Modern financial controlling – why is it worth investing in?

Today’s business environment requires precise decisions based on reliable data, not just intuition. The lack of hard data and systematic analysis leads directly to inefficient financial management. Financial controlling enables companies to make informed decisions based on concrete information, resulting in cost optimisation, increased profitability, and long-term stability.

What are the key benefits of implementing financial controlling? What mistakes do companies make when they don’t apply it? And is it better to manage it in-house or outsource to professionals? You’ll find the answers in our guide for entrepreneurs who want full control over their company’s finances.

What is financial controlling?

Unlike traditional accounting, which focuses on analysing past transactions, financial controlling is future-oriented. It is a comprehensive system that includes:

• Profitability analysis – identifying the most profitable products, services and customers, and eliminating unprofitable areas.
• Cost optimisation – reducing expenses without negatively affecting quality and efficiency.
• Budgeting and financial planning – creating realistic financial forecasts and monitoring them on an ongoing basis.
• Monitoring key KPIs – including gross margin, financial liquidity, and operating costs.
• Financial forecasting – analysing market trends and anticipating future results and risks.

The absence of effective financial controlling may result in situations where a company generates high revenues but fails to deliver real profits. This is particularly relevant in the e-commerce and service sectors, where operating margins are key to profitability.

The most common mistakes made by companies not applying financial controlling

• Focusing solely on revenue, not profitability

Sales growth doesn’t always mean higher profits. For example, the cost of producing a product may increase, and the company may fail to notice the rising unit costs, which reduces the margin.

• Inefficient cost management

Companies often cut expenses blindly – for example, reducing marketing or technology investments instead of eliminating inefficient processes.

• Liquidity issues

A lack of working capital management strategy can lead to problems with settling liabilities, especially when client payments are delayed.

• Lack of financial forecasting

Managing “month to month” exposes the company to the risk of sudden financial difficulties. The absence of analysis and forecasts can lead to poor investment decisions.

How to implement financial controlling in your company

1. Define financial goals

Every company should clearly state what it aims to achieve – margin growth, better liquidity control, or cost optimisation.

2. Identify key KPIs

Indicators should be tailored to the industry – e.g. customer acquisition cost (CAC) in retail, or unit production cost in manufacturing.

3. Automate financial reporting

Data should be available in real time. Tools like Microsoft Power BI enable ongoing analysis and elimination of inefficiencies.

4. Scenario planning and forecasting

A well-managed company analyses different financial scenarios, taking into account market changes, seasonality, or exchange rate fluctuations.

5. Ongoing monitoring and optimisation

Financial controlling is a continuous process, not a one-time effort. Regular result analysis allows dynamic adjustments to the company’s strategy.

In-house controlling or outsourcing?

Many entrepreneurs wonder whether financial controlling can be managed internally. However, external support offers:

• Access to specialist knowledge – experts help interpret data and tailor the financial strategy.
• Advanced analytical tools – e.g. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central integrated with Power BI enables full automation of reporting.
• Time and cost savings – instead of hiring additional staff, a company can use a flexible cooperation model.

When is it worth outsourcing controlling to experts?

• If your company is growing dynamically and needs support in financial management.
• If you lack in-house financial analysis competencies.
• If the owner wants to focus on strategy and development while leaving financial matters to experts.

Conclusion – financial controlling is not a cost, it’s an investment

Companies that implement modern financial controlling gain full control over their performance and can respond quickly to changing market conditions. It is a tool that helps increase profitability and maintain financial liquidity – regardless of business size.

Do you want to make sure financial controlling in your company is working effectively? Choose proven solutions – Microsoft Power BI and Dynamics 365 Business Central ensure full automation of financial analysis, generation of accurate reports, and support in forecasting.

Contact us and learn how to implement modern controlling solutions in your business!

This article was prepared in collaboration with getsix® Services.

The company getsix® Services has been an integral part of the getsix® Group for nearly 20 years, enabling them to provide tested and refined solutions for clients in the service industry who require efficient accounting and financial controlling solutions.

If you have any further questions or require additional information, please contact your business relationship person or use the enquiry form on the HLB Poland website.

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