The Challenge
VTS faced a complex, manual ARR reporting process that relied on Excel spreadsheets and pivot tables, despite efforts to build a system in-house. Handling non-coterminous contracts and exceptions made it difficult to standardize rules, particularly for contracted ARR (CARR), leading to inconsistencies and requiring time-consuming manual reviews. Even after attempting to streamline the process, VTS still spent several days each month reconciling data, with a high risk of human error.
We were dealing with a lot of noise in the contracts. It got to a point where the Excel formulas couldn’t standardize our process anymore.
Carol Ying, VP of Sales Operations
Discern’s Solution
Initially, there was skepticism that Discern could handle the complexities of VTS’s CARR reporting. However, Discern successfully standardized and automated the metric report process, eliminating the need for manual data reconciliation.
I was skeptical at first because of all the complexities, but Discern delivered. Now we can report on ARR and CARR with confidence, without the time-consuming manual effort.
Carol Ying, VP of Sales Operations
The Process
During the implementation process, Discern’s team worked closely with VTS to map and define subscription and renewal scenarios. With daily check-ins and hands-on support, the Discern team ensured they were fully aligned with VTS’s objectives and preferences..
Discovery
Data Integration
Custom Logic
Testing & Refinement
Ongoing Support
I have appreciated that the Discern team is constantly educating us on what best practices are and what other clients have done.
Carol Ying, VP of Sales Operations
The Results
Discern’s automated reporting platform delivered immediate results for VTS. What once required days of manual effort to ensure accuracy now takes only minutes during the monthly close process. The team at VTS has gained streamlined, consistent ARR reporting, free from the risks of human error. Moreover, with the platform’s ability to track late renewals and provide granular insights, VTS has better visibility into its revenue streams than ever before.
Not only did Discern’s platform simplify reporting, but it also provided VTS with confidence in presenting their numbers to investors, reducing the need for explaining discrepancies. The combination of automated reporting and enhanced data insights allows VTS to make informed, strategic decisions quickly, ultimately positioning the company for stronger growth and clearer communication with stakeholders.
Now we can report ARR in a standardized way and trust that everything is consistent, which we could never do with Excel.
Carol Ying, VP of Sales Operations
Key Outcomes
- Improved Efficiency: Reduced manual reporting from days to minutes.
- Data Consistency: Standardized rules for accurate historical comparisons.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Minimized human error through automated, granular insights.
- Increased Confidence: Reliable, automated reporting that satisfies both internal and investor needs.
About VTS
VTS is the commercial real estate industry’s only technology company that unifies owners, operators, brokers, and tenants in a single platform to capitalize on opportunities revealed in every square foot of their properties. In 2013, VTS revolutionized the commercial real estate industry’s leasing operations with what is now VTS Lease. Today, the VTS Platform is the largest first-party data source in the industry, transforming how strategic decisions are made and executed by CRE professionals across the globe.
