Analytics
Issue #01 — The Metrics That Actually Predict Revenue
This week: the three leading indicators every service business should watch, why monthly revenue reports lie to you, and a…
Read →Issue #05 · February 24, 2026 · The Operations Weekly
The right technology stack for a service business doing $1M a year is probably not what you think. It’s not a custom ERP. It’s not an enterprise CRM. It’s a small set of well-integrated tools that each do one thing well.
The $1M Stack
Scheduling & dispatch: a purpose-built field service tool with mobile app access for technicians. Customer communication: automated SMS confirmations, reminders, and follow-ups. CRM: a lightweight system focused on pipeline visibility, not feature overload. Invoicing & payments: same-day invoicing with online payment options. Analytics: a single dashboard that pulls from the above systems and shows the 5 metrics that matter.
What to Avoid
All-in-one platforms that claim to do everything usually do everything mediocrely. At the $1M level, you’re better off with best-in-class tools for your highest-priority functions, even if they don’t integrate natively. A $15/month Zapier plan can connect most tools you’d actually need.
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Growth
Issue #02 — Why Your Follow-Up Process Is Costing You 30% of Your Revenue
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Issue #03 — The Hiring Mistake That Keeps Small Businesses Small
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