Following the key figure is important for several reasons:

1. Long-term follow-up: It provides a continuous and long-term overview of how the organization's performance develops throughout the current year. It is particularly useful for monitoring performance over time.

2. Trend identification: By analyzing accumulated output, the organization can identify financial trends and patterns. It provides insight into whether the outcome over- or underperforms compared to previous years or budget expectations.

3. Performance appraisal: It enables evaluation of the organization's performance in relation to its goals and expectations for the year. It gives decision makers a clear picture of how well the organization is achieving its financial goals.

4. Correction and adaptation: If cumulative outcome indicates that the organization is not on track to achieve its goals, it provides the opportunity to take timely action to correct and adapt the business strategy.

5. Budget follow-up: It is used to compare actual results with budget expectations. It helps identify where expenses and income are in line with the plan and where there are deviations.

6. Continuous planning: Cumulative outcome provides a basis for continuous financial planning. The organization can use this information to plan and adjust its operations for the rest of the year.

In summary, the KPI provides a broad and long-term picture of the organization's financial performance and profit development. It helps the organization to be proactive in its decisions and adjustments to achieve its financial goals for the year.