Overnight, everything was scaled back to a minimum. Schools, kindergartens, shops and the like were closed. We too had to adapt our work quickly in order to respond appropriately and as fast as possible to the pandemic – something new for all of us.
Once again, and this time on a far larger scale, it proved a real advantage for us as a firm that we had moved with the times early on and tackled the topic of digitalisation.
Of course, our day-to-day work nevertheless had to be rethought and restructured to some extent.
On the one hand, we benefited from the fact that the technical prerequisites for working from home were already in place. Many staff members had previously worked from home to varying degrees, so home-office workstations were already set up and no major adjustment or preparation was required. On the other hand, we had already digitalised most processes in our firm, so paper documents are now almost the exception and the majority of materials are available digitally. This makes our work much more flexible, as there are no longer any documents or folders that need to be "lugged around." We can simply pack up our "computer" (we use so-called Surfaces) and work essentially from anywhere.
The fact that the workstation situation could be resolved so easily freed our minds for other, new matters. And there were – and still are – plenty of those. Numerous new technical challenges arose. Almost daily, new information was issued or decisions were taken. New challenges are not unusual in our profession. This time, however, everything was new and there was no prior experience or precedent to build upon. A simple look at the statute was no longer enough. Everything was somewhat "learning by doing."
Something that was also sorely missed during this time, and still falls short to some extent, is the exchange among colleagues. A quick brainstorm in passing has often helped us move forward and pointed us towards new approaches. Unfortunately, despite advanced digitalisation and lively email correspondence, this is something that could not really be replaced.
And of course, our clients also had plenty of question marks hanging over their heads.
Due to short-time work, VAT changes and various applications for bridging assistance and similar support, there were only a few clients who were not affected by the crisis in some way, although not everyone was affected across all areas, and some "only" enquired as a precaution, in order to prepare "in case." So this time we had a subject area into which we worked our way, in part, together with our clients, and tackled it that way.
Thanks to the technical prerequisites, broad access to digital media, and an active exchange and flow of information among ourselves and with our clients, we as a firm came through relatively unscathed and managed the new challenges well.
But even though we have certainly learned a great deal for the future and will take away valuable lessons, we naturally also hope that this remains a one-off experience and that everything slowly returns to normal. At present, unfortunately, there is no end in sight to the additional workload.
Stay healthy!
Yours, Lena Nolte
A note from the firm's management:
We would like to take this opportunity to express our very special thanks for the enormous commitment shown by all of our staff.
Every department has been more than heavily challenged in recent months and has given more than full commitment. It is in times of crisis like these that true team spirit shows itself, and we are very proud that this spirit is clearly working wonderfully in our firm.
A HUGE THANK YOU for the above-average commitment. And once "Corona" is behind us and circumstances allow, we look forward to an unforgettable company outing with all of you in Prague – because you have all more than earned it.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
What advantages does a digitalised firm offer during lockdown?
A largely digitalised firm can switch to home office at short notice, since documents are available electronically and staff can work independent of location. Paper files do not need to be transported, which creates flexibility. In addition, more capacity remains to focus on new technical challenges such as short-time work or bridging aid.
What professional challenges did the coronavirus pandemic bring for tax firms?
Firms had to familiarize themselves with new regulations, resolutions, and information almost daily, without being able to draw on prior experience. Topics such as short-time work, VAT changes, and applications for bridging aid affected nearly all clients. Much of it had to be handled on a 'learning by doing' basis.
Why is personal exchange difficult to replace when working from home?
Despite email and digital tools, working from home lacks the spontaneous brainstorming between colleagues in passing. Brief professional conversations among coworkers often lead to new solutions that electronic communication cannot fully replicate. This direct exchange is especially valuable when dealing with new or unclear topics.
How do clients benefit from a well-digitalized tax firm in times of crisis?
A digitally equipped firm remains operational even during lockdowns and can promptly support clients with short-time work, VAT changes, or applications for bridging aid. Digital communication channels and rapid information flow enable quick answers to questions. Clients and the firm work through new topics together.