How Do I Standardize Approval Workflows Across the Organization?

Initial Situation

In a company with 500 employees, orders over €200 require approval. The process runs via email: orderer sends request, supervisor approves (or forgets). Average approval time: 3.2 days. When approver is absent: up to 2 weeks. Urgent needs are often ordered without approval. 40% of approvals happen retroactively – a compliance risk.

Your Solution with simple system

1. Approval Processes: Digital workflows replace email chains
2. Mobile Approval: Release via smartphone in 30 seconds
3. Deputy Rules: Automatic forwarding during absence
4. Timeout Escalation: Automatic escalation to next level after 24h
5. Order Value Limits: Clear approval thresholds instead of blanket €200 rule

Result: Approval time drops from 3.2 days to an average of 3 hours. No more retroactive approvals.

Your Benefit

• Time savings: 3.2 days → 3 hours approval duration = 1,160 waiting days/year eliminated
• EBIT impact: +€6,800/year (process cost reduction: €8 instead of €25 × 400 approvals) + 100% compliance