The Power of Insight: System Audit Importance

Your business is constantly growing and changing. It’s important to make sure that your systems and processes are documenting (and keeping up with) the changes. One way to do this is by utilizing a systems audit.

Now, I get it, the word “audit” sounds like unnecessary strain and conflicting emotions as you have enough on your plate, but don’t let those thoughts deter you. All a system audit is is a systems analysis - we partner together and analyze three of your core current business systems.

In this blog post, I’ll highlight why a system audit is important, the benefits it has for your unique business, and how to tell if your business needs one.

Why are System Audits important?

So, why are system audits important?

Ultimately, the aim is to identify the following in your systems - what’s working, what isn’t, spotlight any time and energy-sucks, as well as areas that need your attention.

Here are several additional reasons why it's important to conduct a systems audit:

• Identify any gaps in your systems or process/es

• Identify automation opportunities

• Identify potential system risks and vulnerabilities

• Improve the accuracy and reliability of your reporting

• Increase operational efficiency and reduce costs

• Tool suggestions based on your current business process needs

• Clarity on how to continue to improve and build your systems

Benefits of a System Audit

If you haven’t had the opportunity to execute a system audit yet, there are numerous benefits to planning one soon.

Two of the main benefits are cost saving and increased productivity. By identifying inefficiencies, you ultimately save money and streamline your processes, which leads to increased productivity.

Your clients will also experience a better quality of customer service by improved processes. This in turn leads to increased customer loyalty as they are assured that you have their best interests at heart.

Last (but not least) are the additional benefits of improved quality control, enhanced reputation and brand image. By identifying areas for improvement, you can improve the quality of your products/services.

Conducting a systems audit demonstrates that you're committed to quality and continuous improvement in your business.

How to tell if your business needs a System Audit

So, how do you know if your business needs a systems audit? There are a few signs you should look out for. If you can identify with more than one of the below points, it’s a good idea to get started on that audit.

Signs to look out for:

• Recent changes to your business or industry

  • For example, mergers, acquisitions, or changes in regulations

• Significant growth or expansion

  • If your business has grown, it's vital to make sure your systems and processes are up to date

• Introduction of new technology

• Unexplained losses or discrepancies

  • For example, contractors hours submitted are not linked to significant task relief, bookkeeping discrepancies, etc.

• A high employee or contractor turnover

  • It’s a great idea to dive into why the turnover is high, should there be more processes? Less processes? Streamlined areas?

System audits are crucial for ensuring that your business is operating efficiently and effectively. It’s never too late to get started and see the benefits of cost saving, increased productivity, improved quality and customer service.

If you’d like to learn more about the System Audits I offer to my clients, click here to learn more.

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