Behind an intervention, there is a whole chain of involved parties, but in all cases, the final step is the billing. A central element that will close the case. With small SMEs on one side and large international manufacturers on the other, how can this transaction, which also includes a notion of performance, be carried out in an optimal way? Here are our 3 tips for efficient and agile billing management.
1) Prepare the billing process in advance
Invoicing is often a source of stress for the contractor when this step is not treated as a key part of the process. It is not just a payment, whether or not linked to a performance report, the invoice is the document that notifies the end of a project. It is an opportunity for the various parties involved to bring an intervention to a serene close. Therefore, it is important to ensure that all relevant documents are present. By adding an intermediate step between the end of the repair and the invoicing, we allow everyone to evaluate their actions, to check the information, to exchange on a subject in a context of trust on the basis of a transfer of information. At Agoragroup, all of our warranty reports include, prior to the billing process, an intelligent verification system to reduce billing disputes.
2) Choose transparency in billing
By favouring transparency on invoicing elements and in particular on the notions of performance, manufacturers develop a relationship of trust with the technical stations. Indeed, it is essential that billing is clear and legible for all parties involved in order to improve performance and reduce conflicts. At Agoragroup, we offer the same visibility for the manufacturer and the repairer. We encourage a collaboration based on continuous improvement and a fluid relationship.
3) Adapt intelligently to the business reality
Volume of invoicing does not necessarily mean dehumanisation.It is possible to reconcile digitalisation and personalisation. Billing policy is very often defined at the European level on the manufacturer’s side, which implies incorporating variables depending on the location while respecting norms that ensure standardisation. We have designed tools that allow for this flexibility, as we believe it is essential to take into account the business reality of each technical station.
Billing appears to be a complex aspect, as it is often neglected in IT investments. This element can become a motivational and informative tool in the relationship between manufacturers and technical stations. Our feedback has enabled us to identify areas of concern and to create a secure, yet flexible, framework to generate optimal billing.