Technology can be transformative – improving leverage, consistency, efficiency, risk management, induction and training, scalability, and saleability. What software have you adopted to increase efficiency?
The past few years have forced us to rethink the way we operate our business. The barrier of procrastination has been removed and we’ve had to adopt new technology and automate our processes.
Technology exists to increase efficiency, but it can be a double-edged sword. When you apply automation to an efficient operation, it will magnify the efficiency. However, automating an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency.
In other words, we must first ensure our systems and processes are efficient before introducing automation.
Start by reviewing all your existing technology, processes, and systems to determine any that are obsolete. For example, texting for business is now the norm; instead of calling customers to remind them of an appointment, first, send an automated text message asking them to reply ‘yes’ to confirm attendance. This will reduce time spent on follow-ups and no-shows.
There are many benefits of improved systemisation and technology adoption:
1 – Leverage. Getting more done with less effort (e.g., automated monthly management reporting systems).
2 – Consistency. Guaranteeing output quality (e.g., a templated proposal or pricing tool).
3 – Efficiency. Automating manual tasks using technology (e.g., auto-coding of transactions using Xero).
4 – Risk Management. Removing the risk of human error (e.g., an automated bank reconciliation).
5 – Scalability. Systemising processes to enable growth without increasing your workload (e.g., a point-of-sale cashbook system).
6 – Saleability. Increasing the value of your business by automating as much as possible.
7 – Induction and Training. Minimising hands-on training by having robust systems for new team members to follow.
The cost (and disruption) of any new technology or automation must be clearly outweighed by the benefit or time saving. Don’t adopt shiny new technology for no proper reason.
In order to achieve these benefits and avoid systems or processes which serve no useful purpose, it’s important to complete a full technology review.
Agilis Books can help you review your current ‘app stack’ and identify areas where you can utilise automation and apps to increase efficiency.
Contact Agilis Books today so we can help assist in finding the best solution for your needs from one of the leading software solutions.
This blog was originally published by The Gap.