Why CFOs Are Losing Sleep Over Cloud Performance
Cloud computing was supposed to be the great equalizer—streamlining operations, reducing costs, and empowering teams with real-time access to data. But for many CFOs, the promise hasn’t quite been delivered.
According to the 2025 State of Cloud Networking report from Extreme Networks, 55% of CFOs say poor cloud performance has stunted their operations—a higher rate of frustration than among CMOs, CIOs, or other executives. And in finance, where deadlines are tight and data accuracy is non-negotiable, that frustration often turns into risk.
So, what’s behind this disconnect—and what can finance leaders do about it?
The Culprit: App Sprawl and Fragmented Cloud Networks
One of the report’s clearest takeaways: the average organization is running three or more cloud-based business applications, and 85% of executives believe that complexity is increasing their security risk.
This mirrors what we see across finance teams—disconnected systems for accounting, procurement, budgeting, and reporting. The result?
Data silos
Manual workarounds
Inconsistent reporting
Frustrated teams
For finance leaders, managing performance becomes less about forecasting and more about chasing down clean data.
What Is Platformization—and Why It Matters for Finance
Platformization is the consolidation of core business functions—finance, operations, security, AI, and analytics—into a single, integrated system.
For CFOs, it’s not a tech trend. It’s a strategic shift toward operational clarity and control.
Why Platformization Matters:
Efficiency: 73% of CFOs say platformization improves operational efficiency.
Data Consistency: 68% expect better access to reliable data.
Security: Fewer systems mean fewer vulnerabilities—and stronger built-in safeguards.
A unified ERP like NetSuite is a clear example of this strategy in action. It connects finance, procurement, inventory, projects, and even CRM on a secure, cloud-native platform—removing the need for costly, disjointed systems.
Upskilling Without Overkill
Another key insight: 93% of executives are investing in AI training, but for many, budget is a barrier.
Here’s where ERP can lighten the lift. Instead of training teams on five different systems, finance leaders can enable teams on one platform with role-based views and built-in AI tools like predictive cash flow and demand planning.
The outcome?
More adoption, less friction—and a team that spends more time analyzing data than wrangling it.
Confidence in the Cloud Starts with the Right Platform
Finance leaders are being asked to do more—faster. But it’s hard to drive strategy when you’re bogged down by fragmented tools and slow performance.
ERP platformization offers a different path: one where data is consistent, systems are secure, and teams are aligned. In short, it gives CFOs back the clarity and control they need to lead.
Final Thought
If your tech stack is keeping your finance team up at night, it may not be the network—it may be the sprawl.
NetSuite isn’t just cloud ERP—it’s a smarter foundation for high-performance finance. And Cirrus ERP can help you implement and optimize it for the way your business works. Reach out today to get started.