HOW CAN YOU STOP THE PICK UP / PUT DOWN SYNDROME?
It’s been estimated by workflow specialists that the pick up and put down of work can add as much as 20% to job WIP. So, how can you stop the pick up / put down syndrome? Here are 5 tips that can help you improve turnaround time and reduce write-offs.- Prepare and send your client a checklist. The checklist should be based on the previous year’s work. Call in work a month in advance and review work received against the previous year’s checklist.
- Follow up clients for missing information proactively, preferably before the job commences. With most jobs, it shouldn’t take long to determine if anything significant is missing. Of course, you may identify additional information required as the job proceeds, but at least you have anticipated potential issues well in advance of the deadline for completion.
- Establish clear turnaround time targets for each type of job and monitor consistently. Most practice management software programs incorporate a workflow monitoring tool. Probably the only thing preventing its effective use is lack of commitment and training.
- Conduct regular workflow meetings to identify and deal with bottlenecks. Workflow meetings should utilise up to date reports showing the status of all jobs.
- Make sure your clients understand that the more often a job is put down and picked up again, the more time it takes and the more it costs. It is in your client’s benefit to provide information in a complete fashion, and it’s our responsibility to make Sure they understand what is required.
If you want to learn how to:
- Identify bottlenecks and what to do about them.
- Run effective workflow meetings.
- Reduce turnaround time.
- Create additional capacity in your firm,
Take a look at our practical CD-ROM training program 'TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR TIME.' focusing on proactive workflow and task management.
We already have many firms using the program, including Darren Gleeson from Success Tax Professionals, WA who comments ‘I’m very excited – this is exactly what we need and will be the best money I have spent.’
This program incorporates 10 stand-aline training modules and runs as a program for individuals or teams. It includes ALL of the tools and techniques we’ve seen work for accounting firms in becoming more proactive in managing workflow and day to day tasks.
The standard price for this program is $1,320 or $132 per module. However, until 31st May 2011, we are offering the program to firms at 25% off the standard price – just $990.
For more information on this program, CLICK HERE or contact us on 1300 883 789. All of our training programs are designed by accountants for accountants.
Developed by Business Aptitude, leading Practice Management Consultants and Trainers to Accountants. For further information, go to www.bizaptitude.com.au