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Modern businesses rely on fast access to centralised information.
This has given rise to workflow automation, which refers to the process of digitising manual processes so that information can be compiled centrally within an organisation.
Workflow automation can be as simple as implementing an electronic filing system or as far-reaching as streamlining an entire department.
The types of processes that benefit from workflow automation
There are many processes and departments within businesses that can be automated:
- invoice administration, such as scanning, matching and paying;
- job applications and resignation paperwork replaced by e-forms;
- the mailroom, by sorting and distributing all physical and electronic documents that you receive;
- contract renewals, so that you never miss an important support renewal again; and
- archiving and retention, by enabling you to automatically delete confidential data after set periods of time.
How your business will benefit
We believe there are eight key benefits businesses will enjoy as a result of using workflow automation:
- Greater visibility and control
Five percent of paper documents are lost or misfiled, but is that due to carelessness or a lack of visibility and control?
It’s fair to suggest the latter is a big culprit, and with workflow automation, keeping tabs on your documents becomes far easier.
- More efficient processes
Manual storage of documents is time consuming and usually results in processes that are far from efficient.
Workflow automation does away with the need to hunt for documents by simplifying every process that relies on them.
- A proactive approach
It should come as no surprise that 90% of filed documents are never referred to again, but that results in a reactive approach to the information they contain.
When you can easily access stored information, you’re more likely to do so proactively than when pushed to do so. That’s better for customers, colleagues and the business itself.
- Less of a reliance on paper (and people)
Did you know that workers spend up to 40% of their time trying to find information they need to complete everyday tasks?
Paper still has its place in business, but rely on it too heavily, and you can wave goodbye to invaluable employee time.
The same goes for people; we’re all prone to errors, but workflow automation removes the reliance we place on ourselves and paper documents.
- A system that grows with your business
You want your business to grow, right? Then, why are your paper processes holding you back?
Workflow automation will help you create a system that grows with your business - rather than than one that stunts its growth.
- The ability to share immediately
To be successful in the digital economy, you need to be able to share information quickly with anyone in or outside your business.
With workflow automation, you can do that - securely.
- No worries over compliance
One of the greatest benefits of workflow automation is its ability to ensure you comply with the latest government legislation and compliance targets.
- Disaster proofing
If something goes wrong and your workflows are dominated by manual processes, it may take an inordinate amount of time to recover - if you haven’t lost any vital data in the process.
With digitised processes and centralised document storage, you’ll be in a far better place to pick up the pieces and continue should the worst happen.
By managing the lifecycle of documents in your business with workflow automation, your staff will gain greater control and visibility of vital information.
This is one of the best ways to increase security and efficiency. Is your business missing out?
