

When a business needs to pay its own bills, such as a utility bill for its warehouse, that’s considered a use of cash, known as “cash out”. When a customer pays for goods and services, that money is a source of cash, also called “cash in”. What Is Cash Flow?Ĭash flow measures a company’s sources and uses of cash. This article provides an in-depth look at why cash flow forecasting is important, different methods, advantages and challenges, as well as detailed steps for building an effective forecast. But in either case, leaning on automation for cash flow forecasting can keep all companies from floating adrift. Smaller businesses often have fewer in-house resources dedicated to cash management, yet it can be argued that the process is even more critical for their longevity: Industry research indicates that up to 82% of small businesses fail due to poor cash flow management. Large multinational companies dedicate entire departments to cash management, which includes cash flow forecasting. Cash flow forecasts provide business leaders with important insight about likely changes in a company’s cash position and are a critical tool for charting a successful course to the future. East, Nordics and Other Regions (opens in new tab)įorecasting the amount of cash expected to flow in and out of a business is much like a captain studying the direction of the tides in order to steer their ship in the right direction.
