How to stand out using Syft Analytics

Management reports are one of the most powerful tools accountants and bookkeepers can provide to their clients - yet they’re often underutilised or sent inconsistently.

So the real question isn’t whether management reports are important (they absolutely are), but how we can deliver them efficiently, consistently and without adding unnecessary admin to our practices.

That’s where Syft Analytics comes in.

Why Management Reports Matter More Than Ever

Our industry has gone through enormous change over the years:

• From desktop to cloud
• From cloud to automation
• From automation to AI and integrated ecosystems

With this level of change, clients expect more than compliance. They want clarity, insight and proactive advice - and well-structured management reports play a critical role in delivering that value.

When used properly, management reports:

• Help clients understand their numbers
• Highlight trends and issues early
• Reduce reactive “why did this happen?” questions
• Position you as a trusted advisor, not just a compliance provider

The Real Challenge: Time and Consistency

Most accountants and bookkeepers agree that management reports are valuable. The challenge is:

• Preparing them takes time
• Each client wants something slightly different
• Manually sending reports increases admin and risk
• Reports don’t always go out consistently or on time

The solution is standardisation and automation.

Why Syft Analytics Makes Sense

Earlier this year, Xero acquired Syft Analytics, making it an increasingly attractive option for Xero-based practices.

Here’s why many firms are now looking seriously at Syft:

Included with Many Xero Subscriptions

For clients on certain Xero subscription tiers, Syft Analytics is included at no additional cost, making it a very cost-effective reporting solution.

Professional, Consistent Management Reports

Syft allows you to:

• Use pre-built report templates
• Customise reports for individual clients or industries
• Create your own templates from scratch
• Deliver consistent reporting across your client base

Works Across Different Software

While Syft integrates seamlessly with Xero, it also allows you to connect other software, helping you maintain consistent reporting even if not all clients are on the same accounting platform.

What Can You Include in a Syft Management Report?

Syft reports are flexible and can include:

• Executive summaries
• Financial health snapshots
• Income and expense analysis
• Top suppliers and expense categories
• Profit and loss reports
• Commentary and insights

One of the standout features is the interactive live report view. Clients can click into figures - such as income or expenses - to see exactly where the numbers come from.

This often answers questions before they’re even asked, such as:

“Why were expenses higher in October compared to September?”

How to Schedule Management Reports in Syft Analytics

This is where Syft really delivers efficiency.

Within Syft, you can:

• Schedule reports monthly, quarterly or weekly
• Automatically pull data from the previous period
• Choose PDF or live report delivery
• Set the exact day reports are sent (for example, the 5th of each month)
• Add password protection for security
• Receive a reminder email with a preview link before the report is sent

That preview step is particularly valuable - it gives you the opportunity to review the report before it goes to the client.

Taking Reports Further with Video Explanations

One highly effective strategy is adding a short video walkthrough to accompany your management reports.

Using tools like Loom or Vimeo, you can:

• Explain key movements and trends
• Provide context around the numbers
• Guide clients on what to focus on

We’ve consistently found that when video explanations are included:

• Clients are more engaged
• Reports are actually reviewed
• Conversations become more strategic and meaningful

What Does This Mean for You?

Using automated management reporting with Syft Analytics:

• Positions your firm as proactive
• Strengthens client trust
• Reduces manual admin
• Supports advisory conversations
• Improves long-term client retention

Instead of just delivering numbers, you’re delivering clarity, insight and confidence.

Now is a great opportunity to:

• Review your current reporting process
• Standardise management reports across your client base
• Start the new year with a stronger, more proactive advisory offering

Your clients already trust you - consistent, automated management reports help take that trust to the next level.

We love it and our clients do to.

Want more info? We have some webinars for you to see it all in action.