The Missing Link in Small Business Productivity and Profitability: Accounting Systems
A recent article in the Portland Business Journal highlighted some great tools to help small businesses boost productivity; CRM platforms, AI integrations, marketing systems. All valuable tools. But one critical piece was missing from the list: solid accounting processes and systems.
As someone who’s worked with business owners for over 15 years as both a CPA and now as a commercial real estate advisor; I’ve seen firsthand how proper accounting isn't just about taxes or recordkeeping. It's one of the most powerful tools a business can have for making strategic, profitable decisions including when it comes to growth, investing, or acquiring real estate.
Here’s why:
1. Profitability Starts with Financial Clarity
You can’t improve what you can’t see. When your books are accurate and your systems are streamlined, you gain clear insight into what’s really driving (or draining) your profitability. That level of financial clarity leads to smarter decisions—whether it’s cutting costs, adjusting pricing, or investing back into the business.
2. Cash Flow is King—And the #1 Reason Small Businesses Fail
According to U.S. Bank, 82% of small businesses fail due to poor cash flow management. It’s a staggering statistic, and it’s entirely preventable. Accounting systems help you track cash in real time, spot issues early, and plan for what’s ahead. Whether it’s making payroll, investing in a new opportunity, or preparing for seasonal shifts. Being proactive starts with your numbers.
3. Systems Save Time and Create Consistency
Manual spreadsheets, missing receipts, and scrambling at tax time isn’t sustainable. Cloud-based accounting tools and smart processes reduce errors and save time. That frees you up to focus on growth, whether that’s expanding your team, scaling your operations, or planning for your next move.
4. Want to Buy a Building? Your Books Matter.
Thinking about purchasing your own office, retail space, or warehouse? You’ll need clean financials, strong cash flow, and a clear understanding of your profit margins. Lenders want to see consistent, reliable reporting before they’ll finance a deal. And as an advisor, I can’t help a client confidently explore real estate or investment options without solid numbers in place.
Financial readiness is the first step toward opportunity.
5. Good Data = Smart Strategy
Organized financials allow you to see trends, evaluate performance, and spot opportunities. Whether you're navigating a lease renewal or analyzing whether it makes sense to buy a building, good accounting gives you the tools to make decisions with confidence.
At the end of the day, if you want to grow your business profitably and strategically, accounting cannot be an afterthought. Period.
Yes, marketing and productivity tools are great. But your financial systems are what support every major decision you’ll make. From managing day-to-day operations to preparing for long-term investments like real estate.
Let’s stop treating accounting like a backend task and start recognizing it for what it really is: a foundation for growth.
I’m not perfect at all of this either, as a CPA, I realize the act of just getting the real work done sometimes is all that can happen, but I promise if you take the time to incorporate proper systems it will only help ensure you don’t burn out and don’t miss something critical.
If you’re looking to tighten up your accounting systems or prepare your business for a real estate investment, I offer consulting packages that combine financial clarity with strategic insight. Feel free to reach out, happy to be a resource. Contact me or Sign Up for my newsletter below.
-Briana, your CRE and CPA Advisor
