The Practitioner: Tidy desks could lead to tidy processes
As The Practitioner thinks about implementing new systems to tidy up client workflow and acquisition; tidying up the office seems to be part of the process
MY PRACTICE seem to be growing at a rapid rate of knots recently, and it’s not without its issues. At the heart of the issues is both people and systems.
We have recently recruited and although the systems are in place to cope with expansion they still require people to use them correctly.
The firm invests heavily in the correct software to make sure we are using the correct standards etc for accounts preparation, and they produce numerous checklists and tick-lists. These are all very well and good when they are filled in properly and followed up, but recently I’m starting to feel as though we are paying them lip service without actually using them to our advantage.
With time being at a premium to implement the system to its maximum potential, and with the office starting to look busier and busier, it’s time for a spring clean I feel.
I’m hoping that once the office is tidier generally it may well inspire some new ideas to help us implement the correct systems.
Don’t get me wrong, we are 95% there, and probably do more than most firms. It’s just the extra 5% that I’m hoping to get right.
With new people coming on board it’s the perfect time to refresh how we do things.
Tidying up online
I’m also looking at some new online software to help with the new client signing-up process.
It would be ideal if we could find a system to guide us through the process of engaging a new client; we are getting so many recently that we are in danger of a few slipping through the net. Most new clients we win are word-of-mouth referrals from existing clients or contacts, so the least we can do is make the moving-over process as painless and smooth as possible.
It all comes down to systems and people. The right systems need to be in place and the right people need to be in place to follow them through.
Once we’ve had a spring clean maybe a good old fashioned paper checklist and filing tray system might do the trick.
Resources & Whitepapers
Accounting Software The power of customisation in accounting systems
The Practitioner’s uncensored thoughts come from within their own practice, having left a regional firm in the heart of England
Further reading:
The Practitioner: Should we stay or should we go?
The Practitioner: Accounting talent pool is running dry
