During 2020, accounting firms had to figure out how to shift their business models to work remotely. And, now, hopefully, they’re preparing to shift back to some semblance of a new normal which might mean staying remote full time or switching to a hybrid model. In the new whitepaper “Use Reliable Technology Partners to Be Lean and Mean,” The Radical CPA Jody L. Padar, CPA, MST, offers some radical and reliable advice on how to smartly take advantage of tech during these transitions.

First Things First: The Cloud

She points out that those firms that were already cloud-based when the pandemic hit were a step ahead of everyone else. For them, switching to remote working was relatively seamless and definitely secure. An additional leg up came to those firms using workflow tools, like CCH Axcess™ Workstream, which were able to transparently track their workflow even when they weren’t face-to-face.

So what happens now? It’s likely many of us will continue to make adjustments for a while. So why not get geared up and ensure you’re taking the best advantage of technology. If your firm hasn’t already moved to the cloud, what are you waiting for? Choosing a cloud-based platform makes your firm more flexible and more secure.

Prepare to Automate

Ready to say so-long to mundane tasks and free up time for your firm to offer higher-level services without adding staff? In addition to leveraging AI and machine learning to help automate your digital tax workflow with tools like CCH® ProSystem fx® Scan and AutoFlow and CCH Axcess™ Financial Prep, Padar also recommends looking into a third-party RPA (robotic process automation) product like Botkeeper to quickly perform repetitive—but essential—bookkeeping and accounting tasks.

Outsource Overflow

Still feeling overwhelmed? No worries. CCH® ProSystem fx® Outsource can provide extra support with individual tax return assistance purchased at a fixed price based on the number of pages involved. They perform the tedious data entry tasks and all you have to do is review. Outsourcing will help you keep work moving and expand your bandwidth at peak times without making permanent hires.

Rethink Your Services

So what are firms doing with all that saved time? Well, if you haven’t already noticed a shift from compliance to consultative services, you probably will soon. Clients are looking for tax planning and business consulting services. And that’s good news because those higher-level services mean higher revenue. Sure, it can be scary to make the shift, but Padar says firms have to “be ready to be radical.” If you smartly expand your offerings, she says, “Your clients will be happy, I promise, and they will refer you to other businesses.”

If you’re ready for more great ideas from The Radical CPA Jody L. Padar, CPA, MST, download the “Use Reliable Technology Partners to Be Lean and Mean” whitepaper today.