This guide will show you how to automate venture capital operations with no code workflow automation platforms so you can focus on more of the activities that generate better returns in the future. 

Challenges of VC Workflows

Venture capital firms face several challenges when running their back-office operations. The biggest challenge is keeping track of everything. Venture Capitalists (VCs) need to have a clear overview of their portfolio companies and positions. In addition, they need to know where their portfolio companies are in terms of milestones, risk factors, and exits.

Another challenge is managing stakeholder relationships. Every venture capital firm needs to maintain good relationships with LPs, co-investors, and entrepreneurs. They need to develop and manage a database of potential investors. VCs also deal with the administrative side, such as human resources and IT.

VCs must also stay compliant with all applicable laws and regulations. This can be a challenge, as the regulatory environment is constantly changing. Therefore, VCs need to be up-to-date on all relevant rules and regulations to do their due diligence and avoid potential problems.

What is no code workflow automation?

No code automation can help will all of these challenges. VC operations and VC CRM can be overhauled or made more efficient with no code workflow automation. 

Workflow automation is the process of automating repetitive tasks to improve efficiency and productivity. In the past, workflow automation required coding skills and teams from silicon valley to create and implement automated tasks either from scratch or by putting in place a tech stack of multiple SaaS platforms. However, recent advancements have made it possible to automate workflow processes without coding knowledge or single-purpose SaaS platforms. 

No code workflow automation can benefit firms that don't have the time or resources to invest in developmment teams to implement automation initiatives. There are many different no code workflow automation platforms available, each with its unique features and capabilities. 

Examples of Popular No Code Platforms

All of the platforms spotlit below are intuitive. To become a user, you don't need to know anything about robotics or the latest developments in artificial intelligence. The technologies offer solutions that may seem like they're from the future, but soon, they will be industry standards.

Airtable

Airtable is a workflow automation tool that allows users to create custom applications without coding. It is based on a spreadsheet structure, with each column representing a different data field. Airtable also offers templates, calendar views, and task management features. As a result, Airtable can be used for many tasks, from simple to-do lists to complex project management set-ups. 

Zapier

Zapier is a workflow automation tool that allows users to connect different apps and automates tasks between them. For example, you can use Zapier to automatically add new leads from a web form to your VC CRM or send a Slack message whenever someone mentions your company on Twitter. Zapier is easy to use and doesn't require any coding skills - you can set up a Zap (automation) in minutes without writing a single line of code.  

Customer.io

Customer.io is a customer workflow automation tool that enables firms to automate communications without code. It provides a visual designer for communication workflows like email sequences, so users can drag and drop a set of steps to create automated communications. Customer.io also offers a no-code API, so users can extend the tool to fit their specific needs. 

Stacker

Stacker integrates with top platforms like Airtable to improve the user experience and make data management more effortless. Stacker can be used for various tasks, including data entry, email marketing, lead generation, and customer support. It has a wide range of integrations with other tools and services, making it easy to connect Stacker with the rest of your workflow.‍

Benefits of No Code Workflow Automation and how it can help Venture Capital Firms win deals

The industry is focused on efficiency and productivity. As a result, VCs are always looking for ways to streamline their operations and get more done in less time. This is why no code workflow automation is so appealing.  

No code workflow automation allows firms to automate repetitive tasks and processes, freeing up their time to focus on more important investment-related matters.

There are many benefits of workflow automation software, including:

• Improved efficiency: By automating repetitive tasks, firms can improve their overall efficiency. This can lead to time and cost savings and improved productivity. In addition, Venture Capitalists can free up time for other activities by using no code workflow automation, such as networking and business development.
• Improved accuracy: Automated processes can help improve the accuracy of data entry and other tasks. This can lead to fewer errors and higher quality for your products or services.
• Increased stakeholder satisfaction: You can improve your 'customer experience' by automating time-consuming and error-prone tasks. This can lead to increased stakeholder satisfaction and loyalty.
• Improved decision making: Automated processes that centralize data can provide firms with valuable insights that can be used to make better investment and exit decisions. Seeing important market data and financial information in one place can help companies make better big-picture decisions, from investing to the day-to-day.
• Reduced back-office staff: VCs can avoid hiring additional staff or outsourcing work to third-party vendors by automating key processes.

No code workflow automation is a powerful tool that can significantly impact VC operations. VCs who embrace no code workflow automation will be well-positioned to improve their efficiency and productivity and ultimately drive better outcomes.

Tips on choosing the right workflow automation software for your Venture Capital firm

Knowing which combination of platforms is right for your business can be tough with so many workflow automation software options on the market. Here are a few tips to help you stay focused and choose the right no code workflow automation software for your needs:

Interview staff for tasks that require automation

Consider what types of tasks you need to automate by asking the people who do the work and manage day-to-day operations. This information gathering is a critical component of making decisions that will help you prioritize your options and choose platforms that offer the features you need today.

For example, if you want to automate your communications with stakeholders and investors, a platform like Customer.io might be a good choice. On the other hand, if you are looking to integrate some existing legacy systems, so they work together better, then Zapier is a good option.

Start research

To make the best decision, businesses should carefully research no code workflow automation platforms before starting a trial and investing time.  Once you know what you need to automate, take some time to explore your options about what tools in the market provide the best solution. Read reviews, look at their free templates, and compare pricing. Many services offer discounts that can make their platforms more attractive in the long term.

Contact vendors

Reach out to vendors directly for more information. The right workflow automation software should be easy to use and offer excellent customer support if you run into any issues.

Reach out via chat or email to vendors to make sure they are responsive and can answer all your questions. Many new no code solutions on the market are early stage startups, each with an enthusiastic team willing to help you understand the platform.

Start with one project

When you're first getting started with workflow automation, it's important not to be over ambitious. Automating a few simple processes first can help give an idea of which tools work well for your business and what they have in common so that when more complex tasks need doing later down the line, there is no ‘platform debt' from switching technologies all at once.

Diagram your workflow

Workflow diagrams are an essential tool for any no code workflow automation project. By mapping out the steps in your workflow, you can ensure that each task is completed in the correct order and all the necessary data is being collected properly. In addition, workflow diagrams can help you to identify bottlenecks and optimize your workflow. All companies struggle with workflow management, but identifying problem areas is a critical step toward finding solutions.

Consider outsourcing to a no code agency 

If you want to ramp up your automations quickly and don't want to spend the time learning the details of no code platforms, consider an agency with experience in implementing workflow diagrams and no code automations rapidly. These companies will give your team the increased functionality no code solutions provide while allowing them to stay focused and make less of a time investment learning new systems. 

What are some features of workflow automation software?

Workflow automation software can vary in terms of features, but some common features include:

• ‍Drag-and-drop interface: Many workflow automation tools offer a drag-and-drop interface, making it easy to create and edit processes.
• ‍Visual workflow builder: This feature allows you to visually create and edit your workflow processes to see how the process works before pushing it live.
• ‍Templates:  Look on the website to see if templates that meet your needs already exist.  Popular no code platforms should have a robust set of free and paid templates from which to choose.
• ‍Integrations: Look for a tool that offers integrations with other software you use, such as your CRM or accounting software.
• ‍API: A good workflow automation tool will offer an API, which allows you to connect the tool to other software and systems.

Conclusion

Workflow automation software can be a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes. By choosing the right software and using it effectively, you can streamline your business operations so you can focus on your portfolio.

When evaluating different options, it's important to consider the needs of your specific business. Start with a single project and scale up as you automate more tasks. With the right workflow automation software, you can take your firm to the next level.

ACE Workflow is a no code development agency that can work with you to automate any process your firm needs rapidly. Find out more about our Workflow Automation techniques here.