Samenvatting

This research investigates the absence of automation in the accounting process for SumUp’s Cash Advance service and evaluates whether automation is a feasible, beneficial, and strategic solution. The process, which was initially observed to be fully manual, raised concerns regarding operational inefficiency, increased error risk, and recurring workload strain on the Finance team. To explore the root causes and assess the potential for structured automation, the study employed a single-case study methodology (Yin, 2017), combining secondary literature with primary data from internal stakeholders and an external expert.

Data was collected through five structured interviews- two with Finance (FGL) professionals, two with ERP specialists, and one with an independent automation expert, and analyzed thematically using the SAFe criteria of suitability, feasibility, and acceptability. Triangulation across these data sources enabled validation of findings from multiple perspectives. Literature from PwC, Deloitte, IFAC, and McKinsey provided benchmarks for automation benefits, ERP challenges, and governance frameworks.

The findings reveal that while SAP is technically capable of supporting automation, implementation has been stalled due to internal resource limitations and unclear ownership. All sources confirmed the need for an automation taskforce to manage governance and delivery. The research concludes that automation is not only feasible but strategically appropriate, with a projected return on investment within two years. These findings form the basis for the accompanying Professional Product, which outlines the actionable implementation plan.