5 strategies to maximize your AP and P2P automation investment

As companies grow, they often find that their Accounts Payable (AP) and Purchase to Pay (P2P) processes become increasingly complex and time-consuming. Good thing is that AP and P2P automation software can transform these workflows from time-drains intro streamlined, efficient systems. But, there is a catch. Simply buying the software isn't enough. To unlock the full potential, you need a strategic approach. 

Here are 5 strategies to get maximum value from your automation investment 

1. Map your current state before making any moves

The biggest mistake companies make is jumping straight to software selection without understanding what they're actually trying to fix.

Take time to document your existing AP and P2P workflows end-to-end. Where do invoices get stuck? Which approval chains create delays? What manual tasks eat up the most time? These pain points are your automation opportunities.

This groundwork does more than help you choose the right software—it gives you a baseline to measure improvement against and ensures you're solving real problems.

2. Choose the right software for your needs 

Not all automation platforms are built the same, and the fanciest solution isn't always the right one for your business.

Focus on what matters for your specific situation:

• Ease of use: Will your team actually adopt it, or will it gather digital dust?
• Scalability: Can it grow with you over the next 3-5 years?
• Integration capabilities: Does it play nicely with your ERP, procurement systems, and other critical tools?
• Industry fit: Does it understand the unique requirements of your sector?

The best software is the one your team will use consistently, not the one with the longest feature list.

3. Build structure into your automated workflows

Automation amplifies whatever you put into i, including chaos. Without proper structure, you'll just be processing messy invoices faster.

Establish clear standards before you flip the switch:

• Create a standardized approval hierarchy with defined thresholds.
• Set up intelligent routing rules and automatic notifications.
• Implement consistent coding practices across all invoices and POs.
• Define exception-handling procedures.

4. Invest in your people, not just your technology

The most sophisticated software in the world won't deliver results if your team doesn't know how to use it properly.

Prioritize comprehensive training that covers both the "how" and the "why." Work with your software provider to ensure training goes beyond basic button-clicking to show your team how automation actually makes their jobs easier. Look for vendors that offer ongoing training resources, not just a one-time onboarding session, and ensure responsive support is available when questions arise.

When your team understands and embraces the system, adoption soars and benefits multiply.

5. Monitor performance and continuously improve 

Automation isn't a "set it and forget it" solution. The companies that see the greatest returns treat it as a living system that requires ongoing optimization.

Track metrics that matter:

• Invoice processing time (from receipt to payment).
• Error and exception rates.
• Early payment discount capture.
• Vendor satisfaction scores.
• Team hours saved.

Use this data to identify friction points and opportunities. Maybe a certain vendor's invoices consistently require manual intervention. Maybe one approval step creates unnecessary delays. Each insight is a chance to refine your system and compound your efficiency gains.

The bottom line

AP and P2P automation can make a real difference in cutting down complexity and saving time. When implemented thoughtfully, it transforms finance teams from transaction processors into strategic partners who can focus on analysis, relationships, and driving business value.

The difference between companies that see marginal improvements and those that achieve transformative results comes down to approach. Follow these five strategies, and you won't just automate your processes—you'll revolutionize them.

Ready to see what's possible? Discover how eye-share Workflow can transform your AP processes and give your team back the time to focus on strategic work. Because the best invoice is the one that handles itself.