Managing Change in Accounts Payable Automation

Why Change Management Matters

Successfully rolling out accounts payable automation software depends not just on technology but on people. Change can be challenging. This guide explores how to manage it effectively — starting with communication, expectation-setting, and stakeholder involvement.

Common Barriers to Change

• Lack of clarity about the “why”
• Inconsistent communication between teams
• Fear of losing control or job responsibilities
• Previous bad experiences with finance tech rollouts

How to Build Support

• ✅ Involve stakeholders early to co-create workflows
• ✅ Tailor your pitch: focus on time-saving and transparency
• ✅ Use pilot teams as success stories
• ✅ Provide clarity with visuals and FAQs
• ✅ Keep communication simple and frequent

Highlights from the Guide

• Kickoff Sessions: Use real examples to show how the new system works.
• Training: Combine video walk-throughs and live demos for stronger learning.
• Onboarding: Reinforce benefits like faster invoice processing and reduced error risk.
• Early Wins: Showcase how automation improves PO tracking and matching from the start.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage resistance to AP automation?

Listen to concerns, highlight personal benefits, and get buy-in from influential peers.

What if staff are too busy to adopt a new tool?

Present automation as a time-saver, not another task. Emphasise how it eliminates repetitive admin work.

How can we measure change success?

Track adoption metrics, invoice turnaround time, and number of approvals processed with the system.

How long does change adoption take?

With proper onboarding and comms, most AP teams adjust within 2–4 weeks.

Zahara provides the tools and structure to help your team embrace AP automation smoothly. Explore Zahara’s full feature set.

Download Zahara’s Guide to Change Management

Our accounts payable automation software includes powerful tools to ease adoption across your finance function — from approvals to audit trails.

• Customisable workflows & flexible user permissions
• Mobile-friendly approvals
• Rapid onboarding with pre-set templates
• Clear audit trail and spend visibility

Ready to Get Started?

Book a demo or start a free trial today. We'll help guide your team through change — the easy way.