With the advent of the age of computers, many businesses have been using the internet to send their clients and customers emails with bills and payment requests. However, sending invoices in the format of PDF or Word files is not the same as electronic invoicing. Setting up an electronic invoicing system would mean that businesses and clients can directly exchange documents and information online, via an access points. Documents such as invoices are automatically generated with the correct sales and customer details by the system. These are then sent directly to the concerned customer or client, processed and cross-checked automatically and also archived digitally. In Norway, an EHF faktura is the standard format expected of those making use of electronic invoicing solutions, particularly where transactions and trade with the public sector are concerned. This is because there are many benefits and advantages of using such standardized invoicing formats and systems. The following are three reasons why electronic invoices are gaining popularity and importance:
Save on paper bills
Making use of paper invoices and documents involves high costs where the use of paper, ink, postage, etc, is concerned. Not only is reducing the use of paper good for the environment, but also helps businesses run operations more efficiently. This is because a lot of time is taken in creating, processing and archiving paper documents and invoices. In fact, even where general paper messages and mails are concerned, digitizing these where exchanges between public enterprises are concerned is estimated to save around 323 million kroner in 10 years (Difi.no, “LØSNING FOR MELDINGSUTVEKSLING I OFFENTLIG SECTOR”, 2015).
Better for ecommerce
Particularly for organizations and businesses that operate ecommerce websites or portals, making use of the standard EHF faktura format can be very beneficial. Easy and immediate transactions are absolutely essential for successful ecommerce ventures. Also, giving customers and clients the option to make payments via different modes would help ensure more people engage with the ecommerce platform.
Steer clear of time thieves
Time thieves in management and business studies are all those processes, scenarios, tasks, elements, practices, etc, that take longer than they should or that repeatedly interrupt the smooth flow of work. This would mean that a lot of time is lost in taking care of business and finance matters in an inefficient manner (Difi.no, “HVA ER EN TIDSTYV?”, 2016). Where e-invoicing with the right format is concerned, this is most apt as the manual entry of billing data, processing, printing, mailing, etc, can take a lot of time and effort. There is also a high chance of errors with manual processes. However, using e-invoicing can help businesses cut on all these sources of time wastage and better manage their daily operations. For businesses that would like help with EHF and related business document formats, getting in touch with e-invoicing experts can be a good idea. One company that businesses can contact for such services in Norway is Basware. More information can be found on their website.
