Description

To build a world-class FP&A process in a SaaS or AI business, you need more than great dashboards—you need clean, reliable data from the right sources.

In episode #317, Ben Murray shares the four foundational SaaS finance data sources that power accurate forecasts, meaningful metrics, and board-ready financial models. Drawing on his experience in FP&A across airlines and software, Ben explains how to integrate data from accounting, CRM, subscription management, and HR systems to create a trustworthy SaaS P&L and streamline financial reporting.

This is the go-to framework for any finance leader, CFO, or operator seeking to enhance their financial systems and forecasting accuracy.

What You’ll Learn

• The four essential SaaS finance data sources for great FP&A.
• How each data source powers financial forecasting, SaaS metrics, and Board reporting.
• Why poor accounting structure creates “data debt” that hurts accuracy and slows decision-making.
• How to link bookings data to go-to-market efficiency metrics like CAC, LTV/CAC, and CAC payback.
• Why accurate HR data improves unit economics and organizational efficiency analysis.

Why It Matters

• For FP&A Leaders: Build forecasts grounded in data integrity.
• For SaaS Founders: Understand Which Data Sources Drive Investor-Ready Reporting.
• For Investors: Confidence in a company’s data architecture improves valuation and diligence outcomes.
• For CFOs: A solid finance foundation enables better strategic planning, cash flow forecasting, and profitability tracking.

📎 Resources Mentioned

The SaaS Academy: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/#section-1744932157830

Quote from Ben

“Without clean financial, bookings, revenue, and HR data, your FP&A process can’t deliver the insights your Board expects.”