Welcome to the Stoneforge FAQ page—your guide to how we think, what we do, and how we help. These questions are drawn directly from the concepts and frameworks discussed in The Importance of Numbers in Your Company’s Future and from conversations we’ve had with clients like you.

What is the Stoneforge 5 I’s Framework?

The 5 I’s Framework is the foundation of our strategic approach. It stands for:

• Instinct: What do you believe is true?

• Insight: What does the data say?

• Intention: What decision will you make?

• Implementation: What actions will you take?

• Inspection & Improvement: What happened—and what will you do about it?

This model helps leaders move from gut feeling to measurable outcomes with clarity, discipline, and accountability.

What makes Stoneforge different from other consulting firms?

We don’t just give advice—we partner with our clients to design, execute, and evolve their strategy. Our work combines strategic thinking with financial depth and sales execution. We operate with a hands-on, embedded approach and stay involved from planning to results.

How does Stoneforge use numbers to drive strategy?

We believe numbers are more than reports—they’re tools for better decision-making. We help clients build systems to track performance, identify trends, and create forward-looking financial and operational models. This data becomes the foundation for prioritizing actions, allocating resources, and adjusting strategies in real time.

What size companies do you typically work with?

Our sweet spot is with seven- and eight-figure companies—typically founder-led, high-growth, or pre-scale businesses that want structure without bureaucracy. We work best with leadership teams ready to make bold decisions backed by clear data.

Do I need to be financially savvy to work with Stoneforge?

Not at all. In fact, many of our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed by spreadsheets, reports, or disconnected financials. We break things down clearly and make numbers actionable—so you can lead with confidence, even if finance isn’t your native language.

What industries do you specialize in?

Our approach is industry-agnostic but insight-driven. We’ve worked with clients in SaaS, professional services, health, retail, and technology. What matters most is not the industry—it’s the complexity of your decisions and your readiness to grow.

How do I get started?

Start by booking a discovery call with us. We’ll talk through what’s happening in your business, explore your goals, and map out where Stoneforge can provide immediate clarity and long-term value.

How long do engagements typically last?

We offer both short-term advisory projects and long-term strategic partnerships. Most of our clients begin with a 3–6 month engagement focused on clarity and alignment, then continue with us to implement and optimize over time. The exact duration depends on your goals and pace of execution.

Can you work alongside our existing CFO, COO, or consultants?

Absolutely. We often integrate into existing leadership teams, acting as a strategic force multiplier. Whether supporting an overwhelmed CFO or bringing business strategy into clearer focus for a COO, we collaborate—not compete—with your team.

What happens after the initial strategy is built?

We don’t stop at the plan. Our Implementation and Inspection phases mean we help you activate your strategy, track progress, and adjust in real time. We’re with you through the doing—not just the designing.

What does success look like working with Stoneforge?

For some, it's finally achieving consistent profitability. For others, it's navigating a merger, scaling revenue, or feeling confident in the numbers for the first time. Success is defined at the start—measured throughout—and owned by you. We just help you get there.

What if we don’t know exactly what we need yet?

That’s okay. Many of our clients start with a sense that something’s off—but not a clear diagnosis. Our discovery process is designed to bring clarity to the chaos. You don’t need to know the answer—you just need to be ready to explore it with us.