My four step process.

Step 1: Create reliable data 

An optimized accounting function is the foundation upon which inner-company analytics resides. Without solid numbers, there is no way to understand either product or organizational profitability or efficiency. 

Potential areas of focus:

• General Ledger and Chart of Accounts.

• Data collection systems and processes.

• Accounting and bookkeeping systems and processes.

• Financial reporting systems and processes.

Step 2: With reliable data, optimize reporting

The income statement, balance sheet and statement of cash flow are the reporting triumvirate of any organization's accounting function. Creating efficient, understandable and standardized reporting is crucial in supplying actionable data to all users in a timely way. 

Step 3: With optimized reporting, analyze all aspects of the organization

Consolidated financials are just the beginning of powerful reporting. From executives and managers to board members, investors and banks, tailoring reporting to the ‘client’ is critical for optimized and efficient decision making. 

Step 4: With solid organizational understanding, drive strategic planning

Once historical and current operations have been quantified and qualified, the process of strategic visioning and ensuing planning can evolve: 

• Build or update a business plan.

• Determine organization change requirements.

• Quantify markets and customers.

• Analyze organization cost to refine pricing, marketing of business development efforts. 

• Optimize supply chain and distribution.

• Determine business unit and organizational direction.

• Create an actionable plan to empower and drive organizational success.