Adopting automation in a bookkeeping or accounting practice can be transformative; but only if done wisely. Drawing from hard-won experience, Claire Bartlett shared her essential lessons learned when implementing automation tools to streamline time management and improve efficiency in your practice.

1. Do Your Research

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The marketplace is crowded with software claiming to solve every pain point. It’s essential to thoroughly research each option, taking time to find the solution that fits your specific processes and workflows. Don’t let flashy demos or marketing promises guide your decision, let functionality and fit lead the way.

2. Take It Slow

Pacing is crucial. Don’t try to automate everything at once. Identify the one area that would bring the biggest time savings or impact and start there. Fully implement and optimize one solution before moving on to the next. A phased approach is far more sustainable than trying to overhaul your entire practice overnight.

3. Don’t Buy Until You’re Ready to Implement

It’s easy to be dazzled by new software, especially at expos and conferences, but avoid jumping in before you’re sure you have the time and resources to properly implement it. Paying for a tool you’re not ready to use just wastes money and adds stress.

4. Don’t Include It in Your Fees (Without Transparency)

Bundling automation tools into your service fees might seem client-friendly, but it can backfire. As vendors raise prices, you may be forced to absorb unexpected costs or go back to clients with awkward mid-year fee increases. Instead, itemize software costs clearly. Transparency gives you flexibility and makes price changes easier to communicate.

5. Build Relationships with Vendors

Strong partnerships with software vendors can be incredibly valuable. When issues arise (or when you want to ensure you’re using the tool to its full potential) having direct support contacts makes a big difference. Treat these vendors as part of your extended team.

6. Don’t Get Blinded by Cost. Focus on Value

Some high-impact tools come with steep price tags, which can be off-putting at first glance. But dig deeper. Ask: how much time will this actually save me? If automation frees up hours of manual work—giving you capacity to onboard more clients or focus on higher-value services—it could pay for itself many times over.

7. Don’t Overcommit

Introducing three tools at once may seem ambitious—but it often leads to chaos. Implement one solution at a time. Let it bed in, make it work, and only then move on to the next. Quality over quantity ensures lasting improvements.

8. Make It Profitable

Even if a service is fully automated, it still delivers value to the client—and that value should be priced accordingly. Don’t offer these services for free. Always ask: is this tool not only saving me time, but also contributing to my bottom line?

Successful automation isn’t just about plugging in the latest tech. It’s about thoughtful selection, measured implementation, clear communication with clients, and ensuring every step contributes to your practice’s profitability. Follow these lessons to avoid common pitfalls and make automation a true asset in your business.

For the full webinar, please click here. In this presentation Claire Bartlett covers the following topics:

• Why it is important to utilise tech automation in our processes to stay competitive
• How to improve the day-to-day function of your practice using basic tech tools
• How to upsell services and offerings with the help of tech apps
• How to ensure your app stack is generating you profit
• How to know which is the right tech stack for you

The contents of this article are meant as a guide only and are not a substitute for professional advice. The author/s accept no responsibility for any action taken, or refrained from, as a result of the material contained in this document. Specific advice should be obtained before acting or refraining from acting, in connection with the matters dealt with in this article. The information at the time of publishing was accurate and could be subject to final changes.