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CASH FLOW JOURNEY MAP
Where to Start
Diagnostic Tool
Where does your money actually go?
Every business wants a straight line from customer to bank account. Most have detours they can't see. Map your cash flow path, every stage, every delay, every leak, and find out what a structurally clean version looks like.
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01
When do you invoice or collect payment?
Upfront or deposit before work begins
At project milestones during the work
On completion of the job or service
Net 30: payment due 30 days after invoice
Net 60 or longer
02
How do customers pay you?
Credit or debit card (1-2 day settlement)
ACH or bank transfer (3-5 business days)
Paper check (mailed or hand delivered)
Cash
Mix of methods depending on the customer
03
How long to receive payment after work is done?
Same day or within 1-3 days
Within a week
1-2 weeks
3-4 weeks
More than 30 days
04
Do you pay suppliers or subs before getting paid?
No. I get paid before spending anything significant
Small amounts, covered by a deposit
Yes, significant costs before client pays
All costs paid before receiving any payment
05
Do fixed costs go out regardless of whether clients have paid?
Low fixed costs: mostly variable, tied to revenue
Moderate: manageable but require consistent cash
High: payroll and overhead go out no matter what
06
Do you have recurring or retainer revenue every month?
Yes, most revenue is recurring or retainer-based
Some recurring, but mostly project-based
None: every sale is a new transaction
07
How often are invoices paid late or disputed?
Rarely: almost all invoices paid on time
Sometimes: a few per month need follow-up
Often: late payments are a regular problem
Chronically: collections drains time and cash
08
How concentrated is your revenue across customers?
Spread across many customers: no one dominates
A few key clients make up most of revenue
One customer makes up 40% or more
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Ready to see where your money goes?
Answer all 8 questions then map your cash flow path.