A First Look at WorkflowMAX’s MCP Server (Early Access)
We take a first look at WorkflowMAX’s brand new MCP Server, which is currently in early access (As of publishing). We jump into: If you’d like more information on WorkflowMAX’s MCP server or would like to chat about deploying it into your business, drop me a line
What Practices That Stay Profitable Do Differently
TL;DR: Profitable architecture practices don’t manage projects differently on the design side. They manage them differently commercially. That means fee proposals built from real stage-level delivery data; time tracked by RIBA stage so overruns are visible early; a process for capturing and billing variations before they become write-offs; and live WIP visibility so the practice […]
Time Tracking Software for Architects: What to Look for Before You Buy
TL;DR: Most time tracking tools were built for agencies and freelancers, not architecture practices. For UK firms, the requirements are different: you need time logged by RIBA stage, not just by project; you need that data to flow into your accounting platform without manual rekeying; and you need WIP and project profitability visible before a […]
Capacity Planning for Architecture Practices: The Utilisation Rate Trap
TL;DR: Capacity planning is how a practice works out how much client work its team can realistically take on, and who should do it. Most practices plan against 7–8 billable hours per person per day. The RIBA’s own benchmarking shows partners and directors spend less than half their time on billable work. Get that number […]
The Best Software Stack for Architecture Practices in 2026
TL;DR: The most effective software for architects isn’t a single platform. It’s a connected stack: a project management tool as your operational hub, Xero as the financial backbone, and a layer of specialist apps handling debtor management, reporting, supplier bills, and document storage. This post breaks down each layer, which tools to consider, and how […]
App Comparison – Xero Proposal Tools
Our latest App Comparison, in collaboration with XU Magazine, is now live. Issue 46 dives into the world of Xero Proposal Tools, with a deep look at the features of Ignition, Socket, and Quotient. We delve into multiple categories to give you an unbiased view of each reporting app, including: Proposal Templates & Customisability Client Experience Payments Analytics […]
You don’t need to be a Fintech to run like one: How to level up your finance function
Still wrestling with invoices, reconciling spreadsheets, and late-night number crunching to pay bills or close the month? It doesn’t have to be that way. Focus on two things: harnessing powerful Fintech tools like Xero to manage your money, check balances, and approve payments instantly, and adopting the mindset that drives their success. Because the Fintech […]
Project Management in the Xero Ecosystem: What to Look For
Choosing the right Xero project management app isn’t just about features; it’s about how it can fit into your business. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for, the most popular options, and how to make the best choice for your business. At Hyphen Digital, we write about Xero-connected apps to help […]
Cash Flow Forecasting with Xero: Which App Is Right for You?
Cash is the lifeblood of every business. Yet for many SME owners, understanding where cash is coming from and where it’s going feels like a guessing game. A late payment, an unexpected tax bill, or a seasonal dip in sales can cause sleepless nights. Xero gives you visibility of your finances today, but when it […]
Xerocon 2025: What Xero’s New Features Mean for Your Business
At this year’s Xerocon in Brisbane, Xero unveiled a wave of updates that will reshape how accountants, bookkeepers, and business owners use the platform. While product announcements can sometimes feel abstract, these updates are designed to tackle real-world challenges: saving time, reducing manual work, and making it easier to deliver meaningful advice to clients. Let’s […]