SKM Chartered Accountants was
formed seven years ago by Shamim Mahomed. A lot has changed during that time, from humble
beginnings of two computers and no staff, the practice is now
thriving and employs eight staff. Shamim attributes much of the
success to IRIS Software, he said "It
helped to shape the practice."
An IRIS Starter Pack
comprising Accounts Production, Personal Tax and Business Tax
programs was installed, which, with its 50 client limit is
specifically suited to start up practices. Shamim explains "The
traditional way of running an accountancy practice held no appeal
with all the typing up of accounts, the checking and the time spent
amending. I did not want to get bogged down and what sold IRIS to
me, was the inherent level of integration."
Shamim has systemised the day to day running of the practice,
with the help of IRIS, so that she can spend time with her clients.
Face to face contact and time spent providing advice is perceived
by clients as 'real value for money'. She says "Clients see the
production of Final Accounts as something accountants should do –
it is not perceived as anything of value, unlike advice."
The SKM philosophy is quite different to that of many
accountants but it is one that is helping to grow the practice at a
considerable rate. Shamim is constantly winning new business
through referral. She says "You can't beat a warm referral. Because
IRIS frees up my time, I am able to see a client almost
immediately. I aim to look after my existing clients and they
market for us."
