Back to School: How accounting teams can maximize Q3 productivity

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As summer winds down and the back-to-school season begins, accounting teams are gearing up for a crucial period in their annual cycle.

The third quarter presents a unique opportunity to tackle special projects, clean up lingering tasks, and prepare for the year-end rush. Here's how savvy accounting professionals can make the most of Q3 to set themselves up for success.

FOCUSING ON SPECIAL PROJECTS

Q3 is often the ideal time to address those important but non-urgent projects that have been sitting on the back burner. With year-end closing still a few months away, teams have the bandwidth to dive into initiatives that can improve processes, enhance reporting, or implement new systems. Consider:

  1. Updating accounting software or exploring new tech solutions
  2. Conducting a thorough review of internal controls
  3. Developing or refining financial forecasting models

CLEARING THE DECKS: TRANSACTION CLEAN-UP

Before the year-end crunch hits, use Q3 to ensure your transactional house is in order:

  • Reconcile all accounts thoroughly
  • Clear out old or unresolved items in suspense accounts
  • Review and update vendor files and contracts
  • Ensure all recurring transactions are properly set up and accurate

CRANKING OUT FINAL PROJECTS

As Q4 approaches, it's time to wrap up any ongoing projects:

  • Finalize any system implementations or upgrades
  • Complete any planned process improvements
  • Finish any special analyses or reports requested by management

THE Q3 ACCOUNTING CHECKLIST

To stay on track, consider creating a Q3 checklist that includes:

✓ Review year-to-date performance against budget

✓ Update cash flow projections

✓ Conduct a mid-year tax review

✓ Assess inventory levels and adjust if necessary

✓ Review depreciation schedules

✓ Update fixed asset registers

PREPARING FOR A SMOOTH Q4 AND YEAR-END

By focusing on these areas during Q3, accounting teams can position themselves for a more manageable Q4 and year-end process. This proactive approach allows for:

  • More time to focus on critical year-end tasks
  • Reduced stress and overtime during the closing period
  • Improved accuracy in financial reporting
  • Better responsiveness to auditor requests

As we settle into the rhythm of fall, take this opportunity to reassess your team's priorities and workload. By making the most of Q3, you can ensure that when the year-end rush arrives, your team is prepared, organized, and ready to tackle the challenges ahead with confidence.

At CX, we understand the critical nature of Q3 for accounting teams and offer specialized interim professionals to support your initiatives. Whether you need help clearing transactional backlogs, leading special projects, or preparing for year-end, our seasoned experts can seamlessly integrate with your team to ensure you meet your Q3 goals and set a strong foundation for a successful year-end close.