Workflow software is a great way to improve the efficiency of your accounting department. It can help automate tasks and ensure that everyone in the department is on the same page. In this blog post, we will discuss how to implement workflow software in your accounting department.
We will cover the basics of what you need to know before getting started, as well as some tips for making the transition as smooth as possible.
When it comes to workflow software, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to make sure that the software you choose is compatible with your accounting system. Second, you need to decide which tasks you want to automate. And third, you need to train your employees on how to use the software.
Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to implement workflow software in your accounting department.
Which Tasks Do You Need Automated?
The first step is deciding which tasks you want to automate. This will likely be different for every organization, but some common examples include invoice processing and payments, expense reports, and time tracking.
Find those processes that require extensive coordination and human touchpoints. Often the most inefficient processes are those requiring routing to various departments for approvals. It’s important to be able to analyze your accounting department’s needs before making a decision.
This is normally the step that takes time and intensive analysis. Don’t be afraid to really dig into the processes of your department and see where you can benefit from automation. It will only help you in the long run.
Which Software Will Be Compatible with Your Accounting Department?
Once you’ve decided which tasks to automate, the next step is to find workflow software that is compatible with your accounting system. There are a variety of options out there, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that best fits your needs.
Strong workflow platforms have the ability to integrate with a variety of APIs. Depending on your account system, it may be possible to build out integrations that leverage certain pivotal data points. If you have questions about which software will be compatible with your department, reach out to ExpressAbility and we will be happy to help.
Compare Your Options
Once you’ve found a few workflow software options, it’s time to compare them. Make sure to look at things like price, ease of use, and customer support. Leveraging a new workflow platform is a big step. You will want to work with a capable firm to evaluate your needs and help you determine the best path forward. Working with an independent firm allows you to have an unbiased viewpoint when determining which platform has the best overall fit.
ExpressAbility is available to assist in this area and also can develop a proof of concept (POC) to demonstrate the construction of a solution that is specific to your use case. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to take the plunge and purchase the software.
Implementation
The implementation cycle of a workflow platform varies depending on the product, but it usually requires extensive planning and consideration. The initial configuration is vital and choices like how users will access the system, the method they will use to authenticate, how the system will look and feel, creation of accounts to be used by the system–for sending emails as an example, and other technical details will need to be put into action. You want to build the foundation necessary to be successful with the solutions that you will build out on the platform.
Train Your Employees
Once you have the workflow software installed, it’s important to train your employees on how to use it. This will ensure that they are able to get the most out of the software and that they know how to use all of its features.
Workflow platforms vary greatly in complexity. You will find that the most capable products, the ones that are most versatile, are also the more complex ones to learn. In other words, an extremely easy-to-use product usually means that your options are extremely limited when you are building out your solutions.
While low-code and no-code systems do not require coders, they do typically require individuals who are technical to some degree. The process of building an application involves a fundamental way of thinking that includes variables, logic, and the use of databases. It is true that today’s modern workflow platforms bridge the gap between technical skill and business acumen.
This means that more business savvy individuals with technical understanding are now enabled to build solutions–and they tend to build them faster and more efficiently and with better results than ever before. ExpressAbility provides you the ability to instantly expand your staff with workflow platform experts so that you can begin developing on your new platform from day one. Imagine what an instant team of specialists could do for your projects.
Build and Release Your Automation!
Refining your existing processes can mean big change for your accounting department. You will need to coordinate with end-users and train stake-holders. Even if your new automation is easy to use and brings huge boosts in productivity, you will likely find that you still need to “sell” it to those involved–touting the benefits and getting the whole team onboard is the only way to make a big change of this type.
Workflow software can help your department run more efficiently and effectively, so it’s worth taking the time to invest in the workflow revolution that is happening currently in the marketplace. Don’t get left behind in the wave of automation that is changing the way we work..
If you have any further questions regarding how to implement workflow software in your company, reach out to ExpressAbility.
