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What clients are really telling us about payment flexibility

Posted on November 6, 2025 | by Danielle Graham | Leave a Comment

PART 2 of 5

If you’ve ever wondered how much your clients value the ability to pay over time, the data is in—and it’s more than just a preference. It’s an expectation that’s influencing firm choice, satisfaction, and repeat business.

QuickFee’s 2025 Client Satisfaction Survey revealed some compelling insights:

69% said flexible payment options are extremely important
96% were satisfied or very satisfied with their payment plan
57% would have struggled to pay or delayed payment without it
66% would strongly recommend the service to others
61% are highly likely to use a payment plan again

These aren’t just numbers—they represent a clear trend: clients want more control over how they manage fees. In times of uncertainty or financial stress, being able to split payments over time offers reassurance without the stigma of requesting special treatment.

For firms, this insight presents a powerful opportunity. By meeting clients with proactive, transparent payment options, firms reduce awkward conversations, avoid late payments, and demonstrate real commercial empathy. The result? Stronger trust and improved client retention.

And critically, it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your value. Clients aren’t asking you to reduce your price—they’re asking for ways to manage their end of the equation more smoothly.

Questions to reflect on:

Have any clients asked about instalments or delayed billing recently?
Could you make payment conversations easier by offering more choice up front?
What would it mean for your team if fewer invoices went unpaid?

Up next: Why informal flexibility may be doing more harm than good.

The new standard – Why flexibility isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore

Posted on August 22, 2025 | by Danielle Graham | Leave a Comment

PART 1 of 5

As client expectations evolve, legal and accounting firms are navigating more than just technical complexity—they’re facing growing demand for flexibility, especially when it comes to payments.

For years, many practices have gone above and beyond for their clients. Deferred billing, split payments, and customised terms have all become informal norms. While well-meaning, these gestures often place financial strain on practices and distract staff with administrative follow-ups.

But what was once a favour is fast becoming a default expectation. Clients today want transparency, control, and empathy in every interaction—especially when it comes to managing fees. The demand for flexible payment options is no longer confined to just a few outlier cases. It’s part of the evolving client experience.

The good news? Flexibility no longer needs to come at a cost. Structured, tech-enabled payment options are making it possible to offer support without sacrificing revenue or efficiency. Leading firms are already embracing this shift, treating payment flexibility as a standard part of client experience—not an occasional exception.

It’s not about lowering your fees. It’s about removing friction from the process and meeting clients where they are. The firms that thrive in today’s climate are those willing to adapt how they bill—not just what they bill for.

What to consider:

Are your payment options making it easier or harder for clients to say yes?
How much internal time is spent managing informal billing arrangements?
Could structured options reduce stress on your team and clients alike?

Up next: What clients are really telling us about how they want to pay.

5 Reasons to Embrace AI and Innovation for Accounting and Legal Professionals

Posted on August 21, 2024 | by Danielle Graham | Leave a Comment

In the rapidly evolving landscape of professional services, legal and accounting firms in Australia are under increasing pressure to adapt and innovate. Technological advancements in automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity threats are transforming these industries, offering numerous benefits that can significantly enhance business operations. Here are the top five reasons why embracing these innovations is crucial for legal and accounting firms.

1. Increased Efficiency and Productivity

Automation for Routine Tasks

Automation streamlines repetitive and time-consuming tasks, allowing professionals to focus on higher-value activities. In accounting, tasks such as data entry, reconciliation, and compliance reporting can be automated, reducing human error and speeding up processes. Legal firms can automate document review, contract analysis, and legal research, significantly cutting down the time required for these tasks.

AI-Powered Decision Making

Artificial intelligence enhances decision-making processes by providing data-driven insights and analytics. In the legal sector, AI can predict case outcomes and offer strategic recommendations. In accounting, AI algorithms analyse financial data to detect anomalies and predict trends, enabling more accurate forecasting and strategic planning.

2. Enhanced Client Services

Personalized Client Interactions

Technological advancements enable firms to offer more personalized services to their clients. AI-driven tools can analyse client data to provide tailored advice and solutions. This level of personalisation enhances client satisfaction and loyalty, setting firms apart in a competitive market.

Faster Response Times

Automation and AI enable faster processing of client requests and queries. For instance, automated chatbots can handle routine inquiries, freeing up professionals to address more complex issues. This improves response times and overall client experience.

3. Improved Data Security

Advanced Cybersecurity Measures

With the increasing reliance on digital solutions, robust cybersecurity measures are essential to protect sensitive client information. Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), data encryption, and regular security audits helps safeguard against cyber threats and data breaches. Legal and accounting firms can ensure their clients’ data remains secure and confidential.

Compliance with Data Protection Regulations

Adopting advanced cybersecurity practices ensures compliance with stringent data protection regulations. This not only protects the firm from potential legal repercussions but also builds trust with clients who are increasingly concerned about data privacy and security. 4. Cost Savings and Scalability

Reducing Operational Costs

Automation and AI can lead to significant cost savings by reducing the need for manual labour and minimizing errors. These technologies streamline workflows, allowing firms to operate more efficiently and cost-effectively.

Scalable Solutions

Technological advancements offer scalable solutions that can grow with the firm. Cloud-based services, for example, provide flexible storage and computing power that can be adjusted based on the firm’s needs. This scalability ensures that firms can easily adapt to changing demands and expand their operations without incurring substantial costs.

5. Staying Competitive in a Digital World

Innovative Service Offerings

Embracing technology enables firms to offer innovative services that meet the evolving needs of their clients. This can include virtual consultations, real-time financial analysis, and predictive legal analytics. Staying at the forefront of technological advancements ensures that firms remain competitive in a rapidly changing market.

Attracting Top Talent

Modern technology appeals to tech-savvy professionals who seek dynamic and forward-thinking workplaces. By adopting the latest technologies, legal and accounting firms can attract and retain top talent, ensuring they have the skills and expertise needed to drive the business forward.

Drive Business Growth with QuickFee’s Smart Payment Solutions

If you find yourself spending too much time chasing payments and worrying about payment data security, QuickFee can help. We offer an easy-to-use online payment portal, seamless Fee Funding and Disbursement Funding solutions, and time-saving practice management integrations that allow accounting and legal professionals to get paid on time, win more work, and increase revenue.

Every part of QuickFee is tailored to help your firm reduce manual work, track payments more effectively, and reduce aging debtors. By integrating these smart payment solutions, your firm can focus on leveraging AI and technological innovations to enhance operations and client services.

Ready to make one small change that will lead to big wins? Give us a call at 02 8090 7700 or schedule a demo today.

Decoding Valuation: Navigating Accounting Practice Trends

Posted on June 7, 2024 | by Danielle Graham | Leave a Comment

In an era marked by dynamic shifts in the accounting landscape, understanding the valuation trends of accounting practices has never been more crucial. ATL Network Pty Ltd have recently released a report on accounting practice valuation trends for 2024 which provides a comprehensive analysis of the current market, unveiling significant changes in how accounting practices are valued.

Key Trends Revealed

Drawing insights from data on over 600 accounting firms, the report sheds light on evolving valuation metrics. Traditional measures are being reconsidered as accounting practices are now valued at higher multiples, driven by increased demand and evolving market conditions. This shift necessitates a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to these valuations.

Strategic Guidance for Sellers and Buyers

For those considering buying or selling their practice, this report serves as a valuable resource. Sellers are encouraged to focus on enhancing market appeal and profitability, while buyers are advised to develop clear acquisition strategies and conduct thorough due diligence. Post-acquisition integration is also highlighted as a critical focus for both parties.

Competitive Insights and Conclusion

The report underscores the competitive nature of the market, emphasizing the need for strategic positioning. Accountants keen on maximizing their practice’s value or acquisition potential will find this report particularly beneficial.

For more in-depth analysis and actionable insights, download the full report here: https://www.practicesuccession.com/apv

Case Study: The Power of Personal Connections

Posted on April 22, 2024 | by Danielle Graham | Leave a Comment

In the competitive landscape of modern banking, where advancements in tech often take centre stage, few banks can demonstrate the enduring value of personal relationships in business growth. Chris Bayliss, the CEO of Judo Bank, shares invaluable insights into how the institution grew from a mere idea into Australia’s most successful challenger bank in under eight years, and it’s all about putting relationships first.

Know Your Audience:

Any business that treats you as just another number will never truly gain a deep understanding of its audience. By acknowledging that every business is distinct, with its challenges and aspirations and building solid relationships, you can effectively address each customer’s individual requirements.

“Judo was conceived as an idea nearly eight years ago because we believed that there was a market failure in the way that banks were servicing small to medium-sized businesses. We knew that Australian SMEs deserved more. Every business is unique, with a unique team driving it. That’s why we’re bringing back relationship banking, to ensure we can service the unique needs of our customers.”

Chris Bayliss, CEO of Judo Bank

Invest in Connection:

Establishing meaningful connections with customers goes beyond basic business transactions—it’s about forming genuine connections with customers. By taking a hands-on approach with your customers, you can gain invaluable insights into their operations and growth strategies and foster a sense of trust and reliability.

“We learn more about a customer’s business by being on their premises. We want to go there, we want to actually get to know that the owner, the sponsor, the founder, we want to see the business and operation and when they’re telling us their story and their growth plans, then it’s more real for us. As a character-based lender, connecting with our customers is key to delivering for them.”

Chris Bayliss, CEO of Judo Bank

Get the Right Talent:

Unlike traditional banking models where strong personal connection is not standard, a team adept at building and nurturing client relationships emphasises quality over quantity, enabling them to develop a deep understanding of customer needs and aspirations. This personalised service fosters loyalty and customer retention.

“Every part of our business has been architected around providing the best possible service to businesses, and it’s anchored off a highly skilled, highly experienced relationship banker. Most have 20 years’ experience in the industry and have no more than 30 customers. Our bankers know their customers, they can tell you their names, they can tell you what they’re thinking about, whether it’s expansion or succession. Trust and relationships are crucial to customer retention and advocacy, and you need the right people to build them.”

Chris Bayliss, CEO of Judo Bank

Build Relationships into Your Customer Value Proposition:

In a landscape with many players, a business built on relationships will distinguish itself by placing connection at the core of its value proposition. This emphasis on personal connections transcends mere transactions, fostering a sense of partnership and mutual success.

“The products are the same – a loan is a loan; a line of credit is a line of credit and loan pricing matters. But what matters more to businesses is a relationship with a banker, not a 12 month one, but an enduring relationship built over many years where they can build that trust. A banker that can make a decision, they want to deal with the decision maker. The good old-fashioned handshake.”

Chris Bayliss, CEO of Judo Bank

Judo Bank’s success is a compelling case study on the value of relationship banking. By prioritising connections over transactions, Judo is redefining the banking experience for SMEs in Australia. As businesses seek personalised solutions and genuine partnerships, the lessons gleaned from Judo Bank’s journey are more relevant than ever.

The principles highlighted by Judo Bank’s approach are not exclusive to the banking sector. In any professional business, the strategies highlighted in this case study are necessary for sustained success. By prioritising client relationships and striving to understand their needs deeply, any professional service provider can set themselves apart and achieve sustained growth.

Click to learn more about how Judo’s bringing back the art of relationship banking to service Australian SMEs: http://www.judo.bank

The Power of Micro Habits: Transforming Your Business, One Small Change at a Time

Posted on January 30, 2024 | by Danielle Graham | Leave a Comment

When we think of New Year’s resolutions, we often consider making big, immediate changes. While there is merit in the intention, it can be challenging to sustain, and when the motivation wanes, it can feel like failure. Enter micro habits – small, easily achievable actions that, when consistently practised, lead to substantial improvements over time. Unlike drastic changes, micro habits operate on the principle of compounding, where small efforts accumulate to create meaningful progress.

Decoding Micro Habits: Small Changes, Big Impact

Micro habits are small actions ingrained into daily routines, focusing on gradual improvements rather than drastic overhauls. When practised consistently, these small, deliberate changes compound over time and drive significant positive outcomes.

Here are 5 tips to help you implement micro habits:

Identify Your Target Areas: Pinpoint specific areas for improvement, such as communication skills, time management, client interactions, or industry knowledge. These become your target for micro habit development.

Start Small: Break down the larger goals into manageable tasks. For instance, improving your communication skills could involve practising active listening for five minutes each day during a client call or team meeting.

Consistency is Key: Commit to daily practice, reinforcing behaviour until it becomes automatic within your professional routine.

Set Reminders and Triggers: Use reminders or triggers to prompt micro habit execution through alarms, sticky notes, or integrating habits into existing routines.

Track Progress: Maintain a simple tracking system to monitor your progress. This will provide insights into effectiveness and motivate further development.

How Can Micro Habits Help Grow Your Business?

Cultivating personal micro habits is the cornerstone for business growth by instilling discipline, efficiency, and a positive mindset. These habits subtly influence those around you, shaping personal and professional dynamics and creating a ripple effect that impacts workplace culture, team dynamics, and business processes. For example, if a leader consistently demonstrates punctuality and preparedness, it sets a standard for the team.

Simply put, personal micro habits serve as a model for behaviour, inspiring others to adopt positive habits that accumulate over time.

Incremental improvements through consistent execution of micro habits can drive positive performance and growth, leading to increased productivity, streamlined operations, improved customer experiences, and a culture of innovation.

For example, micro habits aimed at improving customer service contribute to improved customer experiences, leading to higher satisfaction, retention, and referrals. Similarly, small changes that encourage experimentation, creativity, and learning foster a culture of innovation within the business.

Cultivating Business Growth, One Habit at a Time

By strategically integrating small, purposeful changes into daily actions, individuals can inspire transformation within their teams and, ultimately, their businesses. Selecting micro habits that drive personal improvement and business development acts as a catalyst for continuous improvement, propelling businesses toward sustained growth and success. Start small, stay consistent, and witness how these micro habits collectively fuel the evolution of a business, nurturing a landscape of innovation, efficiency, and prosperity.

Small Changes, Big Wins: Transform your Payments with QuickFee

Introducing simple yet powerful changes to your payment processes can yield results. QuickFee’s seamless fee funding and disbursement funding solutions allow accounting and legal professionals to get paid on time, win more work and increase revenue. With integrations to many of the best-known software packages, QuickFee makes your payment process seamless, so you can dedicate more time to nurturing your business’s growth.

Ready to make one small change that will lead to big wins? Give us a call at 02 8090 7700.

Breaking the cycle of disadvantage with The Smith Family

Posted on December 14, 2023 | by Danielle Graham | Leave a Comment

The rising cost of living in Australia is plunging more families into poverty, affecting over 1.2 million children. With schools becoming more reliant on digital classroom tools, such as laptops and tablet computers, the ability of families living in poverty to keep up with these needs is diminishing. Despite their parents’ efforts, these children will encounter daily hurdles that impede their education and the long-term impact can limit their life choices.

The Smith Family’s Educational Initiatives

The Smith Family’s programs, such as numeracy, literacy and mentoring, focus on early intervention and provide sustained support throughout a child’s educational journey. Beginning in early learning and spanning through primary and high school, The Smith Family programs work to ensure these children can reach their full potential through access to education and learning programs.

The Power of Sustained Intervention

By applying donations to long-term programs, such as Learning for Life, The Smith Family can invest in a child’s education for the duration of their schooling, which proves more effective than concentrating support on particular periods of a child’s life. This approach increases high school graduation and university enrollments, reducing criminal convictions and reliance on welfare.

QuickFee’s Partnership and Impact

QuickFee makes an annual Christmas donation of $5,000 to the Smith Family, which aims to provide immediate support to the established programs to deliver long-term positive benefits for impacted children and their families.

If you would like to donate or support The Smith Family and support meaningful, long-term change, you can learn more about their work here.

Donation link: https://www.thesmithfamily.com.au/donate

Transforming Accounting Efficiency – A Case Study

Posted on October 3, 2023 | by Valerie Baillairge | Leave a Comment

In the world of professional services and accounting, where timely payments and efficient debt collection are paramount, QuickFee emerges as a game-changer. This Australian-based financial technology firm specialises in innovative payment solutions, and it’s creating ripples of transformation across the industry by revolutionising the way professionals receive payments. Today, we delve into a compelling case study that showcases how QuickFee has partnered with Burwood Accounting Services, an esteemed accounting firm in Australia, to address their debt collection and efficiency challenges.

Burwood Accounting Services: A Profile in Excellence

Burwood Accounting Services, founded in 1998, is a stalwart in Australia’s accounting landscape. With a steadfast commitment to delivering comprehensive financial solutions to individuals and businesses, the firm has steadily expanded its services and clientele over the years.

The Challenge: Streamlining Payment Collection and Payment Processing

Burwood Accounting Services faced two critical challenges that are all too familiar in the industry:

Inefficient Payment Collection: The firm grappled with the task of collecting overdue debts effectively, often leading to delays in cash flow.
Cumbersome Payment Processes: The existing payment methods used for settling invoices left much to be desired in terms of user-friendliness, causing inconvenience to clients.

The QuickFee Solution: Empowering Efficiency and Convenience

In response to these challenges, Burwood Accounting Services turned to QuickFee for a solution. QuickFee’s offerings included:

Flexible Payment Options: QuickFee introduced a gamut of payment choices, empowering clients to settle their invoices with ease and convenience.
Seamless Integration: QuickFee seamlessly integrated with the firm’s invoicing process, allowing for a swift and hassle-free implementation.
The Remarkable Results: A Triumph of Efficiency and Client Satisfaction

The integration of QuickFee into Burwood Accounting Services brought about a transformation in their operations, yielding remarkable results:

Enhanced Payment Collection: QuickFee’s array of payment options streamlined the payment process for clients, leading to a substantial reduction in debtor days. Clients embraced the convenience of paying invoices through provided links, eliminating the need to navigate their banking systems and minimising distractions.
Time Savings: QuickFee’s dedicated support staff and automated payment reminders help streamline the payment process and saved administrative time for the firm’s staff.
Positive Client Feedback: Clients warmly welcomed the convenient payment options offered through QuickFee. The firm’s decision to incorporate QuickFee links into all emailed invoices received unanimous praise from clients.

Conclusion: QuickFee – Paving the Path to Success

QuickFee proved to be an invaluable asset to Burwood Accounting Services, effectively tackling their debt collection and payment processing challenges. The integration resulted in improved efficiency, a reduction in debtor days, and heightened client satisfaction. Moreover, QuickFee’s exceptional customer service and dedicated support staff played a pivotal role in Burwood Accounting Services’ success.

Recommendations: A Call to Embrace Innovation

The success story of Burwood Accounting Services with QuickFee resonates as a testament to the value of embracing innovative payment solutions in the accounting industry. We recommend that accounting firms, especially those wrestling with debt collection and payment processing issues, consider integrating QuickFee into their operations. QuickFee’s user-friendly payment options and unwavering support can lead to enhanced financial operations and stronger client relations.

In conclusion, the case of Burwood Accounting Services underscores the transformative potential of innovative payment solutions in the accounting realm. By embracing technology and efficiency, accounting firms can steer towards better financial outcomes and provide an enhanced experience for their clients.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Accounting

Posted on May 15, 2023 | by Valerie Baillairge | Leave a Comment

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the accounting profession, bringing forth a wave of transformative changes. From streamlining data analysis to enhancing efficiency and accuracy, AI is empowering accountants to elevate their role in financial management.

The AI revolution has given rise to intelligent machines capable of learning, reasoning, and making informed decisions. AI encompasses various technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and robotic process automation. These technologies enable systems to analyse vast amounts of data, extract valuable insights, and automate repetitive tasks that were once manual and time-consuming.

In accounting, the data aspect of AI is particularly significant. Traditionally, accountants relied on manual entry and analysis of financial data. With AI, however, systems can automatically collect and process data, minimizing errors and freeing up accountants’ time for more strategic and analytical tasks. By leveraging AI, accountants can now focus on interpreting financial information, providing valuable insights, and making informed recommendations to support business decisions.

Enhancing Efficiency and Accuracy

AI is revolutionising accounting processes, driving efficiency and accuracy in various areas. For instance, AI-powered software can automate data entry, eliminating the need for manual input and reducing the risk of human errors. These systems can scan and extract relevant information from documents such as invoices, receipts, and bank statements, ensuring accurate and timely recording of financial transactions.

Furthermore, AI algorithms can analyse financial data to identify patterns, trends, and anomalies. This helps accountants in detecting potential fraud or unusual activities, enabling timely intervention and prevention. AI can also assist in automating financial reporting by generating customised reports based on predefined criteria, saving valuable time and resources.

Another area where AI is making significant strides is in the realm of financial forecasting. By analysing historical data, market trends, and other relevant factors, AI algorithms can provide accurate predictions and projections. This empowers accountants to make informed forecasts, support strategic planning, and optimise resource allocation.

Transforming Accounting Practices

AI is transforming the very core of accounting practices, redefining how professionals approach their work. For example, AI-powered tools can automate complex calculations and data analysis, allowing accountants to focus on interpreting results and providing valuable insights. These tools can also streamline the auditing process by identifying potential risks and anomalies, thereby enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of audits.

AI’s impact is not limited to internal accounting processes. Client-facing aspects such as customer support and advisory services can also be enhanced through AI-powered solutions. Chatbots and virtual assistants can handle routine inquiries, freeing up accountants’ time to address more complex client needs and provide strategic guidance. AI-powered chatbots, such as ChatGPT, can offer instant answers to common accounting questions, improving customer satisfaction and response times.

The Potential of ChatGPT in Accounting

ChatGPT, an advanced language model developed by OpenAI, holds significant potential for the accounting profession. This AI-powered chatbot can engage in natural language conversations, providing accurate and insightful responses to accounting-related queries. Accountants can leverage ChatGPT to gain quick access to information, resolve common accounting issues, and improve overall efficiency.

However, it is essential to recognise the limitations of AI chatbots. While they excel at providing information based on predefined knowledge, they may struggle with complex or nuanced queries that require human judgment and expertise. Therefore, a balance must be struck between utilizing AI chatbots for routine tasks and relying on human accountants for complex scenarios that demand professional judgment.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the accounting profession is driving a significant transformation that accountants must embrace. AI offers numerous benefits, including enhanced efficiency, improved accuracy, and the ability to provide strategic insights. By automating repetitive tasks, AI frees up accountants’ time, allowing them to focus on higher-value activities such as analysis, advisory services, and decision-making.

In this era of AI-driven advancements, accountants who embrace technology and continually update their skills will be well-positioned to thrive. By leveraging AI’s capabilities, accountants can elevate their role from traditional number-crunching to strategic advisors, providing valuable insights and contributing to the success of their organizations. Embracing the AI revolution in accounting is not just an option—it’s a necessity for accountants to remain relevant and maximise their impact in the ever-evolving business landscape.

How to choose the right Practice Management Software for your firm

Posted on March 6, 2023 | by Danielle Graham | Leave a Comment

Choosing the right Practice Management Software (PMS) for your practice can seem overwhelming, considering the range of options available today. In addition, it takes time and research to select the right system for your firm, and this comes with a significant cost. So, when looking for a digital tool that needs to deliver efficiencies, a few factors are worth considering to guide your investment decision.

In this guide, we outline seven steps to consider taking before you select the PMS that is right for your firm.

Understand the current situation

You need to understand what is working and what needs attention in your current processes before you can begin to identify the right solution for your firm.

Identify your essential deliverables

Clarifying what is essential in your new PMS will help you identify relevant solutions and disregard those that can’t service your firm’s needs.

Evaluate the costs and ROI

Any new software investment is costly not only in the monetary sense but also in time and resources. Therefore, a comprehensive view of the size of the investment needed and any potential savings will make the decision-making process easier.

Determine integration options

Only some parts of the day-to-day running of the business will be included in a PMS. However, if you can integrate the other components of your business into your new PMS, the process will be more seamless.

Don’t forget security and compliance

Don’t assume all solutions are created equal. Take a comprehensive look at the security and compliance capabilities of the system to ensure you are putting your data and that of your clients in safe hands.

Is it scalable?

There is little point investing in something that may solve your problems today but cannot scale if you plan to grow your business in the future. Therefore, flexibility and scalability are significant factors when choosing your new PMS.

Will it enhance the client experience?

If your PMS negatively impacts your client experience in any way is a definite no. Instead, system implementation should enhance the client experience and create a positive impression on your clients.

Ultimately, your firm’s best practice management system will meet your specific needs and fit in with your firm’s policies. In addition, it should create efficiencies, improve ineffective areas, and build on the existing processes that are working. Finally, making the right decision on your PMS investment will help position your firm for future success.