Yes, I agree - the take away is that the document has value, hopefully tremendous value in understanding where they stand. Most CEOs not being technical need someone they can trust to provide a true assessment and give them an ‘unbiased’ report on the state of their business. Especially the fast growth startups where everything seems to be falling apart and they just can’t seem to get a real solution. Often times I’ll report the staff is shorthanded for what’s necessary to maintain a business at their pace… I try to do my best to stay on the good side of the existing teams and not crap on them directly. Being in tech for over 25 years and getting shit on by outside parties is too common from people trying to make a quick buck. I like to think I bring an ethical approach to doing what’s best for the business.

Also - getting access to their actual order system helps me fully understand the risk / opportunity of the situation.