Business by Design Part 3: It’s hard to find success without a map

Clear Vision • November 1, 2016

Strategic Management.  Not the most exciting way to kick off a business article and an area that many, many business and business owners like to ignore.

From the one person, home based business through to massive international corporations there is practically an epidemic of people failing to undertake genuine strategic management of their business.

So it’s no surprise that the most recent ASIC report on corporate insolvencies tells us that “poor strategic management” was cited by 42% of businesses as a reason for their failure.

Just to clarify here…we don’t just mean that the business was poorly run or managed.  This is not day to day operations, this is big picture, what’s our vision, where are we going and how are going to get there stuff.

So 42% of failed businesses, which were probably run by people just like you and I, people who loved what they do and worked hard at it, failed because they didn’t stop and really work out a map for the future success of their business.

So how is the strategic management in your business???  When was the last time your management team got out of the office and really refined your strategy???  Then, most importantly, did you come back to the office and implement changes to follow that strategy?

Not giving the answers you’d like?  So how do you fix it?

If your answers to last few questions aren’t what you would like them to be – don’t worry, it’s never too late to get things on track.

Some quick tips we recommend:

  • Get your financial information and position in order. Strategic management needs the right data so make sure you have this available when you need it.
  • Plan to plan. Set a calendar of dates and times when you will work on strategic management.  Once a year probably isn’t enough, but you might start with a longer session and then check in each month or quarter
  • Work out your goals. If you have multiple stakeholders you might need to navigate what everyone expects and wants from the future of the business
  • Document your map. Put pen to paper so agreed items and stated goals aren’t lost over time when you get back to the tools.
  • A plan left unimplemented is less than worthless.  It’s cost you time and money and provided no return.  Make sure you implement your ideas

Don’t wait, get help!

This epidemic of poor or non-existent strategic management is one of the reasons that I am so committed to working with clients on their strategy as well as their day to day financial position.

If you need help with your Strategic Management then Clear Vision is here to help.

We have a range of services and programs that assist businesses in this area.

Capital Gains Tax Implications of Subdividing Land in Australia

By Caroline Gillies • June 1, 2025
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Autumn Tax Tips: Make the Most of the Final Weeks Before Year-End

By Caroline Gillies • May 25, 2025
As we step into the final week of autumn and feel winter’s chill approaching, it’s a natural time for reflection—and that includes taking stock of your financial and tax situation. The end of the year is closer than it seems, and a bit of preparation now can make a significant difference come tax season. Here are a few things to consider as the leaves fall: 1. Review Your Income and Deductions This is a good moment to check your income year-to-date and consider whether there are any deductions you can still take advantage of. Charitable donations or investment losses might help reduce your taxable income before year-end. 2. Maximise Super Concessional Contributions If you haven’t yet maxed out your superannuation concessional contributions, there’s still time. Remember unused cap amounts carry forward for 5 years and the 2019-20 unused cap amount will expire 30 June 2025. These contributions not only help secure your future but can also offer tax benefits now. 3. Organise Your Records Autumn’s slower pace is perfect for pulling together receipts, invoices, and financial documents. Getting organised now means less stress later when tax season begins in earnest. 4. Consider Tax-Loss Harvesting If you’ve had investments that underperformed, selling them before the end of the year to offset gains can be a strategic move. Consult with us today to see if this makes sense for you. 5. Plan Ahead Winter may bring holidays and downtime, but it's also a good window to consult with a tax professional. A quick meeting before year-end can reveal savings opportunities or help avoid surprises when you file. So, as the days grow shorter and frost begins to settle in, use this time to bring clarity and warmth to your finances.

Have you Thought About Where Your Business Will Be in 5 Years?

By Caroline Gillies • May 11, 2025
At Clear Vision Accountancy Group, we offer tailored services to support your long-term success—from strategic business planning to high-end tax administration. Whether you're aiming for growth, improved profitability, or a clearer direction, we're here to help you build a plan that gets results. If you're ready to map out the next five years with clarity and confidence, contact us today on (07) 4688 2500. Our 1-Page Business Plan will help you with: 1. Vision & Purpose Where are you headed, and why does it matter? What is the core purpose of your business? In five years, what positive impact will you have made on your customers, team, or community? What do you want your business to be recognised for within your industry? 2. Growth & Scale What does success look like, and how will you achieve it? What revenue, profit, or market position are you targeting? How many clients or customers do you want to serve—and in which markets? Are you planning to expand your offerings or enter new territories? 3. Team & Culture Who is helping you build it—and how? What does your ideal team look like in terms of structure, culture, and capabilities? How will you attract, retain, and develop top talent? What kind of leadership values and workplace environment will you foster? 4. Operations & Systems How will you deliver at scale—efficiently and reliably? What systems and workflows need to be in place to support sustainable growth? Which technologies or platforms will you implement to improve efficiency? How automated or streamlined do you want your business operations to become? 5. Brand & Customer Experience What do customers say about you—and why do they keep coming back? How will clients describe their experience with your business? What kind of reputation or brand presence will you be known for? What sets your business apart from the competition ?  Our Dream it. Plan it. Get it! will help you with: 1. Lifestyle & Personal Goals How does your business support the life you want to live? What level of involvement do you want in the day-to-day operations? What does ideal work-life balance look like for you? What personal or financial goals will your business help you achieve?