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3 min read
July 20, 2025
Automating Invoice Processing: How One Business Saved 10+ Hours Monthly
A mid-sized distributor automated invoice processing using Make (Integromat) and QuickBooks, cutting manual errors by 90% and reclaiming over 10 hours each month. This workflow automation improved cash flow visibility and reduced costly mistakes.
By connecting Make (Integromat) with QuickBooks, the company eliminated manual data entry and automated invoice approvals. Flow Genius designed a custom workflow that routed invoices, synced records, and flagged discrepancies—delivering faster, more accurate accounting.
The Challenge
Manual invoice processing consumed hours each week and led to frequent errors. Staff spent up to 15 minutes per invoice entering data into QuickBooks, chasing approvals, and reconciling mismatches. According to the Institute of Finance & Management, 62% of businesses cite manual data entry as the top cause of invoice errors (IOFM, 2023). This distributor faced late payments, frustrated vendors, and a backlog of unprocessed invoices.
The Solution
Flow Genius implemented workflow automation using Make (Integromat) to connect the company’s email, document management, and QuickBooks accounts. Incoming invoices triggered automated workflows: data was extracted, validated, and entered into QuickBooks. Approvals were routed digitally, and discrepancies flagged for review.
This approach leveraged AI integration for document parsing, reducing human touchpoints and ensuring consistent data accuracy.
Implementation Steps
1. Analyzed the existing invoice process, mapping each manual step and identifying error-prone tasks. 2. Set up Make (Integromat) to monitor the company’s invoice inbox and extract invoice data using AI-powered OCR. 3. Configured automated workflows to validate invoice fields (vendor, amount, date) and check for duplicates. 4. Integrated Make (Integromat) with QuickBooks to auto-create draft bills and attach supporting documents. 5. Established approval routing: invoices above a set threshold triggered notifications to managers for digital sign-off. 6. Set up exception handling: flagged invoices with mismatches or missing data were routed to accounting for review. 7. Trained staff on the new automated workflow and provided documentation for troubleshooting. 8. Monitored performance and iterated the workflow for continuous improvement.
Results
The business reduced invoice processing time from 15 minutes to under 2 minutes per invoice, saving over 10 hours monthly across the team. Manual errors dropped by 90%, and late payments decreased by 70%. According to McKinsey (2024), companies automating finance processes see error rates fall by up to 80%. The improved workflow also provided real-time visibility into outstanding invoices, supporting better cash flow management.
Mini Case Study
Before automation, the distributor’s accounting team processed 40–50 invoices weekly, often missing early payment discounts due to delays. After Flow Genius deployed the Make (Integromat) and QuickBooks integration, the team reclaimed 10+ hours each month and captured $1,200 in early payment savings within the first quarter.
Key Takeaways + CTA
Automating invoice processing with Make (Integromat) and QuickBooks slashes manual work, reduces errors, and speeds up approvals. AI integration ensures data accuracy and compliance. To see how workflow automation can transform your back office, contact Flow Genius at https://flowgenius.ai.
FAQ
How does Make (Integromat) automate invoice processing? Make (Integromat) connects your email, document storage, and QuickBooks, automating data extraction, validation, and entry for each invoice.
What are the main benefits of automating invoices? Automation saves time, reduces manual errors, speeds up approvals, and improves cash flow visibility.
Is this solution suitable for small businesses? Yes—workflow automation with Make (Integromat) and QuickBooks scales for businesses of any size and can be tailored to your process.
How quickly can automation be implemented? Most businesses see results in 2–4 weeks, depending on process complexity and training needs. Flow Genius handles setup and support throughout.
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