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Are you using the right finance software in your school?

Date published: Date modified: 2022-10-25

Do you use a finance software in your school, academy or multi-academy trust? If the answer is no, is it time to consider it?

If the answer is yes, are you sure that you’re using the software to its maximum potential?

SAAF Education provide financial management consultancy to schools, academies and MATs across the UK. We are experienced in operating various finance software's used across the sector. Our blog discusses which services your software should be providing, what you should be looking out for when making a decision and the benefits that your software should be delivering to your school to ensure that you are getting everything you can from your investment.

What is Finance Software?

Finance Software exists to aid in the fulfilment of obligations within the school; statutory requirements or internal monitoring, as they fall due. It seeks to do so whilst using the least possible amount of resource to achieve the highest value for money.

While each system we work with has unique features, there are core functions that are common across most systems i.e. collating information, reporting tools, records for audit purposes. However, with the number of software programs available, there are some systems that hold a competitive advantage when evaluating return on investment – these are the aspects to consider when deciding whether to invest in your first or upgrade your current system.

Advanced Reporting Tools

With the need for more frequent reporting, it is crucial that your software offers not only a wide range of reports, but also that the reporting suite is easy to use and illustrates the information required by stakeholders. Some systems that SAAF's Finance Consultant work with have been extremely effective in this area and have assisted users in high-level decision making.

Ability to Integrate Systems

It is key that schools effectively monitor and manage their budget. There are many software programs available to allow for this however, we’ve found that the most valuable systems can integrate with other systems which inevitably mitigates chances of manual errors, alleviates duplication of work and saves time. For example, the ability for the staffing budget to flow through to the accounting system. 

Also, the IT architecture for some systems are more effective than others. Some do not allow for integration of software across multiple sites i.e. in MATs - one single system vs. multiple user faces, which can cause issues when collecting information and reporting.

Internal Controls

Within the finance function, there are various people operating at different levels. It is key that the right parts of the system are aimed at the right people. The more effective systems allow for this level of control and aid in segregation of duties. This is achieved by the software having built-in user access levels that can be set in-line with the scheme of delegation.

Impartial Advice and Support

SAAF Education can provide impartial advice to help you find the finance software that best fits your establishments needs. We can also provide support if you decide to upgrade your current system or choose a new piece of software. 

Find out how we can help

 

 

By SAAF Finance
SAAF Education 340 110

5 February 2020

Categories

Academy
Schools
Education
Software
Finance

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