Now We Have Much Smoother Workflow

When the accounting manager went on leave, Smart Innovation Norway opted for an interim solution from Aider. The outcome was more efficient routines, higher system utilization, and improved control. “We’ve received a boost that we will carry forward well into the future,” says CFO Stian Aasberg Johansen.

Based in Halden, Smart Innovation Norway is far from a typical corporate structure. It is a research and innovation company with employees across several Nordic countries, but no subsidiaries. Additionally, it employs an unconventional branch structure, operates as a self-designated non-profit, and receives funding from governmental support agencies.

“In short, we are a relatively complex organization, which demands a bit more from us in finance,” Johansen explains.

Two Birds with One Stone

When the accounting manager was about to go on leave, finding a replacement was no simple task. But since they already had the ambition to get more out of their ERP system, could they potentially address both challenges at once?

“We were already using Aider for system support and knew they had a strong team with deep expertise in the solution we use. The idea was to bring them even closer, so that we could cover for the resource on leave while simultaneously optimizing our system utilization,” Johansen explains.

Accounting Advisor from Aider

The solution was to hire an accounting advisor from Aider. During the leave period, the advisor works two days a week at Smart Innovation Norway, handling everything from invoicing to reconciliation.

“These everyday tasks run smoothly. All the daily things just slide into place, and I don’t have to think about them at all. That’s satisfying. On top of that, we’ve benefited from having Aider in the background for things like payroll, where they’ve been able to analyze historical data,” Johansen explains.

Much Better Workflow

Even more important are the numerous small system improvement projects. Since the collaboration with Aider began, they have automated and streamlined work processes and routines.

“Previously, we had a lot of email correspondence and manual processes, whereas now we have a much smoother workflow. Tasks that used to go through finance first now only reach us when everything is in order. Pain points that previously consumed a lot of my time, I don’t think about anymore,” he says.

These improvements cover everything from vendor invoices to travel claims and timesheets. Tasks that previously needed manual approval now follow automated logic.

“Now we don’t need an external accountant at all. When the accounting manager eventually returns, it’s almost like a new onboarding. That’s how different the new working day is,” Johansen adds.

Set Up for Growth

More efficient work processes free up time—time the accounting manager can now spend on more value-creating activities.

“With these automations and this workflow, we can focus more on proactive work and follow-up. We have better real-time and historical data, which also allows our internal resources to dedicate more time to forward-looking analysis and tasks.”

For Johansen, it’s especially gratifying that, even though the temporary hire is limited, the changes are lasting.

“With these efficiencies, we can manage with our current staffing for many years to come. We are simply much better set up for growth.”