What metric should be included in every forecast regardless of the facility type?

Including expense ratios in every forecast is essential because they provide a clear representation of the financial health and operational efficiency of a facility. Expense ratios reflect how much of the revenue is being consumed by expenses, helping facility managers understand their cost structure relative to their income. This metric is pivotal across all facility types, as it allows for proper budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation.

Expense ratios enable facility managers to identify areas where they can improve cost management and optimize operations, leading to better overall performance. This is particularly important when making long-term strategic decisions or when evaluating the facility's ability to sustain its operations.

Other metrics, while valuable in certain contexts, might not have the same universal applicability. For example, sales targets are more relevant for facilities directly generating revenue through sales, while market trends and customer feedback may vary significantly depending on the specific industry or operation type. Therefore, expense ratios stand out as a critical and consistent metric in financial forecasts for all types of facilities.