Bringing your staff on the journey
It’s important to involve all stakeholders in the decision-making process. This makes finance staff feel included and bought-in from the beginning of the process. It can also help identify challenges or requirements that you are unaware of, which will be beneficial when evaluating providers.
Shout about the benefits of the new solution. This will encourage staff to have a positive attitude towards change, and will be felt throughout the business. Set up sessions that allow users to see or use the system before purchasing so that they are clear on how it really works.
You may receive questions once employees are informed of the coming change. Be prepared to answer them and have a process to manage any push-back you might get.
Equip your team with helpful resources
Your new solution is only as successful as the people using it. You want to ensure your team have all the key information they need to operate the system efficiently. Arranging demos and training calls will help staff learn each area of the solution and allow them to ask questions.
Check if your provider offers online resources such as a knowledge base or a customer forum. This will provide users with self-help guides on using specific elements without waiting for a response to support tickets.
Provide your team with direct support contact information. If they need to ask a question, having these details readily available will make adoption much smoother.
Create a clear road map
Developing an implementation plan will give stakeholders key dates they must prepare for. By offering a clear road map, you will help manage expectations and address any concerns before implementation.
In your road map, outline the tasks that need to be completed and assign these to staff to encourage ownership. This will reduce the amount of work for yourself and give input from essential team members.
If you have the resources, assign a point of contact for the implementation process. This would be someone who would oversee the project from start to finish. It helps keep staff accountable and makes communication easier.
Key Takeaways
Selecting the right AP provider that works seamlessly with your Xero software can be straightforward if you follow and stick to a process. Key points to consider
- Create an environment that is open to coming change and encourage staff to ask questions
- Instill a positive mindset to change be reiterating the benefits
- Identify and communicate goals and timelines clearly to manage expectations
See how it works
Speak to one of our AP xperts about upgrading your to a more powerful solution that integrates seamlessly with your Xero software.
