Private equity firms are known for moving fast. From due diligence to deal execution, to scaling for exit, each investment is driven by a singular goal: maximize enterprise value. However, even the best investment strategy can fall short without a structured approach to execution. That’s where project management comes in. 

Whether you’re managing acquisitions, launching new initiatives, or driving operational efficiency, a skilled project manager ensures nothing gets lost in translation between intention and impact. 

Key phases when project management becomes essential for PE firms 

Private equity firms don’t always need project management support year-round, but there are clear moments when it becomes indispensable: 

• Immediately post-close: You’re onboarding a company, introducing new reporting structures, and beginning integration. A project manager ensures all requirements are met in the critical first 30–90 days. 
• First 100 days planning and execution: Many firms align around a “first 100 days” playbook. A project manager keeps cross-functional teams aligned, timelines intact, and KPIs moving in the right direction. 
• Preparing for sale or exit: As you prepare for a transaction, the volume of data requests, legal coordination, and communications with potential buyers increases rapidly. A project manager helps maintain order and reduce distractions for senior leadership. 
• Integration of a bolt-on acquisition: When a new entity is being absorbed into an existing business, there’s a long list of decisions, systems, and people to align. A project manager ensures it’s done systematically and on schedule. 

Leveraging project management to enhance value for private equity 

Here’s why project management is a powerful lever for value creation in the private equity space: 

1. Transform strategy into results—faster 

PE-backed companies are under pressure to deliver growth and return on investment within 3–7 years, meaning growth objectives can’t sit on a shelf. You need a structured approach that moves them forward—on time, on budget, and in alignment with your investment thesis. 

Project managers specialize in doing just that – helping portfolio companies move from “we should do this” to “we did it.”  This is accomplished by: 

• Collaborating with key stakeholders to craft the project plan and detailed timeline 
• Monitoring project activities and driving the project forward 
• Leveraging best-in-class technologies 
• Managing stakeholder relationships and communications 
• Reporting out on the project’s performance and 
• Focusing on continuous improvement 

Project managers bring order to complexity.  The result? Better execution of your most important initiatives and faster value creation. 

2. Your company’s leadership time and focus 

Your portfolio company’s executives weren’t hired to track down deliverables or update project timelines. Without dedicated project support, that’s often where their time goes.  

Outsourced project management allows leadership to stay focused on strategy, while experienced project professionals coordinate the details—ensuring momentum, alignment, and accountability across teams. 

3. Increased transparency and reduced risk 

In the private equity world, performance needs to be visible, measurable, and investor-ready. A dedicated project manager provides that visibility with clear plans, real-time dashboards, and proactive reporting, especially important during post-investment management and value creation initiatives. 

From tracking key milestones to flagging potential roadblocks early, project managers help you avoid costly delays and keep stakeholders in the loop. 

4.Streamline mergers and acquisitions 

Merger and acquisition activity is central to many private equity strategies, but it’s also where things can unravel fast. These processes move quickly, involve multiple stakeholders, and require seamless coordination across legal, financial, and operational teams. 

Project managers bring order to the chaos. From pre-close planning through post-close integration, they help manage timelines, dependencies, and stakeholder communication—ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks. 

During the deal process, the complexity of back-and-forth communication can be overwhelming. You’re often responding to dozens of potential buyers, each requesting specific data about the company for sale. At the same time, you’re working with legal teams to tailor contract language per buyer, tracking changes, approvals, and dozens of parallel conversations—all while maintaining deal momentum. 

A dedicated project manager ensures this high-stakes process stays organized and on track. They coordinate between internal teams, external advisors, and prospective buyers—so information flows smoothly, deadlines are met, and no detail is missed. 

Whether you’re managing an acquisition or preparing for an exit, project management provides the structure needed to run the M&A process smoothly and realize value from the deal sooner. 

5. Align every initiative to ROI 

In traditional companies, some projects exist simply because they’re “good ideas.” In private equity, that’s not enough. Every project must tie directly to enterprise value or return on investment. 

Project managers help prioritize what matters most: high-impact initiatives that move the needle. They ensure your time, capital, and people are focused on activities that actually support your investment strategy. 

6. Seamless collaboration across cross-functional teams and external stakeholders 

In private equity-backed companies, projects rarely stay within one department—and often involve external consultants, legal teams, tech vendors, and investors. Without centralized coordination, communication is difficult and important information can be missed. 

Project managers serve as a single point of contact, coordinating across functions, time zones, and priorities. They keep deliverables aligned, prevent duplicate efforts, and reduce confusion—especially in fast-paced environments where everyone is juggling multiple responsibilities. 

7. Build institutional knowledge that lasts beyond the exit 

PE firms often cycle through leadership at the portfolio company level. Without documentation and continuity, you lose valuable knowledge about how and why key decisions were made. 

Project managers build and maintain a collection of “project artifacts”: timelines, decisions, outcomes, and stakeholder roles. That history isn’t just useful—it becomes a strategic asset during ownership transitions, board reporting, and due diligence for sales. 

One overlooked benefit of strong project management is the infrastructure it creates. A good project manager doesn’t just deliver one successful project—they build systems and processes that teams can reuse again and again. From introducing new technologies, project plan samples and documentation templates, this “operational scaffolding” supports smoother execution across the entire portfolio and provides the business with a structure for future projects. 

Project management is your execution advantage 

In a landscape defined by bold goals and compressed timelines, project management isn’t a “nice to have”—it’s a strategic execution advantage. It drives alignment, ensures follow-through, and helps deliver the returns investors expect. 

If you’re a private equity firm or a portfolio company looking to drive real results from strategy to execution, partnering with a project management team can make all the difference. 

Ready to talk? 

At BPM, we provide outsourced project management services for both private equity firms and private equity-backed companies. Whether you need support managing M&A integrations, executing value creation plans, or driving strategic growth initiatives, our project professionals bring the tools, experience, and structure to move you forward, faster. Let’s explore how project management can help you unlock greater value from every investment. 

If you’re managing a business that imports goods or operates across international markets, you’ve likely felt the impact of recent tariff changes firsthand. The constantly shifting landscape of trade policies, duties, and regulatory requirements can make it challenging to maintain accurate cost projections and profitable pricing strategies. 

The good news? You don’t have to navigate these complexities alone or rely on manual spreadsheets that quickly become outdated. NetSuite’s Landed Cost functionality offers a comprehensive solution for tracking and managing tariff-related expenses, helping you maintain both compliance and profitability in an increasingly complex global trade environment. 

Understanding today’s tariff landscape 

Recent years have brought significant changes to international trade, creating new challenges for businesses of all sizes. You’re dealing with more than just basic import duties — the entire tariff ecosystem has become more complex and unpredictable. 

Key factors driving tariff complexity 

• Evolving trade agreements: Modifications to international trade deals continue to reshape tariff structures and duty rates across various markets, often with little advance notice. 
• Dynamic import duties: Governments regularly adjust tariffs on specific goods to protect domestic industries or respond to economic pressures, making it difficult to predict costs months in advance. 
• Increased compliance requirements: New customs duties, VAT rules, and reporting obligations are constantly being introduced, adding layers of complexity to your supply chain operations. 
• Economic and political volatility: Factors like inflation, trade disputes, and supply chain disruptions contribute to fluctuating tariff rates that can significantly impact your bottom line. 

These ongoing adjustments mean you need more than just awareness—you need a robust system that can track, analyze, and help you adjust your pricing models in real-time as tariff conditions change. 

How NetSuite’s Landed Cost functionality transforms tariff management 

When you’re dealing with international trade, understanding your true product costs goes far beyond the initial purchase price. NetSuite’s Landed Cost functionality helps you capture the complete picture by automatically incorporating all associated expenses into your cost calculations. 

Comprehensive cost tracking capabilities 

NetSuite’s system tracks multiple cost components that affect your total landed cost: 

• Tariffs and duties: Automatically factors in applicable duties based on product classifications and origin countries 
• Freight and shipping fees: Captures logistics expenses to provide complete visibility into transportation costs 
• Customs and brokerage fees: Incorporates regulatory costs to maintain compliance and accurate financial reporting 
• Insurance and handling: Includes additional costs that may influence your pricing decisions and margin analysis 

This integrated approach means you’re no longer working with incomplete cost data or making pricing decisions based on estimates that may be significantly off target. 

Practical benefits of leveraging NetSuite for tariff-impacted business operation 

Real-time cost visibility and automated allocation 

One of the most valuable aspects of NetSuite’s Landed Cost functionality is how it eliminates the manual work that typically leads to errors and delays. The system automatically assigns tariff-related costs at the item level, reducing data entry mistakes and providing you with accurate, up-to-date cost information. 

You’ll have instant visibility into how tariff fluctuations affect your overall expenses, allowing you to make informed decisions quickly rather than waiting for month-end reports to understand your true costs. 

Strategic planning and risk mitigation 

The system’s scenario planning capabilities allow you to model different tariff situations before they occur. You can evaluate how potential duty changes might impact your sourcing strategies and identify opportunities to mitigate risks through alternative suppliers or adjusted procurement timing. 

Seamless integration across business functions 

NetSuite connects your tariff data directly with your purchasing decisions and financial reporting systems. This integration helps you maintain compliance while supporting strategic decision-making across departments, from procurement to accounting to sales. 

Avoiding the costs of inadequate tariff tracking 

Without proper landed cost tracking, you may be exposing your business to several significant risks that can impact both your immediate profitability and long-term competitive position. 

Financial accuracy challenges 

Inaccurate pricing due to incomplete cost data can lead you to either price yourself out of the market or unknowingly operate with reduced profit margins. Hidden costs that aren’t properly tracked often result in unexpected financial shortfalls that can disrupt your budget planning and cash flow management. 

Compliance and operational risks 

Inadequate duty and tariff tracking increases your risk of non-compliance with trade regulations, potentially exposing you to fines and costly audits. Additionally, lack of visibility into total costs can hinder your sourcing decisions, impacting inventory management and supplier relationships. 

Poor cost allocation can also distort your financial statements, leading to inaccurate profit and loss reporting that affects everything from tax planning to investor relations. 

Implementing a strategic approach to tariff management 

The key to successfully managing tariffs in today’s environment is having systems and processes that can adapt quickly to changing conditions while maintaining accuracy and compliance. 

Building resilience through technology 

NetSuite’s Landed Cost functionality provides the foundation for a more resilient approach to international trade. With automated cost allocation, real-time tracking, and integrated reporting, you can respond to tariff changes proactively rather than reactively. 

Preparing for continued volatility 

As trade regulations continue to evolve, having robust ERP tools becomes increasingly critical for maintaining competitive advantage. The businesses that thrive will be those that can quickly adapt their cost structures and pricing strategies in response to changing tariff conditions. 

Moving forward with confidence 

Tariff changes will continue to be a reality of global trade, but they don’t have to derail your business operations or profitability. By leveraging NetSuite’s comprehensive Landed Cost functionality, you can transform tariff management from a reactive scramble into a strategic advantage. 

The combination of automated tracking, real-time visibility, and integrated reporting gives you the insights needed to make data-driven decisions and optimize your supply chain operations, even as the regulatory landscape continues to shift. 

Ready to take control of your tariff management strategy?  

The NetSuite consultants at BPM understand the complexities of international trade and can help you implement and optimize NetSuite’s Landed Cost functionality for your specific business needs. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your efforts to navigate the evolving tariff landscape while maintaining profitability and compliance. 

The Sage Intacct R3 2025 release isn’t just an update, it’s a signal. A signal that modern finance teams deserve more than marginal improvements. They deserve smart tools that anticipate needs, streamline workflows, and empower decisions that move the business forward. 

In this release, Sage delivers meaningful enhancements across core accounting, automation, reporting, and usability, all with a singular goal: to reduce the friction that distracts from the work that really matters. Here’s what stands out and who benefits most. 

AI-Powered assistance with Sage Copilot: Smarter help search (phased rollout) 

Sage Copilot is rethinking how users find answers. Built on semantic search, it delivers context-aware guidance from within the application with no technical jargon or guesswork required. 

Why it matters 

• Get instant, plain-English answers without navigating help menus. 
• Accelerate user onboarding and reduce dependency on support. 
• Elevate product knowledge across the team. 

Who benefits 

• New finance hires 
• Resource-strapped teams needing just-in-time support 
• Multi-entity users managing complex workflows 

Vendor payments, simplified: Now embedded via MineralTree 

Sage’s partnership with MineralTree brings integrated vendor payments directly into Intacct. Pay vendor bills without exporting, toggling, or waiting. 

Why it matters 

• Save time by initiating payments natively within AP workflows. 
• Improve accuracy by eliminating file-based transfers. 
• Strengthen controls and visibility across the payment lifecycle. 

Who benefits 

• AP managers seeking fewer touchpoints 
• Controllers focused on reducing fraud and errors 
• Businesses managing large vendor networks 

Smarter purchasing, fewer steps: Line-level matching + document consolidation 

New automation capabilities let teams match at the line level and merge multiple purchasing documents into a single transaction. 

Why it matters 

• Strengthens match accuracy and reduces manual reviews. 
• Consolidates purchasing paperwork for simpler processing.
• Supports advanced AP automation at scale. 

Who benefits 

• Procurement teams managing high volumes 
• AP teams implementing touchless invoice processing 
• Finance teams reducing reconciliation time 

eProcurement gets real: Punchout catalogs now available 

Sage Intacct now supports punchout catalogs from vendors, streamlining purchasing into one fluid experience. 

Why it matters 

• Save time with automated, vendor-compliant orders. 
• Reduce errors and manual entry. 
• Improve spend management with centralized visibility. 

Who benefits 

• Operations teams placing regular supply orders 
• Procurement leads enforcing purchasing policies 
• CFOs gaining tighter control on discretionary spend 

Frictionless approvals, even when you’re out: Approval delegation for out-of-office scenarios 

Delegation ensures invoice approvals continue whether someone’s on vacation or out unexpectedly. 

Why it matters 

• Keeps workflows moving during absences. 
• Maintains audit integrity with tracked approvals.
• Enables user-controlled delegation rules. 

Who benefits 

• Finance leaders who travel 
• Distributed teams 
• Organizations with tight payment schedules 

Cleaner chart of accounts: Deactivate unused AP & AR accounts 

Old or unused AP/AR accounts can now be safely deactivated without compromising reporting or prior transactions. 

Why it matters 

• Prevents posting errors 
• Reduces dropdown clutter for faster entry 
• Improves data hygiene in the GL 

Who benefits 

• Controllers maintaining account integrity 
• Data governance teams 
• Anyone entering AP/AR transactions 

One-click AR payments + Stripe integration (EA): AR gets a major usability boost 

You can now apply payments directly from the customer list and accept payments through a new Stripe integration (early adopter). 

Why it matters 

• Streamlines collections and cash application 
• Supports modern, digital-first customer experiences 
• Reduces toggling between AR views 

Who benefits 

• AR clerks managing daily payments 
• Customer service reps resolving billing questions 
• Businesses with high invoice volume 

Smarter bank recs, custom views: Improved matching + new fields 

More fields (like payee IDs and reference numbers) give you greater control over auto-matching rules for reconciliations. 

Why it matters 

• Reduces manual adjustments 
• Improves reconciliation speed and precision 
• Enables entity-specific rules and filtering 

Who benefits 

• Accounting teams managing high transaction volumes 
• Multi-entity organizations with complex banking 
• Month-end warriors 

Timesheet intelligence & overtime automation: Sage intelligent time enhancements 

Time tracking gets a usability upgrade with customize entry grids, apply overtime rules (US-only), and manage leave directly from timesheets. 

Why it matters 

• Automates compliance-driven payroll and billing 
• Gives managers real-time insight into leave balances 
• Eases employee self-service 

Who benefits 

• Services firms billing time 
• HR/payroll administrators 
• Project managers tracking utilization 

Advanced ownership consolidation gets smarter: Equity method support (early adopter) 

The equity method is now supported in Advanced Consolidation enabling more accurate, transparent intercompany accounting. 

Why it matters 

• Automates equity income tracking 
• Increases ownership structure transparency 
• Reduces manual consolidation work 

Who benefits 

• CFOs of holding companies 
• Multi-entity finance teams 
• Audit-preparation stakeholders 

Smarter reporting. Global compliance. Better insights. Reporting enhancements across the board 

• New custom reports for AP approval history, AR refunds 
• Country-specific tax reports (France, Germany, UK, Singapore, etc.) 
• AR Ledger report with new filters for multi-customer selection 
• Updated dashboard visualizations 

Why it matters 

• Enables fast, filterable insights across functions 
• Supports international tax reporting 
• Gives decision-makers more flexibility 

Who benefits 

• Global finance teams 
• Tax compliance managers 
• Analysts building internal dashboards 

Final thought: Focused on what matters most 

Sage Intacct R3 2025 isn’t about flashy features. It’s about removing roadblocks, building resilience, and enabling finance teams to act with clarity and confidence. 

In a world where finance teams are expected to do more with less, R3 2025 is designed to support the work that matters most: 

• Approvals that don’t stall out 
• Payments that just flow 
• Reports that reveal insights, not just numbers 
• Data that drives decisions, not delays 

The R3 2025 release is a testament to Sage Intacct’s ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful enhancements, not just more features. Every update in this release is designed to reduce complexity, increase clarity, and empower your finance team to focus on what matters most. Sage is consistently adding value, expanding capabilities, and deepening the return on your investment by incorporating new enhancements that make a real impact. 

If you’d like guidance on how to make the most of these new features, or want support in evolving your financial workflows, reach out to your BPM Customer Success Manager. We’re here to ensure you’re supported every step of the way on your Sage Intacct journey. 

In the competitive environment of business sales, maximizing company value is about strategically positioning your business to command premium offers. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or simply want to enhance your company’s market position in preparation for a potential future controlling-interest sale or minority investment, understanding how to increase your company’s valuation is critical for business owners and top management.  

Strategies to help maximize your company’s valuation 

This article explores key strategies to optimize your company’s valuation before a sale, helping you secure the financial rewards that reflect your years of business development and dedication. Many of the key elements of success discussed here also apply to preparation for a minority investment or other recapitalization where an ownership takes chips off the table. 

Prepare and organize your financial records strategically 

The foundation of a strong and successful business sale begins with impeccable financial documentation. Potential buyers need clear visibility into your company’s financial health to make confident decisions. Their confidence in your financial records will help improve the ultimate valuation, while discomfort and feelings of financial records risk will, all else being equal, lower valuations. 

“Risk is the denominator in the deal valuation equation. If risk is elevated, deal values will come down. It is critical to manage perceptions of risk to maximize your deal. Your financial record keeping is fundamental to buyers’ ultimate perceptions.” – Kemp Moyer, Partner – Advisory 

Start by ensuring your professional team thoroughly internally reviews and organizes all financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets and cash flow statements. Ensure these records are accurate, up-to-date and presented in a format that clearly demonstrates your company’s financial trajectory. Should you or your team have questions, ask professionals who specialize in transaction accounting, such as quality of earnings report experts.  

Take time to identify and separate recurring from non-recurring expenses. Buyers primarily focus on sustainable earnings, so highlighting your company’s consistent profitability pattern and trending is essential. Key steps to take with a finance and accounting professional include: 

• Cleaning up financial records to address any discrepancies 
• Normalizing financials to reflect true earning potential 
• Documenting all assets and liabilities comprehensively 
• Preparing detailed financial forecasts with realistic and well-supported projections 

A well-organized financial presentation not only streamlines the due diligence process but helps build buyer confidence in your company’s value, which reduces perceptions of risk, and helps elevate valuations. 

Time your sale strategically 

Timing significantly influences sale value, with numerous factors determining the optimal time to enter the market. Regardless of market conditions, being prepared ahead of time will help maximize windows of opportunity. Consider these critical timing elements: 

• Market conditions impact potential sale prices, sometimes dramatically. Robust market conditions typically yield higher valuations as market confidence helps reduce risk perceptions and financing may be more readily available. Identifying and monitoring market comparable and trends in your industry may help identify favorable selling windows. 
• Your business performance trajectory matters. Companies demonstrating revenue and earnings growth attract premium offers. In many market environments, selling during a growth phase can yield greater returns than during plateaus or declines. 
• Economic indicators such as interest rates, lending conditions and investment trends affect buyer behavior. Favorable economic conditions typically create more competitive bidding environments, potentially increasing your company’s value. 
• Seasonal industry patterns may also influence timing. Being able to time your business’ own seasonality, while articulating such to buyers, will help with both timing and narrative supporting the business’ valuation story. 

Assess and optimize operations and infrastructure 

Operational efficiency directly impacts profitability—a key driver of company value. Before a sale, review your business processes to eliminate inefficiencies and demonstrate a well-structured operation to potential buyers. 

• Invest in technology upgrades that showcase your company as modern and scalable. Updated systems not only improve current productivity but signal to buyers that your business is future-ready. 
• Document standard operating procedures thoroughly to demonstrate that your business can function effectively without your personal involvement. Codified processes create valuable institutional knowledge that transfers more effectively with a sale. 
• Assess and address any operational risks or vulnerabilities proactively. Resolving these issues before the sale prevents them from becoming negotiation leverage for buyers. 

Diversify and strengthen your customer base 

A diverse, loyal customer base significantly enhances company value by reducing customer concentration and dependency risk and demonstrating market strength and breadth. Take steps to analyze and strengthen your client relationships: 

• Review your customer concentration ratios, working to reduce dependency on any single client/customer. Ideally, no customer should represent more than 15-20 percent of your revenue. 
• Implement strategies to improve customer retention rates. Long-term clients represent reliable, recurring revenue streams that buyers value highly. 
• Develop case studies and testimonials that showcase successful client relationships. These materials provide powerful evidence of your company’s market value. 
• Secure key contracts with favorable terms when possible. Long-term agreements with automatic renewal provisions or price escalation clauses can significantly increase your intangible market value. 

Develop and incentivize a strong leadership team 

A capable management team that can maintain business performance after your departure significantly increases buyer confidence and company value. To build a strong team, it’s important to: 

• Identify key leadership positions essential to your company’s operations and ensure these roles are filled with qualified professionals. Document clear succession plans for critical roles to demonstrate organizational stability. 
• Implement retention strategies for vital team members, potentially including equity incentives tied to the business sale. Consider performance-based compensation structures that align management goals with business growth and liquidity scenario objectives. 
• Develop leadership training programs that strengthen your management bench, creating depth that reassures potential buyers about continued operational excellence, especially should your sale coincide with ownership-management leaving business operations at the time of, or shortly after, the sale. 

Working with BPM for Business Valuation Services 

Maximizing your company’s value before a sale requires preparation and strategic planning across multiple business dimensions. From organizing and developing assurance around financial records, to aligning systems, operations and management with your liquidity planning, as well as understanding the fundamental valuation methods and the key levers that will drive market values, each element contributes to securing the highest possible transaction value.  

Working with BPM provides you with experienced advisors who understand the complexities of business transaction planning and can guide you through the process and planning to achieve optimal results. Our team can help you navigate key steps with confidence, ensuring your business commands the premium value it deserves. To find out more, contact us.  

A financial plan serves as the roadmap to achieving your short and long-term financial goals. For high-net-worth individuals, comprehensive financial planning goes beyond basic budgeting — it’s about optimizing wealth, minimizing tax exposure, and ensuring your legacy continues according to your wishes.  

“A financial plan isn’t just about numbers — it’s about creating a clear path toward your goals, making confident decisions along the way, and ensuring your wealth supports what matters most to you.” 

At BPM, we understand that your financial situation requires nuanced strategies and personalized attention. 

The foundation of financial planning for high-net-worth individuals 

A well-crafted financial plan identifies, organizes, and prioritizes your financial goals while outlining the specific steps needed to achieve them. For affluent individuals and families, financial planning encompasses sophisticated strategies across multiple areas of wealth management. 

Your financial plan should be flexible enough to adapt to life changes and unexpected events, whether that’s an opportunity to acquire a business, a major market shift, or changes in your family structure. The goal is to create a living document that evolves with your circumstances while keeping your core objectives in focus. 

Key components of a comprehensive financial plan 

High-net-worth individuals tend to require more sophisticated planning elements than the average investor. Your financial plan may want to address these areas: 

• Wealth preservation and growth strategies — Customized investment portfolios aligned with your risk tolerance, time horizon, and wealth objectives 
• Tax optimization — Structured approaches to minimize tax liabilities across multiple income streams and investment vehicles 
• Estate planning and wealth transfer — Strategies for efficiently transferring assets to the next generation or philanthropic causes 
• Risk management — Protecting your assets against market volatility, liability concerns, and other potential threats 
• Business succession planning — For business owners, creating a roadmap for transitioning leadership and ownership 
• Retirement planning — Ensuring your lifestyle can be maintained regardless of market conditions 

What distinguishes high-net-worth financial planning is the integration of these components into a cohesive strategy. Rather than treating each area separately, your financial plan should leverage relationships between different aspects of your financial life to help maximize benefits and efficiencies. 

Creating your personalized financial plan 

Step 1: Define clear financial objectives 

Begin by articulating what success looks like for you. This might include maintaining a specific lifestyle during retirement, funding educational opportunities for children or grandchildren, supporting philanthropic interests, or ensuring family wealth extends for generations. 

The more specific your goals, the more tailored your financial plan can be. Consider both timeframes and dollar amounts where applicable. 

Step 2: Assess your current financial position 

Before charting a course forward, it can be essential to understand where you stand today. This includes: 

• A comprehensive inventory of assets and liabilities 
• Analysis of income sources and cash flow patterns
• Evaluation of current investment allocations and performance 
• Review of existing estate planning documents 
• Assessment of tax efficiency across your financial universe 

This evaluation is designed to create the baseline from which your financial plan will develop. For high-net-worth individuals, this can often reveal opportunities for optimization that might otherwise remain hidden. 

Step 3: Develop targeted strategies 

With clear objectives and a thorough understanding of your financial landscape, you’re ready to develop specific strategies to bridge the gap between your current position and desired outcomes. These might include: 

• Advanced asset allocation approaches that balance growth, income, and capital preservation 
• Tax-advantaged investment vehicles and timing strategies 
• Trust structures designed to achieve specific wealth transfer objectives 
• Risk mitigation techniques beyond traditional insurance 
• Strategic philanthropic approaches that align with both charitable goals and tax planning 

Step 4: Implement with precision 

The most sophisticated financial plan provides no value until it’s implemented. This phase requires coordination among various professionals including investment advisors, tax strategists, estate attorneys, and insurance specialists. Having all these services working together supports consistent execution and communication. 

Step 5: Monitor and adapt continuously 

Financial planning for high-net-worth individuals isn’t a one-time event but an ongoing process. Regular reviews can allow for adjustments based on: 

• Changes in personal or family circumstances 
• Shifts in tax laws or financial regulations 
• Market conditions and investment performance
• Evolving financial goals and priorities 

When to revisit your financial plan 

While continuous monitoring can be essential, certain life events should trigger a more comprehensive review of your financial plan: 

• Significant business transactions (sales, acquisitions, or succession events) 
• Major family changes (marriages, divorces, births, or deaths) 
• Substantial changes in net worth or income 
• Relocation, especially to a different tax jurisdiction 
• Major tax law changes or regulatory shifts 

Each of these inflection points presents both challenges and opportunities that a well-designed financial plan can address. 

The value of integrated financial planning 

One of the most common pitfalls for high-net-worth individuals is fragmented financial planning. When investment, tax, estate, and business advisors operate in silos, the result can be inefficiency, missed opportunities, and occasionally contradictory strategies. 

At BPM, our integrated approach is designed to support all aspects of your financial life. By having tax, wealth advisors, and business consultants under the same company collaborating on your financial plan, we may identify synergies that specialized advisors working independently might miss. 

Take the next step toward financial clarity 

Your wealth represents more than numbers on a balance sheet — it embodies your life’s work, your family’s security, and your legacy for future generations. A thoughtfully crafted financial plan helps to ensure your wealth serves your values and goals, both now and for decades to come. 

At BPM, our professionals specialize in creating customized financial plans for high-net-worth individuals and families that address the complexities and opportunities unique to substantial wealth. Our team of advisors works collaboratively which can help optimize all aspects of your financial life. 

“We’re here to help simplify the complex and bring all the pieces of your financial life together. Our goal is to support you with thoughtful guidance so you can focus on what matters most.” 

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and discover how our integrated approach to financial planning can help you achieve your most important objectives. Let us help you transform financial complexity into clarity and confidence. 

Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC | Investment Advisory services offered through BPM Wealth Advisors, LLC and/or Valmark Advisers, Inc. a SEC Registered Investment Advisor. BPM LLP and BPM Wealth Advisors, LLC are entities separate from Valmark Securities, Inc. and Valmark Advisers, Inc. 

The real estate industry is no stranger to cycles of uncertainty, but 2025 presents a unique landscape of challenges and opportunities that demand strategic thinking and careful navigation. As economic headwinds persist and market dynamics shift, understanding where the industry is headed—and how to position your business accordingly—has never been more critical. 

Our recent Real Estate Pulse Survey, conducted in May and June with industry professionals, reveals telling insights about where real estate leaders see the market heading. Combined with broader industry data, these findings paint a picture of cautious optimism tempered by very real concerns about the road ahead.  

Note: Respondents were allowed to select up to three options per question in some cases. Percentages reflect the proportion of respondents who selected each option, not a sum total. 

Economic uncertainty tops industry concerns 

When we asked real estate professionals about their biggest worries for the remainder of 2025, the responses were clear and consistent. Economic uncertainty emerged as the overwhelming top concern, with nearly 70% of respondents identifying it as a major issue. This aligns closely with broader market sentiment, as trade policy changes and geopolitical tensions continue to create volatility. 

High interest rates remain the second-biggest concern, affecting approximately 60% of respondents. This finding reflects the ongoing challenge of elevated borrowing costs that have persisted throughout 2025, making financing more expensive and development projects more difficult to pencil out. 

Other significant concerns include: 

• Occupancy rates (around 40% of respondents) 
• Ability to secure debt (approximately 30%) 
• Labor constraints (roughly 15%) 
• Operational efficiency (about 15%) 

These concerns aren’t unfounded. According to CBRE’s recent mid-year market outlook, economic uncertainty and elevated long-term interest rates continue to create headwinds for investment activity, though fundamentals remain relatively stable across most commercial real estate sectors. 

A surprisingly optimistic long-term outlook 

Despite these near-term concerns, our survey revealed an interesting dichotomy in market sentiment. When asked about the commercial real estate market’s prospects a year from now, responses were almost evenly split between those expecting improvement and those anticipating stability. 

Nearly half (47.4%) of respondents expect the market to be stronger in a year, while 44.7% believe it will stay about the same. Only 7.9% anticipate weaker conditions—a remarkably small percentage given current economic uncertainties. 

This optimism suggests that while industry professionals acknowledge short-term headwinds, they maintain confidence in the fundamental strength of real estate as an asset class and the underlying drivers of demand. 

Multifamily and data centers lead investment opportunities 

Our survey participants see clear winners emerging in the current market environment. Multifamily housing dominated as the top investment opportunity, with over 60% of respondents identifying it as presenting the best prospects for the next 12 months. 

This confidence in multifamily aligns with CBRE’s findings that the sector began stabilizing in the first half of 2025, with the first appreciable year-over-year increase in national multifamily rent in over a year. While some high-supply markets face extended recovery timelines, the sector’s fundamentals remain solid. 

Data centers and warehouse/distribution facilities rounded out the top three asset types, both receiving double-digit support from survey respondents. The data center outlook is particularly compelling, with CBRE reporting record-low vacancy rates and preleasing of new construction consistently above 75% across primary markets. 

Secondary opportunities worth watching 

While the big three dominate attention, our survey revealed other sectors garnering interest: 

• Office properties (approximately 25% of respondents) 
• Warehousing and distribution (around 25%) 
• Retail properties (roughly 20%) 
• Senior housing (about 15%) 

Private equity emerges as the most active investor type 

One of the most significant findings from our survey relates to investor activity. Private equity topped the rankings as the investor type expected to be most active in the commercial real estate market over the next 12 months, with the type selected the most and highest. 

Family offices and REITs followed closely behind, suggesting that institutional capital remains committed to real estate despite current headwinds. This finding indicates that while public markets may show volatility, private capital sources continue to see compelling opportunities in commercial real estate. 

The dominance of private equity aligns with broader market trends showing that alternative investment strategies are gaining favor as traditional financing becomes more challenging to secure. 

Market fundamentals show signs of improvement 

Perhaps most encouraging for the industry, our survey respondents see positive momentum building in several key areas. Transaction activity topped the list of factors expected to improve, with over 55% of respondents expressing optimism about increased deal flow. 

Other areas where respondents expect improvement include: 

• Availability of capital (40% of respondents) 
• Cost of capital (approximately 32%) 
• Vacancy levels (around 37%) 
• Cap rate reduction (roughly 30%) 
• Rental rates (about 20%) 

These expectations suggest that while current conditions remain challenging, industry professionals anticipate a gradual normalization of market conditions as uncertainty diminishes and capital markets stabilize. 

CBRE’s research supports this optimism, noting that commercial real estate investment activity is expected to grow by 10% in 2025 to $437 billion, despite remaining below pre-pandemic averages. 

Technology integration accelerates across the sector 

Our survey also explored where artificial intelligence and technology adoption will have the most impact in real estate over the next year. The results show a clear focus on operational efficiency and risk management. 

Property management and operations emerged as the top area where AI will provide value, with over 50% of respondents identifying this application. Financial modeling followed closely behind at approximately 45%, with property valuation and underwriting/risk assessment tied for third place. 

This focus on technology adoption reflects the industry’s recognition that operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making will be crucial competitive advantages in the current environment. 

Strategic implications for real estate professionals 

The survey findings suggest several strategic considerations for real estate professionals navigating the current market: 

Focus on defensive strategies 

With economic uncertainty dominating concerns, prioritizing defensive investment strategies and maintaining strong balance sheets will be crucial. This might mean focusing on properties with stable, long-term lease structures or markets with strong demographic fundamentals. 

Embrace technology adoption 

The emphasis on AI applications in property management and financial modeling suggests that firms investing in technology capabilities will gain competitive advantages. Consider how automation and data analytics can improve operational efficiency and decision-making processes. 

Position for the recovery 

With nearly half of respondents expecting market improvement within a year, this may be an opportune time to position for the upturn. Whether that means securing attractive financing while others wait on the sidelines or identifying undervalued assets, preparation for improved conditions could pay dividends. 

Monitor capital sources carefully 

The dominance of private equity and family offices as active investor types suggests that building relationships with these capital sources will be crucial for deal flow and financing opportunities. 

Looking ahead: Preparation meets opportunity 

While uncertainty continues to characterize the real estate market, our survey results suggest that industry professionals maintain a fundamentally optimistic outlook. The key to navigating this environment successfully lies in balancing defensive strategies with opportunistic positioning. 

The convergence of economic pressures, technological advancement, and shifting investor preferences creates both challenges and opportunities. Real estate professionals who can adapt their strategies to align with these trends while maintaining operational excellence will be best positioned for success. 

As market conditions continue to evolve, staying informed about industry trends and maintaining flexibility in strategic planning will be essential. The current environment rewards those who can make data-driven decisions while managing risk appropriately. 

Ready to navigate the evolving real estate landscape? Our team at BPM understands the complexities facing real estate professionals today. From tax strategy and financial planning to operational optimization, we’re here to help you make informed decisions in any market environment. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your real estate business through these dynamic times. 

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025, represents one of the most significant tax reforms affecting technology companies in recent years. If you’re leading a tech business, this sweeping legislation brings both substantial opportunities and new complexities that demand your immediate attention. 

The bill’s impact extends far beyond traditional tax relief. With over $1 billion in new AI investments and fundamental changes to research and development tax treatment, OBBBA signals a clear federal commitment to innovation while introducing new compliance challenges. 

Relief for R&D expenses 

One of OBBBA’s most impactful provisions directly addresses a pain point that has plagued tech companies since 2022. The requirement to capitalize and amortize research and experimentation (R&E) expenses over five years domestically—and 15 years for foreign activities—created unexpected cash flow challenges, particularly for startups and growth-stage companies. 

What changes immediately 

OBBBA permanently restores immediate deductions for domestic R&E expenses, providing the certainty your tax planning has been missing. More importantly, the legislation offers flexibility in how you handle the transition: 

• Small businesses can amend prior years’ returns to claim refunds for previously capitalized expenses 
• All taxpayers can choose to deduct unamortized costs from 2022-2024 over either one or two years 
• Software development costs are explicitly included in qualifying R&E expenses 

However, foreign R&E activities remain subject to the 15-year amortization requirement, which means your international research strategy may need adjustment. 

Strategic implications for your business 

This change fundamentally alters the cash flow dynamics of R&D investments. For companies with significant domestic research activities, the restoration of immediate expensing can free up substantial cash that was previously tied up in amortization schedules. Consider reviewing your research allocation between domestic and international operations to maximize these benefits. 

Capital investment incentives accelerate innovation 

OBBBA brings back 100% bonus depreciation permanently for qualifying property acquired and placed in service after January 19, 2025. This represents a significant reversal from the gradual phase-down that began in 2023. 

Equipment and infrastructure investments 

For tech companies investing in critical infrastructure, this provision offers immediate tax benefits for: 

• Laboratory and testing equipment 
• Manufacturing facilities and cleanroom construction 
• IT infrastructure and data center equipment 
• Specialized software development hardware 

The ability to fully deduct these investments in the year they’re placed in service can dramatically improve your cash flow and accelerate expansion plans. 

Enhanced AI funding creates new opportunities 

While OBBBA tightens some areas of tax policy, it opens significant opportunities through federal AI investments exceeding $1 billion. These investments span multiple sectors and could create substantial contract opportunities for tech companies. 

Federal AI spending breakdown 

The legislation allocates substantial funding across various AI initiatives: 

• $250 million for AI systems at U.S. Cyber Command 
• $450 million for naval AI and automation integration 
• $145 million for unmanned systems AI development 
• $250 million for broader AI ecosystem advancement 

Positioning for government contracts 

If your company develops AI solutions, cybersecurity tools, or defense-adjacent technologies, these investments represent substantial market opportunities. The federal government’s accelerated AI adoption timeline through 2029 suggests sustained demand for innovative solutions. 

The bigger picture for tech companies 

These investments signal that the federal government is becoming a major customer for AI technologies, with sustained demand through 2029. For tech companies, this means: 

1. New revenue streams: Government contracts can provide stable, long-term revenue 
2. R&D funding opportunities: Some of this money may flow through grants and research partnerships 
3. Market validation: Government adoption often leads to broader commercial acceptance 

4. Scale opportunities: Federal contracts are typically large enough to help companies scale rapidly 

The key is that these aren’t just one-time purchases—they represent a strategic shift toward AI-first government operations, suggesting sustained demand for these technologies well beyond the initial funding period. 

Interest deduction improvements for leveraged companies 

OBBBA permanently returns interest expense limitations to the more favorable EBITDA-based calculation, moving away from the restrictive EBIT standard implemented in 2022. This change primarily benefits larger tech companies with significant debt obligations. 

Impact on capital-intensive operations 

For companies relying on debt financing to fund infrastructure development, manufacturing expansion, or large-scale R&E initiatives, this modification provides meaningful relief. The inclusion of depreciation and amortization in the base calculation increases deductible interest amounts and improves after-tax cash flow. 

Regulatory compliance landscape shifts 

The legislation creates a complex regulatory environment for AI development. While OBBBA initially proposed a 10-year moratorium on state-level AI regulation, lawmakers ultimately removed this provision, leaving companies to navigate an evolving patchwork of state requirements. 

Preparing for compliance complexity 

Without federal preemption, you’ll need to monitor and comply with varying state regulations around AI ethics, privacy, and transparency. This regulatory fragmentation may increase compliance costs and complexity, particularly for companies operating across multiple states. 

FinTech relief through 1099-K adjustments 

OBBBA provides targeted relief for FinTech companies by modifying Form 1099-K reporting requirements. Starting in 2026, the legislation repeals the $600 threshold and restores the previous requirements of $20,000 and 200 transactions per payee annually. 

This rollback reduces administrative burden for payment processors, marketplaces, and peer-to-peer platforms while maintaining appropriate oversight for larger transaction volumes. 

R&D tax credits: valuable but more complex 

While R&D credits remain available and valuable for tech companies, new IRS documentation requirements significantly increase the compliance burden. You’ll need more detailed technical data and contemporaneous records to support credit claims. 

Balancing benefits with compliance costs 

For companies with substantial software development or research activities, these credits continue to provide meaningful value. However, budget for increased professional services costs to meet the heightened documentation standards. 

Strategic planning priorities for tech companies 

OBBBA’s complexity requires immediate strategic assessment across multiple areas of your business. Consider these priority actions: 

Financial and tax planning review 

• Evaluate the cash flow impact of restored R&E deductibility 
• Assess capital expenditure timing to maximize bonus depreciation benefits 
• Review international structure efficiency under new GILTI provisions 
• Model the effects of enhanced interest deductibility on financing decisions 

Operational adjustments 

• Align internal processes with evolving R&D credit documentation requirements 
• Develop state-by-state AI compliance monitoring procedures 
• Assess government contracting opportunities in AI and cybersecurity sectors 
• Review FinTech reporting obligations under modified 1099-K rules 

Long-term strategic considerations 

The legislation’s timeline extends through 2029, particularly for AI-related investments and infrastructure development. Your strategic planning should account for this extended implementation period and the sustained federal commitment to innovation it represents. 

Moving forward with confidence 

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act fundamentally reshapes the tax and regulatory landscape for technology companies. While the legislation provides substantial opportunities for tax savings and business growth, it also introduces new complexities that require careful navigation. 

The key to maximizing OBBBA’s benefits while managing its challenges lies in proactive planning and strategic implementation. By addressing these changes systematically, you can position your company to thrive in this new environment. 

Ready to develop a comprehensive strategy? Our tax and advisory professionals can help you evaluate opportunities, manage compliance requirements, and optimize your approach to this complex legislation. Contact BPM today to discuss how these changes affect your specific situation and develop an action plan tailored to your business needs. 

Private companies face unique challenges when determining the value of their equity, especially when issuing stock options or other equity securities to employees, contractors and service providers. Unlike publicly-traded companies, which have readily available prevailing market prices, private companies must rely on independent appraisals to establish fair market value and fair value in various critical compliance matters. This process becomes critical for tax compliance and protecting stakeholders from IRS penalties, as well as when supporting a financial audit (ASC 718 compliance) and potentially registering with the SEC. 

A 409A valuation serves as the cornerstone of equity compensation planning for private companies, providing the framework for legally compliant stock option programs. This article will explore the fundamentals of 409A valuations, when companies need them, the valuation process and how to select the right provider. 

Understanding 409A valuations 

A 409A valuation represents an independent analysis of a private company’s fair market value, conducted by qualified third-party appraisers. Companies use this valuation to determine the strike price for employee stock options and ensure compliance with Internal Revenue Code Section 409A. Specifically, the analysis ensures that the Company is not underpricing the equity instrument relative to fair market value as of the date of grant, exercise and/or vesting, depending on security type.  

The valuation establishes the per-share value of common stock (or equivalent), which may differ significantly from the preferred stock prices that investors pay during venture equity fundraising rounds. This distinction matters because employees typically receive common stock options, not the preferred shares that carry additional rights and protections. 

“An independent, qualified and accurate 3^rd party valuation will ensure compliance with tax and other regulatory requirements, as well as ensuring fairness for all stakeholders. Considering the importance of equity to any company, it is critical that top management and boards of directors seek well-qualified, hands on, expert support.” – Kemp Moyer – Partner, Advisory 

When companies need 409A valuations 

Companies must obtain 409A valuations before issuing stock options to employees, contractors or advisors, as well as when exercise takes place. Additionally, if restricted stock units (RSUs) or other equivalents are used in a compensation plan, the FMV of the underlying stock is required for reporting at vesting.  

The timing becomes crucial around material events that could affect company value. Fundraising rounds represent the most common material event trigger for new valuation requirements, as they provide clear market data about investor perception of company worth, and often have arms’ length market negotiations, which provide critical evidence to fair market value conclusions. Other material events may include significant customer contracts, acquisitions, strategic partnerships or regulatory changes that impact the business landscape. 

Companies also need more regularly refreshed valuations before major liquidity events like IPOs, mergers or acquisitions. These situations require updated assessments to ensure accurate equity pricing leading up to the transaction process, as value indications can change rapidly and draw additional regulatory scrutiny. 

Valuation validity and refresh requirements 

409A valuations remain valid for a maximum of twelve months from the valuation date, unless a material event occurs sooner. This twelve-month maximum window provides companies with some pricing certainty for their equity programs while ensuring valuations stay reasonably current. 

Material events reset this timeline, requiring companies to obtain updated valuations regardless of when they completed their last analysis. The definition of materiality depends on the specific circumstances but generally includes any event that could materially affect stock price. 

Safe harbor protection 

The IRS provides “safe harbor” status for 409A valuations conducted by independent, qualified appraisers. This protection presumes the valuation is reasonable unless the IRS can prove it’s “grossly unreasonable” – a high standard that provides significant protection for companies and employees. 

Safe harbor status requires meeting specific criteria: the appraiser must be independent and qualified, the valuation must use accepted methodologies and the assessment must occur within twelve months of option grants without intervening material events. 

Consequences of non-compliance 

Companies that fail to obtain proper 409A valuations face severe penalties. Employees receiving mispriced options may owe immediate taxes on all deferred compensation from current and prior years, plus a 20 percent additional tax penalty and accrued interest. 

These penalties apply to employees, not the company, but create significant liability concerns and can damage employee relations and significantly impact key employee morale and retention. The financial impact often far exceeds the cost of obtaining proper valuations, and the business impact of non-compliance can ultimately be substantial, as often the most key employees and top management are covered by an equity plan. 

Valuation methodologies 

Appraisers use three primary approaches when conducting 409A valuations, often combining multiple methods for comprehensive assessments. 

• The market approach compares the company to similar public companies and/or recent transaction data. For companies with recent fundraising, appraisers often employ the option pricing model backsolve method, which uses the preferred stock price as a critical reference point while adjusting and accounting for the rights and preferences differential between preferred and common shares. 
• The income approach focuses on expected future cash flows, discounted to present value based on risk factors. This method works well for companies with established revenue streams and somewhat predictable cash flows. 
• The asset approach or cost approach calculates net asset value, including development of intangible values, as needed, and typically applies to early-stage companies without significant revenue or recent fundraising activity. 

Selecting a valuation provider 

Companies should prioritize providers with relevant experience, proper qualifications and track records of IRS compliance. Qualified appraisers need at least five years of experience in business valuations, financial accounting, investment banking or related fields and should be certified (ASA, CVA, CFA, ABV or equivalent). 

The analysis should be led by an individual who has the requisite experience and use generally accepted valuation methodologies and supportable key assumptions. They must also deliver comprehensive reports that document their analysis and comply with Section 409A guidelines. 

Cost considerations vary widely, depending on company complexity. Some providers offer standalone services while others bundle valuations with cap table management and other services.  

A qualified valuation for 409A purposes should also be qualified to stand up to financial reporting scrutiny under FASB ASC 718 and hold up to SEC standards in the event of a potential public offering or public company acquisition. Should a provider express concern at supporting valuations through ASC 718 review, or indicate the report would not hold up to ASC 718 or SEC scrutiny, it is a red flag.  

Working with BPM  

BPM brings decades of collective experience in 409A valuations across diverse industries and company stages. Our qualified appraisers understand the nuances of private company valuation and maintain current knowledge of IRS requirements and market practices. We work closely with management teams to ensure timely, compliant valuations that support your equity compensation objectives. Our analyses are compliant with FASB guidelines and we have a team that is very comfortable with supporting clients through an SEC process.  

Our comprehensive approach combines technical rigor with practical business understanding, delivering valuations that withstand scrutiny while supporting your growth plans. We recognize that 409A valuations represent more than compliance requirements – they form the foundation of your employee equity programs and long-term value creation strategy. To learn how our team can support your equity compensation planning and ensure IRS compliance, contact us.   

As a business owner or HR professional, you’re likely aware that employment-related lawsuits are becoming increasingly common. The reality is that even well-intentioned employers can find themselves facing costly legal battles when workplace policies aren’t properly implemented or when management decisions lack proper workflows and processes.

Understanding the most frequent causes of employee lawsuits can help you proactively address potential issues before they escalate into legal challenges. Let’s explore the top reasons why employees take legal action against their employers and what you can do to minimize these risks.

Why employment lawsuits are on the rise

The modern workplace has become more complex, with evolving regulations, remote work arrangements, and heightened employee awareness of their rights. Workers today are more informed about employment law and more willing to pursue legal remedies when they feel their rights have been violated.

The financial impact of these lawsuits extends beyond settlement costs. Legal fees, lost productivity, damaged reputation, and the time invested in defending claims can significantly impact your bottom line.

The top 10 reasons employees sue employers

1. Inconsistent treatment of employees

When managers treat similar employees differently without legitimate business justification, it creates a foundation for discrimination claims. This often happens when:

• Performance standards or expectations vary between employees in similar roles  
• Disciplinary actions are applied inconsistently  
• Workplace policies are enforced selectively  

What you can do: Develop clear, consistent processes for performance management, ideally utilizing a robust performance tool and holding employees and managers accountable throughout the journey. Ensure managers and employees are embracing the process. If no tool is in place, ensure policies and standards are uniformly applied across all employees in similar situations.

2. Inadequate supervisor training

Untrained supervisors often make decisions that expose your organization to legal risk. They may mishandle employee complaints, fail to recognize potential legal issues, or make employment decisions without understanding the implications.

What you can do: Implement comprehensive supervisor training programs that cover:

• Recognizing and addressing workplace complaints  
• Understanding when to escalate issues to HR  
• Proper documentation techniques  
• Basic employment law principles  

3. Poor performance process and/or tool

Many employers struggle with employee performance issues consistently, when in fact training your supervisors to stretch, support and hold employees accountable will benefit all involved and likely increase productivity throughout the organization. Lack of documentation of performance issues is something you don’t want to happen when you want to terminate someone. This doesn’t mean, pen to paper, this means a process where responsibilities and goals are discussed, and progress captured. Regular, ongoing, performance conversations between an employee and manager where accountability is the norm and proof of those conversations are captured are ideal. When termination becomes necessary, inadequate documentation can turn a defensible decision into a costly settlement.

“Often times performance management is not a priority for organizations, when in fact it can be a cultural game changer. Giving employees measurable goals that they create, and updating those regularly to ensure they are practicable, yet a stretch creates employee empowered accountability”, says Jill Pappenheimer.

What you can do: Create a culture of regular documentation that includes:

• Specific examples of performance issues  
• Clear expectations and improvement plans  
• Regular feedback sessions  
• Objective, fact-based records  

4. Wage and hour violations

Improper time tracking, misclassification of employees, and incorrect overtime calculations are common sources of lawsuits. These issues often stem from:

• Inadequate timekeeping systems  
• Misunderstanding exemption requirements  
• Failure to track all compensable time  

What you can do: Implement robust timekeeping systems and regularly audit your pay practices. Review employee classifications periodically to verify compliance with current regulations.

5. Mishandling accommodation requests

When employees request workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers must engage in an interactive process. Dismissing requests without proper consideration can lead to discrimination claims.

What you can do: Develop a structured process for handling accommodation requests that includes:

• Thorough evaluation of each request  
• Documentation of the interactive process  
• Consideration of all reasonable alternatives  
• Clear communication with the employee  

6. Inadequate complaint investigations

Failing to properly investigate employee complaints can result in hostile work environment claims and retaliation lawsuits. Common mistakes include:

• Delaying or avoiding investigations  
• Conducting superficial reviews  
• Failing to document the process  
• Not following up with complainants  

What you can do: Establish clear investigation procedures with designated investigators and specific timelines. Document all steps and communicate findings appropriately to the parties involved.

7. Ignoring company policies

When employers fail to consistently enforce their own policies, it can create legal vulnerability. This includes:

• Selective enforcement of handbook rules  
• Outdated policies that don’t reflect current practices  
• Lack of employee awareness about existing policies  

What you can do: Regularly review and update your employee handbook. Train managers on policy enforcement and create accountability measures for consistent application.

8. Misclassification of workers

Incorrectly classifying employees as independent contractors or exempt employees can result in significant financial liability. This area of law continues to evolve, making compliance challenging.

What you can do: Regularly review worker classifications and stay current with changing regulations. When in doubt, consult with employment law professionals to assess your classification practices.

9. Inadequate leave administration

Failing to properly administer family and medical leave can result in multiple types of claims. Common issues include:

• Not recognizing qualifying leave situations  
• Inadequate communication about leave rights 
• Failing to consider additional accommodations after leave exhaustion  

What you can do: Develop comprehensive leave policies that address various types of leave and train administrators on proper procedures. Consider how different leave laws may interact and overlap.

10. Toxic workplace culture

While not all unpleasant workplace behavior is illegal, a toxic work environment can create conditions that lead to unlawful conduct. This includes:

• Tolerating bullying or harassment  
• Failing to address interpersonal conflicts  
• Lack of clear reporting mechanisms  

What you can do: Foster a positive workplace culture through:

• Clear anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies  
• Regular training on respectful workplace behavior  
• Multiple reporting channels for concerns  
• Swift action when issues arise  

Building a proactive approach to employment law compliance

Understanding common lawsuit triggers is just the first step—the real protection comes from building proactive compliance practices. Most employment-related legal issues are preventable with the right policies, training, and documentation in place. Here’s how to create that foundation:

• Regular policy reviews and updates  
  Your employee handbook and policies should be living documents, ideally found on your intranet that evolve with changing laws and business needs. Schedule regular review periods to identify areas that need updating. 
• Investment in training and development  
  Ongoing education for both managers and employees helps create awareness of rights and responsibilities. Consider topics such as: 
  • Anti-harassment and discrimination training 
  • Workplace safety protocols 
  • Proper documentation techniques 
  • Communication skills for difficult conversations 

• Electronic documentation best practices Consistent documentation practices protect your organization and provide clarity for employees. Focus on capturing: 
  • Objective, factual records 
  • Timely documentation of incidents 
  • Regular performance feedback 
  • Clear communication of expectations 

• When to seek professional guidance While many employment law issues can be prevented through good practices, some situations require professional legal counsel. Consider consulting with employment law attorneys when: 
  • Facing complex accommodation requests 
  • Dealing with serious misconduct allegations 
  • Navigating layoffs or restructuring 
  • Implementing significant policy changes 

• Protecting your business and your employees Creating a legally compliant workplace isn’t just about avoiding lawsuits—it’s about building an environment where employees feel valued and protected. When you invest in proper policies, training, and procedures, you create a foundation for both legal compliance and employee satisfaction. 

The key is to be proactive rather than reactive. By addressing potential issues before they become legal problems, you can focus on what matters most: growing your business and supporting your team.

Need help navigating employment law compliance? The experienced HR professionals at BPM can help you develop policies and procedures that help protect your business while supporting your employees. Our HR consulting team works with organizations of all sizes to create comprehensive human resource compliance strategies tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to learn how we can support your business’s success while minimizing legal risks.

Running a business is like navigating a ship through ever-changing waters. At each stage of your company’s journey, you face unique challenges that require different strategies, resources, and approaches. While many business leaders focus on sales, marketing, or operational efficiency, navigating your business through each phase of the business life cycle can be like steering the ship without a compass and a map.

Project management serves as your company’s “map and compass” – when applied thoughtfully throughout your business lifecycle, it becomes a powerful tool for growth, efficiency, and long-term success. Let’s walk through how project management can transform your business at every stage.

Understanding the business lifecycle through a project lens

Most businesses follow a typical pattern of growth, from initial startup through maturity and eventual transformation or decline. What makes the difference between companies that thrive and those that struggle isn’t just having great products or services; it’s how well they manage the projects and initiatives that drive their evolution.

Think about your own business. Whether you’re launching your first product, scaling operations, or looking for new opportunities, you’re essentially managing a series of interconnected projects. Each phase of your business lifecycle presents distinct challenges that require tailored project management approaches.

Start-up and introduction phase: Building your foundation

When you’re in the startup phase, everything feels urgent and overwhelming. You’re developing products, researching markets, and trying to establish your brand — usually with limited resources and tight timelines.

Key project management priorities

The startup phase is where many businesses either gain momentum or lose their way. During this critical time, project management helps you channel your energy and resources effectively by:

• Establishing, defining and documenting strategic objectives, scope of products and services to be launched in the startup phase, performance goals, and success criteria for your initial offerings 
• Developing a clear roadmap with realistic timelines that account for the uncertainties of a new business 
• Creating detailed project plans that guide your product development process 
• Establishing budget parameters and resource allocation strategies 
• Identifying and managing potential risks before they become costly problems 

Strong project management practices help you maintain direction when everything around you feels chaotic. By establishing structured approaches to your key initiatives, you create the foundation for sustainable growth.

Common challenges and solutions

Many startups struggle with scope creep, unrealistic timelines, and resource constraints. Project management addresses these issues by providing frameworks for decision-making and prioritization. When you have clear project parameters, it’s easier to say “no” to distractions and “yes” to opportunities that align with your goals.

Growth phase: Scaling with purpose

The growth phase brings exciting opportunities but also complex challenges. You’re expanding into new markets, scaling production, and often adding team members. This is where project management becomes critical to maintaining quality and direction.

Strategic alignment and resource optimization

During rapid growth, it’s easy to lose sight of your core objectives and become overwhelmed with managing expanded operations. Project management helps you:

• Align all expansion initiatives with your strategic objectives 
• Manage the risks that come with rapid scaling and market penetration by identifying and managing business compliance requirements that come with adding headcount and doing business in new locations 
• Optimize resource allocation across multiple projects and departments by implementing process and systems to ensure adequate personnel are available to complete the planned work 
• Foster collaboration between teams that may be growing quickly and may or may not be collocated 
• Maintain adaptability while pursuing ambitious growth targets 

Measuring success and adapting strategies

Growth phase project management requires constant monitoring and adjustment. You need systems that help you track performance across multiple initiatives while remaining flexible enough to pivot when market conditions change. This balance between structure and agility often determines whether companies successfully navigate their growth phase or become overwhelmed by their own success.

Maturity phase: Optimizing for efficiency and competitiveness

When your business reaches maturity, the focus shifts from rapid growth to sustainable profitability and competitive positioning. This doesn’t mean slowing down. It means working smarter.

Efficiency and process improvement

In the maturity phase, project management becomes about optimization:

• Completing projects efficiently while maintaining strict budget controls 
• Maximizing resource utilization across stable operations 
• Managing risks to preserve profitability and market position 
• Implementing process improvements that drive long-term efficiency 
• Identifying opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation 

Staying competitive through strategic updates

Mature businesses face the constant challenge of remaining relevant in evolving markets. Project management helps you systematically approach product updates, service enhancements, and process improvements that build sustained competitive advantage. Rather than “putting out fires” and making ad hoc changes, you can implement structured approaches that build on your established strengths.

Decline or transformation phase: Managing change strategically

Not all businesses face decline, but every successful business eventually needs to transform or diversify. This might mean entering new markets, developing new products, or fundamentally changing your business model.

Strategic transformation management

During transformation, project management helps you:

• Manage downsizing or resource reallocation with minimal disruption 
• Explore new markets and diversification opportunities systematically 
• Develop new value propositions while leveraging existing strengths 
• Learn from past experiences to inform future strategic decisions 

Turning challenges into opportunities

The transformation phase often feels like starting over, but now you have the advantage of experience and established relationships. Strong project management practices help you navigate this transition while preserving what works and changing what doesn’t.

Next step: Understanding the maturity of project management in your business

Your ability to successfully leverage project management strategies over the course of the business lifecycle depends largely on your organization’s project management maturity. This isn’t about having the latest software or following rigid processes. It’s about developing consistent, reliable approaches to managing initiatives.

To assess the maturity of project management in your organization, consider frameworks like the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) or Project Management Maturity Model (PMMM) to evaluate your current capabilities. These tools help you identify areas for improvement and create structured plans for developing stronger project management practices.

Higher project management maturity correlates directly with better business outcomes: projects completed on time, within budget, and meeting stakeholder expectations. More importantly, mature project management capabilities give you the confidence to pursue ambitious initiatives and navigate challenging periods.

Making project management work for your business

The key to successful project management throughout your business lifecycle is recognizing that one size doesn’t fit all. Your approach should evolve as your business grows and changes. What works during startup may not be appropriate during maturity, and what drives growth may not be suitable during transformation.

Start by honestly assessing where your business is in its lifecycle and what challenges you’re facing. Then, consider how structured project management approaches could help you address those specific issues. The goal is to create clarity, efficiency, and strategic alignment.

Taking the next step

Implementing effective project management practices doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re launching your first major initiative or looking to optimize existing operations, the right guidance can make all the difference.

At BPM, we understand that every business is different, and we work with you to develop project management approaches that fit your specific needs and lifecycle stage. Our team can help you assess your current capabilities, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement strategies that drive real results.

Ready to transform how your business manages projects and initiatives? Contact BPM today to discuss how we can support your success at every phase of your business lifecycle.