In today’s audit practices, efficiency is increasingly being directed to effectively leveraging resources to deliver comparable value to clients. This efficiency is typically quantified in terms of time and resource expenditure. Recently, the focus has shifted from the sheer cost of human resources to optimising their productivity through the use of additional resources. This shift reflects a growing emphasis on enhancing human efficiency, in contrast to merely managing human resource costs.

Now more than ever, efficiency is paramount for small and medium-sized practices, due to challenges in staff recruitment and retention, coupled with inflationary pressures. Embracing automation and standardisation of processes is a key strategy for these practices. It is, however, essential to remember that this is an ongoing journey, rather than a one-time fix. The tools and technology that worked yesterday might not suffice today, necessitating a mindset of continuous improvement and adaptation. It’s about making the most of current resources while being agile enough to incorporate new methodologies as they arise. Therefore, continuous learning should include the efficient use of technology and other resources, and growing knowledge as technology changes.

Another critical aspect is the human element in these practices. Training staff to be versatile across various service lines can dramatically increase efficiency. Imagine a team member adept in audit, tax and accounts preparation – it’s like having a Swiss Army knife in your toolkit. However, it’s not just about the skills; it’s also about creating a culture where questioning and improving the status quo is the norm. This culture of continuous improvement can lead to better, faster, and more efficient services. And, while it’s tempting to strive for perfection in every task (the so-called ‘gold plating’), it’s vital to focus on what truly adds value for the client. It’s about doing the right things excellently, not doing everything excessively.

Lastly, the pursuit of efficiency doesn’t stop at internal processes; it extends to client relationships and the nature of work undertaken. Firms need to critically assess whether every piece of work adds value, or if it’s a drain on resources. Sometimes, teaching clients to handle routine tasks, or choosing to disengage from economically unviable work can free up resources for more impactful and profitable projects.

Quality also plays a crucial role. Adhering to new quality management standards and regulatory requirements can actually drive efficiency. It’s about getting things right the first time and avoiding costly reworking. A working knowledge of standards leads to less time spent on audit, not more, as the purpose of work is understood and documented as the work is performed. Efficient budgeting and benchmarking against peers also provide a roadmap for continuous improvement, ensuring that practices remain competitive and forward-thinking in their approach.