Accounts Payable

Streamlining Accounts Payable with Automated AP Workflow Solutions

Learn how automated AP workflow solutions can revolutionize the accounts payable process by reducing costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing accuracy.


Accounts payable departments are an essential part of any organization, ensuring that suppliers and vendors are paid accurately and on time. However, the traditional paper-based invoice processing method is prone to errors, delays, and high costs, making it inefficient and time-consuming. Fortunately, advancements in technology have led to the development of automated AP workflow solutions that can streamline the accounts payable process and eliminate the need for manual intervention.

AP automation software is a type of technology that simplifies the accounts payable workflow by automating invoice data entry and processing, reducing the need for manual data entry and human intervention. The software can capture data from paper invoices and convert it into electronic formats, which can be easily processed by accounting systems and ERP systems. Additionally, automated accounts payable solutions can match purchase orders with invoices, flagging any discrepancies, and creating an audit trail for future reference.

The benefits of AP automation are numerous, including improved accuracy, reduced costs, increased efficiency, and enhanced visibility into the invoicing process. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of AP automation and how it can transform the accounts payable process.

Reduced Costs

One of the primary benefits of AP automation is the reduction in costs associated with the invoicing process. According to a study by Ardent Partners, the average cost of processing a paper invoice is $15. Meanwhile, the cost of processing an electronic invoice is just $2.36.

Cost-Per-Invoice

By automating the accounts payable process, organizations can significantly reduce the costs associated with processing paper invoices, including printing, postage, and storage costs.

Furthermore, automated AP solutions can help organizations take advantage of early payment discounts, which can save organizations money in the long run. Early payment discounts are incentives offered by suppliers for paying invoices early. By automating the accounts payable process, organizations can process invoices faster, making it easier to take advantage of early payment discounts.

Ascend customers who have implemented AP automation have experienced significant financial benefits. In fact, in the first year of implementing the technology, some customers have captured more than $500,000 in savings. This is because AP automation streamlines the accounts payable process, reducing the need for manual intervention and the associated costs. 

Improved Efficiency

AP automation can significantly improve the efficiency of the accounts payable process. By automating data entry and invoice processing, organizations can reduce the amount of time and resources required to manually process invoices. Automated solutions can match purchase orders with invoices, flagging any discrepancies, and creating an audit trail for future reference. Additionally, automated AP solutions can integrate with accounting systems and ERP systems, reducing the need for manual data entry.

By improving the efficiency of the accounts payable process, organizations can reduce the time it takes to process invoices, freeing up resources to focus on more critical tasks. Additionally, improved efficiency can lead to better relationships with suppliers and vendors, as invoices are paid accurately and on time.

To learn more about how to improve efficiency in Accounts Payable, watch the video below:

Enhanced Accuracy

With the traditional paper-based invoicing process being susceptible to errors and misplaced invoices, automated AP solutions come to the rescue by streamlining data entry and processing. By matching purchase orders with invoices, the software flags any discrepancies and ensures accurate payment. Automated AP solutions also create an audit trail for future reference, enabling easy tracking of invoices and swift resolution of any issues that may arise. All these measures enhance accuracy and reduce the likelihood of late payments, which can damage relationships with suppliers and vendors.

Increased Visibility

AP automation solutions can significantly increase visibility into the invoicing process, making it easier to track invoices and monitor payment status. Additionally, automated solutions can provide real-time updates on payment status, making it easier to communicate with suppliers and vendors.

By increasing visibility, organizations can improve relationships with suppliers and vendors, as they are provided with real-time updates on payment status. Additionally, increased visibility can lead to better financial management, as organizations are provided with more data to inform decision-making.

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