This is a series of timesaving tips by Firm of the Future authors. More tips are on their way; for now, check out another published tip here.
I love, and try, to live by the expression, “Start with the end in mind.” For ongoing projects as varied as quarterly estimates, tax minimization planning, monthly client accounting, or annual tax returns, creating a process, sticking to it, and tweaking it, as needed, keeps my staff, and myself, on track. We know that exceptions, special requests, and one-off projects are never efficient, and tend to add unnecessary stress.
Our standard process will always include ongoing staff and client education, project tracking via practice management software, varied technology solutions, and communication. When new projects come up, such as client support or stimulus funding under the Cares Act or disaster relief, we can quickly adapt by utilizing existing proven office processes to enable us to identify affected/eligible clients. Then, we monitor and complete these special projects properly and efficiently with a minimum of overtime required.
