First, it is essential that whatever system you use integrates seamlessly with your full bookkeeping software.  There is little value in saving time on one hand, but then re-keying the same details later. The ease with which the invoicing data downloads into bookkeeping software such as QuickBooks is a good measure of its usefulness.

It is equally important that the system charges and tracks the appropriate taxes for all geographical areas in which you will be making sales.  Customers paying a value-added tax, such as GST /HST in Canada, will require tax information included on their invoices.

Another consideration is the ease with which you can make changes once the automated or recurring invoicing has been put in place.  The true nature of business includes change orders, skipped months, cancellations and refunds, and all of this must to be manageable with minimal additional time.

Working in connection with a customer payment system such as PayPal is another great time-saver.  Your customers will want to see their payment history with you and will need to be able to download or print their invoices at a click.  Keep your customers in mind and ensure the system is simple for them as well.

A good automated invoicing system is efficient, clearly tracks revenue, taxes and payments, provides the data your customers need, and flows into your full bookkeeping system with ease.

PLAN – Good planning is important whether you have been in business for awhile or are just starting out.  I will assist you to develop a budget of projected revenue and expenses, and to create a cash flow projection – the most powerful tool for any small business owner.  Additionally we will outline your most important target ratios and key performance indicators.

EXECUTE – You run the operation of your business and I will support you in the ways you choose and find most useful, such as handling payroll, doing invoicing, managing receivables, payables, and government returns and remittances.   Record keeping and reconciliations are kept current while checklists make it simple for you to deal with the paperwork and your time is kept free for running your business.

MEASURE – I consistently give you customized reports that let you be laser-focused on what you need to know most.  Based on fully reconciled, correctly done accounts, the communication from me is what makes your success system truly powerful.

RESPOND – Nothing is more powerful for you than the knowledge you now have.  Going forward you continue to make effective decisions and steer your business toward the results you have planned for.

You know….   What you need to know….   When you need to know it.