CentrAL INC! | Central Alabama Business Journal July/August 2025 | Page 60

By CANDACE THOMPSON
industry expert: business

IS BUSINESS MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE A SOLUTION FOR SMALL-BUSINESS OWNERS?

By CANDACE THOMPSON

For years, Regions Bank has
served the needs of smallbusiness
owners in the River
Region and beyond. Our
work centers on serving as
a key resource for financial
advice and guidance, as
well as money-management
and lending solutions so
businesses can navigate the
opportunities and unique
needs they face.
We often hear from smallbusiness clients that they feel weighed down by the administrative tasks of running their business, which can drain time and resources but are necessary to keep operations moving forward. You know, tasks such as:
Reconciling accounts
Managing employees’ business spending
Monitoring inventory
And so much more
This, in turn, can help maximize efficiency, foster growth, and better manage risk.
Specifically, business management software can free up time in the following areas:
Payroll: Software can improve timekeeping and make sure businesses are up to date with taxes and deductions. This is one of the first places many companies start.
Accounting: Automating accounting procedures can reduce expenses and risks. Software can help with regulatory compliance and ensure documentation is in order in case the business is audited.
Cash flow: You don’ t want to be caught short-handed, but you also don’ t want too much cash on hand. Forecasting software tools can help optimize cash flow so you can allocate your resources smartly.
Human resources: With growth comes the need to identify and onboard talent. HR software can streamline this process by helping conduct initial screenings and using orientation and benefits tools to integrate new hires into the business.
Project and workflow management: As businesses become more complex, this software can help with processes, workflows and budgets to keep things on track and on time.
When searching for the right software, conduct a thorough search for reputable business management software vendors. Utilize business associations, trade groups and peers who can offer assistance on solutions specific to your industry.
As you consider business management software, a smallbusiness Regions Greenprint ® is a free, personalized financial health score and plan that gives you actionable next steps and helpful guidance.
Candace Thompson is the
Branch Manager at the
Norman Bridge Regions
Bank in Montgomery.
Regions Bank, member FDIC.
Thankfully, business management software can be a tool that’ s worth the investment. This type of software is designed to streamline, automate, and manage various aspects of company operations, helping business owners and their employees focus more on their core products and services.
Customer relations
management: Always-on customer service uses artificial intelligence, such as chatbots, to offer support 24 / 7. This frees up time and can expand the amount of helpful services available to your customers around the clock.
At Regions, our team of branch associates across the River Region can help people and small-business owners with tailored guidance. To learn more or to schedule a Regions Greenprint ®, stop by any Regions branch or visit regions. com to make an appointment.

Contact

CANDACE THOMPSON 334.387.3850

Candace. Thompson @ regions. com

60 CentrAL Inc!