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n 2015, we introduced an internet based accounts pay-
able system across all of our properties and associations.
The technology, the transparency, the efficiency, and
the cost savings all made it a no brainer. Now our man-
agers and board members can view and approve invoices
online, see actual invoice images, and communicate inter-
nally while permanently documenting comments, changes
and approval flow. Payments can be made more quickly
and accurately with little or no paper processing, minimiz-
ing human error, paper files, and with all of the benefits
of a “paperless” system. Since invoices can easily and
quickly be approved by board members, up front signa-
ture cards are provided and payments can be issued by
the third party payer. There’s no need to circulate paper
checks for various signatures. You now have a secure, eas-
ily usable solution for anyone with an internet connection.
Sounds great, right?
While we adjusted to the new system, we needed to
redefine our tasks including internal staff, property managers,
EMBRACING NEW TECHNOLOGY
The Importance of Communication and Education
When Introducing New Technology to Your
Enterprise and Your Associations.
By Dan Fusco, CMCA, Associa -
Community Management Corp.
with contributions from Anthony Bifano
board members and finance committees. We all get com-
fortable in our ways. Any disruption to our normal routine
triggers pushback, even if the ultimate result is to our benefit.
So, an obvious time saver, cost saver, paper saver, and audit
tool could be derailed if
managers, and especial-
ly association boards,
don’t buy in.
What’s the secret?
Same as always - clear
communication, careful
planning, purposeful
education and respon-
sive follow ups.
For any management company or association consider-
ing or already undertaking a similar migration, below are
some suggestions. They worked for us, and they continue
to be valuable as we move farther along since the start of
the transition.
CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 48
"Make use of the support
and transition staff of
the software provider.
Question, question,
question."