How cloud computing is helping accountants adapt to the ‘new normal’

Aenta

Accountants are adapting well to the ‘new normal’ and finding innovative ways to keep their clients informed and happy, according to a recent industry survey.

How cloud computing is helping accountants adapt ‘brilliantly’ to the ‘new normal’, with our clients happier than ever

 

Practice management software firm Senta recently surveyed its client base. They found a tribe of happy professionals, who have seen their teams adapt to using new technology in changing circumstances to exceed client expectations.

James Kilford, CEO of Senta commented:

“We knew we had a group of forward-thinking clients, and this survey proved that they’ve all adapted brilliantly to serving clients who are going through challenging times.

Our survey tells us that 80% surveyed had a happy or fairly happy team. And a staggering 97.5% told us that their client relationships were booming.”

Penny Rowden of Rowdens, a firm of accountants based in Chichester, says that her team has found robust systems essential to meet client expectations.

“All our staff have been working at home. It’s important we make sure they have instant access to the information they need. With clear workflows in place, everyone knows exactly where they are and what they’re doing.”

The survey also sheds light on the more popular apps that accountants are using. Namely the likes of Calendly, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Slack. However, it’s not just technology that is helping keep the team working well together.

James Kilford continues:

“Our accountancy practices are taking a very human approach with regular group chats, virtual coffee breaks and even reintroducing the concept of ‘elevenses’ to keep everyone’s spirits up.”

The survey also identified the challenges accountants are facing as a direct result of COVID-19 restrictions for themselves and their clients.  These range from having to manage childcare as well as work, to not being able to get hold of clients or continue with team learning.

Accountants still have a lot of demands from their clients who are facing real difficulties. Keeping on top of government guidelines which continue to change on an almost daily basis.

However, the survey demonstrates that the clients who go the extra mile to retain grateful clients. 45% of respondents said their client relationships were as good as before lockdown and a further 52% said they were stronger than ever.

Guy Baragwanath of CGB Associates, a family-run firm in North Yorkshire reflects on the way they have been able to support clients during this period. “It has been a challenging time – but rewarding time – to be able to help our clients as much as possible. Even if it has meant long hours at times!’

James Kilford of Senta concludes:

“What all these successful practices have in common is a cloud-based approach to practice management. Since lockdown began, we’ve seen our clients ramp up the configuration of Senta to suit the particular needs of their firm.

A truly configurable system is a real game-changer. It means continuity between office life and working from home that has benefited accountants, and their clients. ”