Comparison
ADK Intel vs Spreadsheets
Spreadsheets are where advisory firms start. They're also where firms get stuck. Here's what changes when client health, KPIs, and reports move off Excel.
Request a demoFeature comparison
| Feature | ADK Intel | Spreadsheets |
|---|---|---|
| Auto-refreshing data | Live from GL | Manual paste |
| Multi-client view | Single portfolio screen | One workbook per client |
| AI variance commentary | Auto-drafted | You write it |
| Branded delivery | Portal + PDF | Export to PDF manually |
| Error rate | Low — automated | High — manual formula drift |
| Client self-service | Yes — branded portal | No — you send the file |
| Scorecards persist | Yes — auto-refreshed | Die by month 3 |
ADK Intel workflow
- Connect GL once
- Auto-pulled KPIs + cash + variance
- AI drafts commentary
- Ship branded report
Spreadsheets workflow
- Export GL data weekly
- Paste into workbook
- Fix broken formulas
- Build PowerPoint
- Send PDF
Pick ADK Intel if
- Firms past 5 clients
- Firms tired of broken formulas
- Firms wanting deliverables clients can self-serve
Pick Spreadsheets if
- Single-client engagements
- Highly custom one-off analyses
FAQ
Can I import my existing spreadsheet KPIs?
Yes — KPI definitions migrate during onboarding. Most firms find their KPI library is fully reproduced in days.
Do I lose flexibility moving off spreadsheets?
For 80% of advisory delivery, no — and you gain consistency, auto-refresh, and client self-service. For bespoke one-offs, you can still use Excel and link the output in.
What about my Excel pivot tables and formulas?
Standard analytical patterns (variance, trend, cohort) are built-in. Custom formulas can be added as derived KPIs.
How quickly will my team get comfortable?
Most senior staff is comfortable inside a week. AI-drafted commentary actually makes the work easier than spreadsheet authoring.
ADK Intel was built by operators who ran fractional CFO and CAS practices — and got tired of Sunday-night prep. The team blends advisory firm partners, finance practitioners, and AI engineers who ship US GAAP/IRS-grounded analysis at scale.
Advisors should spend time on judgment, not data shuffling. AI replaces the analyst layer; senior advisors are the moat.
- Fractional CFO operations
- Client Advisory Services (CAS) productization
- Advisor capacity planning
- AI-grounded financial analysis
- White-label advisory delivery
- Standardized monthly client reviews