Why is Cash flow planning so important for companies?
In business management, the ability to cover operating expenses while remaining solvent is the basis for the continued existence of the business. This is particularly true for SMEs, as liquidity bottlenecks can quickly lead to serious restrictions on business activities. The risk of such a scenario is often underestimated. Problems often only become apparent when it is already too late to initiate countermeasures. In special situations or crisis phases, the importance of a robust Cash flow planning becomes all the clearer. A company's Cash position not only determines its ability to survive in difficult times, but also its ability to invest and grow in good times.
The imbalance between the cash flow calculation and the actual cash flow is a challenge for many companies. It arises due to the time lag between revenue generation and receipt of payment. A solid Cash flow planning is an early warning system that signals in good time that the time lag is no longer the sole cause of this discrepancy, but that there are fundamental problems with the payments. All cash flows are recorded in Cash flow plan and thus form the basis for effective risk management. This is particularly important for young or newly founded companies, which can get into difficulties more quickly without sufficient Cash position , even if the order situation is good.
All beginnings are difficult - Cash flow planning & Start-up
Start-ups and companies at the beginning of business start-up face a particular challenge in their financial planning. They can use preparation of the Cash flow plan They do not have access to historical data and established financial processes and have to navigate unfamiliar territory. That is why a solid Cash flow planning is an important tool for them to remain financially stable and grow. Especially because young companies are confronted with numerous risks and unpredictability, a good liquidity forecast helpful in overcoming these hurdles.
Thanks to clear illustrations of payment forecasts and the ability to run through various scenarios, start-ups can identify potential cash shortages at an early stage and take action. The use of specialized software for the Cash flow planning also helps to make optimum use of limited resources. Instead of investing valuable time and manpower in the manual creation and adjustment of financial plans, companies can focus on growth and strategic development.