How do I streamline approval processes in my company?

Streamlining approval processes is a prime candidate for automation and can significantly boost efficiency. Here's how:
1. Map Current Approval Process: Document every step, stakeholder, and bottleneck in your existing manual approval process.
2. Identify Bottlenecks and Delays: Pinpoint where approvals get stuck or take too long.
3. Digitize Forms: Convert paper-based or email-based approval requests into online forms using a workflow automation platform.
4. Automate Routing Logic: Set up rules to automatically route approval requests to the right person or department based on conditions (e.g., amount, department, request type).
5. Implement Parallel Approvals: For multiple approvers, allow approvals to happen concurrently instead of sequentially when appropriate.
6. Set Up Escalations and Reminders: Configure automatic reminders for overdue approvals and escalate requests after a defined time.
7. Provide Real-time Visibility: Use dashboards to track the status of all approval requests.
8. Integrate with Relevant Systems: Connect your approval workflow with HR, finance, or CRM systems to pull necessary data.
9. Mobile Accessibility: Enable approvals on the go via mobile devices.