Manual bookkeeping and cross-checking of accounts and records are time-consuming. The lack of productivity and wastage of resources can quickly burn a hole through your cash flows if you’re not vigilant. On the other hand, accounting automation takes out the manual elements of accountants’ work. It replaces it with faster, efficient, and accurate processes. If you’re still tilting between whether or not to automate, listed below are a few reasons that will help turn your doubts into a “Yes.”
Less time-consuming
Accounting software saves a lot of time by making the job a lot easier. Accountants have to enter data for customers, employees, vendors, and numerous business transactions. These tasks can be considerably laborious if done manually. However, companies can save many hours lost in data collection and cross-checking by deploying the latest tech and software. Consequently, financial reports can be generated with the click of a button as nothing would be left to reconcile. It will make business decision-making faster and more effective.
However, using accounting tools properly is the prime concern here. It requires proper training. Individuals who want to hone their skills can consider distance learning opportunities to increase their know-how and technical expertise quickly. The internet provides several such opportunities in the form of short courses or higher education degrees. Junior accountants with a bachelor’s degree can also complete an online master of accounting and quickly work their way up the professional ladder into senior positions.
Increases productivity
Since automation frees up employees’ time, they can focus on other crucial business aspects such as quality control, marketing, and decision-making. For instance, employees who were previously responsible for bookkeeping activities can now assist sales managers in preparing more accurate predictions for the future. This collaboration will allow for better production planning and marketing budget allocation. As a result, the overall productivity of teams and the company goes up, eventually increasing profitability.
Data accuracy
Humans are more prone to making errors. Even the most meticulous, thorough professionals can miss a zero while calculating a business expense. Such mistakes can be tank an entire business. Au contraire, automation removes these errors. Since data is collected directly from the source and in real-time, the chances of errors are minimal. However, the whole process still requires an accountant to manipulate and verify the data.
Accurate financial data allows for more precise decision-making. In addition, it helps in tax compliance, which is crucial if companies want to avoid scrutiny and penalties by the IRS.
Better cash flow management
Proper cash flow management is crucial for day-to-day operations and long-term sustainability. Automation enables accountants to track accounts payable and receivable and other business expenses with relative ease. This, combined with data accuracy, allows managers to gauge how liquid the company is at any point in time. With the correct software, accountants and sales staff can generate timely invoices to ensure timely payments and a positive cash flow.
Easy and quick access to data
Long gone are the days of physical storage rooms filled with hundreds of files. However, cloud computing makes storage and access straightforward. Employees can create, work on, and save documents directly on the cloud. The cloud and other software also have mobile apps for all smart devices. Therefore, you can access financial statements and invoices from your phone anywhere around the world, anytime.
Secure file storage
Storing physical records is not only expensive, but it is also unsafe, especially in the event of a natural disaster or office fire. However, accounting software allows you to maintain an online record of every document in a secure folder. This includes financial statements, invoices, and real-time entries in the company’s digital ledger. Moreover, with a secure network and data encryption, you can reduce data losses and theft caused by cyber-attacks. Not to mention, your information is also safe from damage caused by fires and floods.
Employee development
Accounting is a challenging profession, and employees are prone to burnout, especially during closing and auditing periods. Accounting software helps accountants perform mind-numbing tasks effortlessly and reduces stress. It also provides an opportunity for growth. Machines are a big help, yet they can’t work on their own. Therefore, accountants get a chance to enhance their skills by learning new tools that enhance their professional development.
Conclusion
The transition from laborious manual accounting processes to automation should be a natural step for every business. It comes with several benefits, including better time management and increased productivity at the workplace. Automation also helps in preparing accurate financial statements for better decision-making and tax compliance. Cloud computing enables businesses to keep crucial information safe from external threats and provides employees with easy access to documents 24/7. Professionals should consider opportunities to upskill their competencies and become familiar with the latest tools and software for the job.
