Unlocking Value Through Order To Cash Automation: A Step-By-Step Guide For C-Suite Executives
OTC AUTOMATION TOOL
Modern technology has enabled businesses to automate various processes, including the tedious order to cash (OTC) cycle. Automating this process can optimize and streamline data, eliminating any errors that previously existed. Automation can significantly reduce costs, time, and effort involved in the OTC process.
As the C-Suite executive of the finance department, you understand the importance of streamlining the OTC process in order to unlock maximum value and wealth. However, introducing solution to automate the process can seem intimidating to implement at first. To make the transition easier, here is step-by-step guide on how to get started with automation for the OTC process.
Step 1: Assess Your Current Order to Cash Landscape
The first step to automation is understanding what is needed and how the current process works in your organization. This landscape analysis should include the companies current Sales Orders, Invoices, Credit Control, Cash Allocation, Bank Reconciliation, and Analytics. Analyzing the existing workflow helps identify any potential bottlenecks, areas for improvement, and opportunities for automation.
Step 2: Prepare Your Company for Automation
To get the most out of your new automation system, it is essential to have proper, up-to-date data for all current and future sales, profit performance, and customer base.
In addition, having standardized workflow and suitable infrastructure to handle the future influx of data is key. Updated roles and responsibilities should also be established to ensure that everyone is operating with the same expectations and tasks.
Step 3: Choose the Right Automation Solution
When evaluating potential automation solutions, be sure to vet and prioritize them based on the specific needs of your organization. Common items to consider include scalability, user experience, cost, security level, and integrations. It is also important to have clear understanding of the vendor’s service-level agreement, support, and training programs.
Step 4: Initial Setup and Testing
After selecting an automation solution, the next step is to configure and customize it for your organization. This includes setting up integration points, mapping financial data, and defining workflow rules. It also includes testing to ensure that the solution works as expected and meets all your requirements.
Step 5: Inform Employees of the Changes
Once you have implemented the automation solution, it is important to inform all relevant stakeholders, including employees, customers, and vendors. Adequate training should be provided to ensure smooth transition.
Step 6: Measure and Monitor Progress
Consider setting up performance indicators and KPIs to measure the success of your automation solution. This will help you identify any issues and discover areas where improvement is needed. It is also important to continually monitor the solution?s performance to ensure that it is achieving the desired outcomes and continuing to provide ROI.
By adopting an automation solution, you can optimize the OTC process, unlocking value and freeing up the time of your employees. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will have the knowledge and foundation necessary to start automating the OTC process and achieving the desired outcomes.
