Writing, approving and implementing contracts will never enter the top ten list of most exciting things to do, but each step of the contract process is essential for all businesses of any size. External contracts with partners, suppliers and clients ensure everyone is working from the same page and offers all parties’ assurance that everyone will carry out their part as it is written within the contract. A contract management system helps to streamline this whole process helping companies to not only save time but actually increase revenue.
One Central Place for Contracts
Nobody likes paper these days. The thought of going to a filing cabinet, searching for a file and then it not being there is enough to make people not bother looking at all. Many times, contracts are signed, filed away and never looked at again. This can leave a company open to all kinds of problems that will leave a huge hole in their bottom line when they try to rectify them.
Contract management software stores all the contracts a company needs in one central place. Access to each contract is granted to the appropriate stakeholders and no one else. This means the contracts are accessible but secure at the same time. By making contracts more accessible, you can actively encourage all parties to adhere to their contractual responsibilities while assessing your own performance to make sure deadlines are met. By meeting all responsibilities, businesses can establish themselves as trustworthy partners and build long-lasting business relationships.
Cut Down On Contract Cycle Time
A common problem with the contract management process is the approval step. Waiting for each party to read and approve the process can be time consuming and of course, the contract cannot begin to be fulfilled until it has been approved. The vast majority of the time though, approval is delayed because of the amount of time taken for external companies to pick the contract up.
An automated contact management system alerts each party when it is necessary for them to approve the contract. This eliminates the bottleneck problem and allows the contract to move seamlessly on to the next part of the process. With real time updates, any changes to the contract can also be approved quickly and efficiently.
The smoother the cycle of the contract, the more likely it is for contracts to be renewed.
Minimize Process Errors
When it comes to contracts, there isn’t any margin for error. A mistake in a contract can lead to non-compliance and a whole quagmire of legal faux pas or straight up liable actions which could cost millions. Automated contract management systems cut down on human error that will inevitably happen at some point or other.
Assess, Adjust, Improve
Contract management software comes with a whole array of analytical tools that allow companies to track not only the progression of the contract itself but their own progress in the fulfillment of the contract. By using these tools to print demand reports and check records, businesses can identify their strengths and weaknesses within their contractual obligations. By adjusting their procedures to improve their process, they can strengthen their relationship with partners as well as gain new contracts through an excellent reputation.
Contract Management Software Adds Value
Contract management software takes the pressure off companies by reducing the amount of risk during the creation of contracts while moving the process along smoothly. By using automated software, companies can concentrate less on the administration part of the contract process and more on the fulfillment part which will increase revenue.
Get an in-depth look at how Contract Management Software streamlines the contract lifecycle by reading our White Paper.
