4 ways to combat Finance and Operations App Overload

published on 07 April 2022

App fatigue is a common issue many small businesses face without even realizing it. According to Hubspot, 73% of organizations indicated nearly all their apps will be SaaS by 2020. While this shows tremendous innovation in the small business industry, at the same time, small businesses are balancing numerous free SaaS platforms causing app fatigue. 

Here we have simplified what's app fatigue, how businesses get it, and what are some easy steps that can help small businesses and startups fight it.

What is app fatigue

We can call it a FOMO (fear of missing out) or the belief that not using enough SaaS and automation products is keeping your startup from efficiency? Opening 30 tabs every morning for functions such as accounting, bookkeeping, paying bills, creating invoices, handling finance, etc isn't uncommon. Since the market is flooded with so many free options, small businesses have multiple subscriptions for different functions. This excess often leads to a feeling of mental exhaustion from new apps because there is already so much that you can handle.

According to 2020 Annual SaaS trends, small companies on average use 15 apps per employee. 

Is there a way to combat app overload?

Yes, there sure is. As business owners, you are the biggest strategy makers in your organization. Below are some ways you can make the most out of your budget while sticking to the relevant apps.

 Make a function-wise technology budget

Categorize your different functions and list the most used apps for each. Your company will need accounting, bookkeeping, internal communication, marketing, HR, etc. Categorizing SaaS subscriptions based on functions will help you track the number of apps your business is using. When you allocate money to each function, you are more mindful of subscribing to newer technologies. 

Let go of the "freemium" temptation

Free trials are the biggest ways SaaS companies attract businesses. Try an app for 14 days free and there you have it, multiple emails spamming your inbox every day. Instead of having multiple free subscriptions, look for apps that offer multiple app integrations. Even if you have to pay a monthly fee for those services, do it. Make a list of all the current apps and your organization's needs. Accordingly aim to have no more than two apps for each function. 

More apps don't mean higher competitiveness

Your fellow business owners start using a new expense tracker and you're suddenly tempted to try it as well. Don't keep adding newer technology just to be ahead of the competition. While it's important to be open-minded about different ways of working, at the same time understand that running a business is no race. See what fits your needs and try to stick with it for 6 months at least to judge if it benefits your startup.

Support employee training

Conduct timely team audits to see if your team is comfortable with adapting to different technology and understanding new integrative features. Pay attention to skill development and that way you can stick to your existing apps and make full use of their newer features.

Cognate helps you streamline your finance and CRM solutions 

Talk about combating app fatigue... let Cognate be the first step you take. If this interests you, then hop on a call today.

Until then

Happy Business

Note: All opinions are personal. This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, accounting, or tax advice. 

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