a vital role in helping their organization embed purpose into action as a business path for achieving positive social impact and sustainable business performance.”

Read More at Strategic Finance Magazine >

 

It’s No Surprise That Spreadsheet Reporting is Bad for Business

In the era of big data analytics and digital transformation, more companies are realizing the value and importance of data analytics in every area of their business. With that said, many finance leaders find themselves unable to successfully navigate this transformation because they are using outdated tools to try to visualize and analyze their data. There’s nothing inherently wrong with spreadsheets; they’re excellent tools for many different jobs, but data visualization and data communication are not in that category. Having robust analytics practices require an integrated technology platform that enables executives to gain stronger insights into the business.

Read More at Forbes Magazine >

 

How to Overcome Analysis Paralysis

Analysis paralysis can be a big problem for executives who are not digitally proficient and able to use intelligent technologies to differentiate themselves from competitors. Trying to navigate the digital disruptions affecting every industry, company, and line of business is next to impossible for companies experiencing this paralysis. The cure for such paralysis is a digital transformation, which is fundamentally about creating better outcomes, better visibility, and the ability to be agile and deliver outcomes in a timely fashion. There are three practical tips to follow when turning digital transformation into a practical strategy for driving long-term growth.

Read More at The Digitalist by SAP >