SaaS Metrics School

Are SaaS Metrics Really Dead?


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“SaaS metrics are dead.” You’ve probably seen that post on LinkedIn or X lately. In episode #325, Ben Murray cuts through the noise to explain why SaaS metrics aren’t broken — they’re just evolving to match modern recurring revenue business models.

Whether you’re running a SaaS, AI, software, or managed services company, the same financial principles apply. The key is understanding your revenue types — subscription, usage, consumption, or transaction — and applying the right metrics framework for each.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why SaaS metrics still work — and why the confusion exists.
  • The difference between SaaS as a delivery model and recurring revenue as a financial model.
  • Why the most important question isn’t “Are you SaaS?” but “What are your revenue types?”
  • How financial systems and P&L design should reflect these revenue categories for accurate unit economics and valuation.
  • Why It Matters

    • For Operators: The framework for recurring revenue metrics applies whether you sell software, data, or AI services.
    • For Finance Teams: You can’t manage what you don’t measure — ensure your financial modeling captures all recurring components.
    • For Investors: Strong recurring revenue visibility (ARR, NRR, margins) still drives valuation multiples — regardless of your label.
    • For Founders: Stop worrying about the buzz — focus on measuring what matters for your business model.
    • Key Takeaways

      • SaaS metrics = recurring revenue metrics.
      • Focus on revenue types, not just labels like “SaaS” or “AI.”
      • A clear chart of accounts and a well-designed financial system enable accurate SaaS metrics.
      • The fundamentals of finance, accounting, and valuation haven’t changed — only the packaging has.
      • Resources Mentioned

        🧾 The SaaS Metrics Foundation Course: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/the-saas-metrics-foundation

        Quote from Ben

        “SaaS metrics aren’t broken — they’ve just outgrown the acronym. These are recurring revenue metrics that apply to most modern business models.”

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        SaaS Metrics SchoolBy Ben Murray

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