Creating Expectations, Streamlined Processes in Accounts Payable

The idea of going digital has enhanced various business processes, as when a company grows, workers discover different solutions and strategies to tackle new obstacles. This includes those in the accounts payable department. For instance, invoice automation has been a huge step forward, as it has made bookkeeping processes less time-consuming.

Here are some ways an enterprise can smooth out accounts payable procedures on top of invoice automation:

1. Recommendations and feedback

The Accounts Payable Network recommended that supervisors really listen to staff about their expectations for the department. Anonymous surveys allow them to suggest changes without fear and benefit the business with honest recommendations.

“I got a lot of feedback and AP staff really appreciated having a voice instead of someone coming in and telling them how things were going to work.” Joni Guerts, a finance and accounts payable manager for JetBlue, told the source.

2. Automation and efficiency

Invoice automation boosts productivity and eliminates weaknesses within the department. Inc. suggested supervisors look for bad trends that occur regularly, such as employees focusing too much on certain aspects or late paperwork.

Automation can cure most of these woes by creating a productive routine for staff. It makes getting money back simple, and assists in avoiding late payments by having electronic receipts instantly on record. Paper invoices can go missing, but invoice automation keeps digital documents backed up and secure.

3. Basic expectations 

Inc. reviewed some factors that the department should already have in the routine. Organization is key with any invoice archiving, and incoming bills should be indexed with due dates and arrival times. Having a window of time for when invoices should be sent out can be a solid expectation that may benefit both staff and employees with timeliness.

Workers should know how to use the system and what the supervisor expects from them. Invoice automation is most effective when the company as a whole is on the same page about why it’s utilizing the technology in the first place.

Automation and digital documentation has created a wonderful modern system for accounts payable. Employees know how to better approach invoices and clients, and supervisors can be content depending on them. The business just has to be sure to be meticulous and strict with expectations so all can benefit from the streamlined processes.