How do you execute a data analytics arm in your accounting firm?
How do you execute a data analytics arm in your accounting firm?
3 possible directions
Hire offshore - There are plenty of BPO’s avaialble in many different countries around the world. The Philippines is certainly the most popular for Etani firms, however, not the only option. Hiring a full time resource offshore is certainly from our perspective been the most sucesful route we have seen by firms. Its a weight off your shoulders to empower your cloud intermediate to senior level accountants into this world without them having to become Power BI data champions. They can concentrate on layout, design, value to clients, and delivery. Working with the offshore staff member managing and directing them to work on the appropriate projects.
Upskill current staff - This is a role for your intermediate to senior level cloud champion in your firm. However, if you have a person already in your firm who is in fact a Microsoft Excel champion, then empower them first. If they know Excel, they will likely pick up Power BI fast. If you do not have an Excel person, but do have a smart cloud staff member, it is certainly possible, but lower your expectations. It will take time fo pick this up. Do not expect results in a month and certainly don’t expect anything if you don’t give them time week to week to work on this.
Partner with a consultant - Using a Power BI consulatant can at times have better outcomes than hiring or upskiling as above. Although your choice of consultant is crucial. Its important to work with consultants who not only know what they are doing but also have templates ready to go to speed up the process. They offer a range of different packages from project based work, Etani support and implementation, and even a support desk to assist when you face the inevitable challenges.
Keep this final thought in mind. Power BI is not hard. But it is time consuming to learn. We have seen many firms come and go, expecting the Etani Power BI templates to add enough client value, and not having a vision for the platform with their clients. Spend the time. Ensure your staff are given appropriate time to upskill before your expectatations turn to profit. Learning data modeling, DAX, table relationships and querying a database all take time to understand. Remember, this is a full time job in which many have taken years to master.