Why More Companies Are Outsourcing Accounting & FP&A – And What It Means for Your Business
For years, accounting and Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) were considered strictly in-house functions, managed by internal teams who were deeply familiar with company operations. But as companies grow and the financial landscape becomes more complex, more mid-sized businesses are turning to outsourced accounting solutions, including FP&A support. It’s a strategic shift—not just for cutting costs, but for gaining agility, efficiency, and insight.
Here are the top trends driving the rise of outsourced accounting and FP&A, and what they mean for your business:
Data Accuracy Is Driving Demand
Modern business planning and reporting rely on real-time, accurate financial data. Unfortunately, many in-house teams are overwhelmed by outdated systems, fragmented processes, and resource constraints. According to a study by PwC, 47% of CFOs cite data quality and availability as a top concern in financial reporting.
Outsourcing accounting functions such as general ledger maintenance, AP/AR, and monthly close processes ensures clean, accurate books—while outsourced FP&A teams build forecasts and budgets on top of reliable numbers.
Integrated Tools and Expertise
Today’s outsourced providers come equipped with advanced accounting systems and financial modeling tools. Platforms like NetSuite, QuickBooks Online, Vena Solutions, and Planful are commonly used by external partners to manage everything from day-to-day accounting to long-range financial planning.
By outsourcing, companies gain access to both technology and talent without having to implement new systems or hire specialized roles internally.
Pressure to Do More With Less
Finding and retaining skilled finance professionals is increasingly difficult. The demand for accountants, controllers, and FP&A analysts continues to outpace supply. According to Robert Half, time-to-hire for accounting and finance roles is lengthening and salary expectations are rising.
Outsourcing offers immediate relief, providing fully trained teams, standardized processes, and service continuity.
Insight, Not Just Transactions
Business leaders today expect more from their accounting function. Beyond compliance and reporting, they want guidance: What do the numbers mean? Where are we headed? Outsourced firms are meeting this demand by bundling accounting with CFO-level insight and FP&A strategy.
This “finance-as-a-service” approach is becoming a key differentiator for growth-stage companies seeking financial clarity.
How Strategic CFO’s NearSourcing Accounting Solutions Supports the Full Finance Function
At Strategic CFO, we built NearSourcing™ Accounting Solutions to meet the evolving needs of mid-market finance teams. We provide:
- Full-service accounting: AP/AR, payroll, month-end close, and reporting
- GAAP-compliant financials delivered in real time
- Rolling forecasts, dashboards, and variance analysis
- Budget planning and scenario modeling
- Controller and CFO-level insight without internal headcount expansion
Each NearSourcing™ team includes an Accounting Manager and a Controller who handle the daily accounting operations remotely. These team members also travel to your location for regular in-person strategic financial reviews, ensuring strong collaboration and alignment with your business goals.
In addition, their work is overseen by a third team member—a second Controller based locally at our headquarters. This three-person team structure is designed to deliver both accuracy and strategic value. Our standard NearSourcing package is available for $14,500 per month, providing a cost-effective, full-service alternative to building an internal department.
You get a team that feels in-house, communicates in real time, and delivers financial clarity that supports smarter business decisions.
Because in today’s market, outsourced accounting isn’t just a cost-saver—it’s a strategic advantage.
Learn more about NearSourcing™ or schedule a free consultation here.