Finance Decoder Tutorial (Videos) And Instructions (PDF)

This step-by-step video series is designed to help you confidently navigate the Finance Decoder. Each tutorial breaks the process down into clear, approachable steps—showing you how to enter your community’s information, interpret the results, and apply what you learn to spark stronger local conversations about financial health.

Check out the Written Instructions Here 

Tutorial Video Series

The series features Michel Durand-Wood, author of You'll Pay for This and the voice of the Dear Winnipeg blog. 

Michel is one of the key architects of the Finance Decoder tool and brings his deep knowledge and practical insight into how local governments manage money. 

While Michel helped shape the Decoder itself, it’s important to note that the underlying ratios and comparative methodologies come from the Canadian Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB). Together, these frameworks allow you to see your local government’s financial picture in a way that’s both accessible and actionable. 

Whether you’re brand new to the Decoder or looking for additional coaching, these videos will equip you with the clarity and confidence to use the tool well—and to better understand what’s happening in your community. For more information, additional resources, and the Finance Decoder worksheet itself, visit strongtowns.org/decoder. 

You’ll also find this handy guide: Step By Step Guide, plus instructions on how to share your results—or even turn them into a Canva template to use in your own community. 

This entire project is made possible by Strong Towns members. If you value resources like the Finance Decoder and want to see this movement grow, consider joining today: strongtowns.org/membership