Core Business Management: PSA (Professional Services Automation) & ERP
This is the central nervous system for a service-based business. It integrates multiple functions.
What it is:PSA software is specifically designed for project-based service businesses. It combines project management, resource scheduling, time tracking, and billing. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is broader, including accounting, inventory, and HR.
Key Functions:
Project Management:Plan tasks, track progress, and manage deliverables.
Resource Management:Schedule your team’s time on projects, avoiding over/under-utilization.
Time & Expense Tracking:Log billable hours and project-related expenses directly to the correct client and project.
Quotation: Manage quotation to clients
Booking:
Invoicing & Billing:Generate invoices based on time, fixed fees, or milestones automatically.
Financial Reporting:Profitability analysis per project/client, revenue forecasts, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Communication & Collaboration
Essential for internal teams and client communication.
What it is:Tools to facilitate seamless communication within your team and with your clients.
Key Functions:
Instant Messaging:For quick internal team communication.
Client Portals:A secure, branded space to share files, messages, and project updates with clients, avoiding messy email chains.
Phone Systems (VoIP):Professional business phone systems that can work from anywhere.