* Access anytime, anywhere. External AP workflow gives buyers and managers an email notification when invoices need to be approved. In addition, they can check, comment on, add to, reject or sign off on invoices 24/7, worldwide. Web-based workflow offers the ability to create a matrix for automation of the approval process, including support for non-ERP systems and mobile devices.

* User friendly. One of the most common reasons for failure of business process automation projects is due to confusion, errors and user rejection. Users who are unfamiliar with ERP applications may not readily embrace the ERP interface due to its complexity and uniqueness. Fortunately, easy deployment via the Web browser and a familiar environment helps to simplify training and promote user acceptance in external AP workflow.

* Visibility and control. Workflow outside the ERP system allows users to access all relevant information in order to make an informed decision when approving an invoice, without the need to be an ERP application user. This can reduce the need to add ERP seats in the execution of an AP automation project. Users have a single access point for invoice data along with the original document image and a history of actions carried out on it. As a result, companies can:

Share AP data across business applications; Include Purchasing and other involved departments in the workflow; Include pre- and post-processing steps in workflow; Extend approval workflow to remote staff and mobile devices; View archived invoices and audit trail outside the ERP application.

* Stability for invoice processing. Since workflow outside the ERP system is unaffected by changes to the ERP implementation (e.g., upgrade to a new version, etc.), business continuity is maintained by keeping AP processing stable through the countless IT landscape changes a company can expect to undergo.