For technology companies, “efficiency” isn’t just another buzzword. It’s a strategic imperative, and the pursuit of efficiency has emerged as a critical factor in driving sustainable growth. Our “Year of Efficiency” podcast series recently featured four key areas in which technology company CEOs and CFOs should focus on in the continual quest for improved business processes and substantial growth.

We know cost management is top of mind, as is resource allocation, system and data security, employee productivity, and the pressure to innovate. In this article, we dive a little further into each episode topic, addressing some of the top concerns many in technology company leadership have regarding operational efficiency. By uncovering these growth strategies, we can help ease these concerns while propelling a technology business to new heights.

1. Optimizing Internal Processes: The Foundation for Efficiency and Growth

Middle-market companies face many challenges in managing their accounting and finance functions, especially when it comes to the adoption of new technology and the scarcity of qualified personnel. One crucial step to take in addressing these challenges is to first gain an understanding of the current state of a company’s accounting and finance operations, including its people, processes, and tools, before embarking on any transformation initiatives. There’s also a need for a collaborative approach—involving staff at all levels—to identify areas for improvement and prioritize them based on the company’s strategic goals. Taking a step back to look at the overall state of being will help companies gain insights into accounting challenges and potential solutions as they work toward accounting optimization and efficiency.

As improved internal processes are implemented along with the proper technology tools for the maturity of the business cycle, more accurate and timely financial reporting will result. This is especially important for companies that are looking to go public or attract new investors.

Listen to the first podcast in the series to learn more about how improving the accounting and finance back office ensures the scalability of operations for both large-cap and middle-market tech companies.

2. Leveraging Automation to Do More with Less

For technology companies on a digital transformation journey, the aim is clear: save costs, make informed decisions, and enhance the overall customer experience. One way to do this is to employ the transformative power of automation tools such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Salesforce, and MuleSoft RPA. These tools not only significantly reduce manual processes, but they help to optimize business operations through improved accuracy and enhanced scalability, all the while improving customer satisfaction.

Listen to this podcast to unlock ideas for automation solutions that could improve business efficiency.

3. Empowering Employees for Enhanced Efficiency

Moving beyond technology-focused efficiencies, technology business leaders should consider the vital aspect of employee empowerment. While technology products and software create efficiencies within an organization, saving time and money, tech companies can reap the benefits of even greater business efficiency when their employees feel motivated and inspired.

Breaking down organizational silos and fostering a collaborative culture can considerably enhance an employee’s sense of empowerment to solve problems and contribute to the greater good of the company’s growth goals.

Listen to this podcast, which brings a human touch to the efficiency narrative.

4. Driving Growth Through Innovation and Resource Allocation

As technology companies implement solutions that save on cost and streamline processes, financial and employee resources are freed up to allow for more experimentation and creativity. Consider how companies like Google, Toyota, IBM, Amazon, and Meta have leveraged restructuring and efficient resource allocation to drive focused innovation. The leaders of these companies recognize the value of enhanced collaboration and a culture of continuous improvement, as well as the importance of minimum viable products in driving innovation.

Listen to this podcast to learn how small and mid-sized organizations can apply the principles of efficiency-driven innovation used by tech giants.

A Roadmap for Growth in the Year of Efficiency

The Year of Efficiency will continue well into 2024, a transformative period for technology companies where strategic efficiency is the linchpin for growth. By optimizing internal processes, leveraging automation, empowering employees, and driving innovation through resource allocation, technology leaders and entrepreneurs can chart a course toward sustainable and impactful growth. For technology leaders, embracing these strategies becomes not just a choice but a necessity for navigating the path to success in the ever-evolving technology landscape.

Accounting for Technology Companies

Considering the questions below, let us know which area or areas of your business we can explore together to help make your technology company’s operations more efficient. Contact us to be your guide forward.

Does your team have an overall understanding of what process optimization looks like?

Let our advisors work with you to create a prioritized solution roadmap for your company. Our tailored, facilitated workshop helps you create quick wins for your accounting function that align with your company’s finance and overall business strategies.

Is your team operating as efficiently as you would like?

Let us help you explore areas of your business that can lead to greater motivation, inspiration and empowerment for your employees. We’re pleased to offer a Health of the Business Check-Up Report at a discounted rate of $500 to get you started. We’ll examine where you are, where you want to be, and how to get there by transforming the accounting function.

Could your technology company benefit from increased efficiency while improving accuracy and scalability?

Our team offers a free design workshop to assess solutions for your business. We work with you to identify gaps in your current processes and offer solutions to help automate tasks.

Are your company’s controls optimized for efficiency?

Inefficient systems are a barrier to growth. If you question whether the proper controls are in place for your technology company to conduct business efficiently, contact our team for a complimentary maturity model assessment. Our digital transformation team can provide an initial assessment of your company’s efficiencies and discuss the steps to take it to the next level.

Michael Valerio

Technology & Life Sciences Industry Leader

Partner, Cherry Bekaert LLP
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

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Michael Valerio

Technology & Life Sciences Industry Leader

Partner, Cherry Bekaert LLP
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC