Scaling Growth With Automation and Efficiency with Payroll Software
For nine months, APS searched for a payroll solution that could handle its growing client base while simplifying day-to-day operations. They needed a platform that was intuitive for clients, reduced manual work, and scaled without adding headcount. "Since switching to IRIS Payroll, APS has streamlined operations, scaled faster and improved work-life balance–all while serving more clients. We got our lives back,”
Based in Lubbock, Texas, Applied Payroll Solutions (APS) provides comprehensive payroll services to businesses of all sizes. As demand for payroll services grew, APS needed a more scalable, efficient, and user-friendly solution to keep pace.
By implementing a feature-rich, modern payroll system, APS improved efficiency and transformed how it worked. It gave its staff a better work-life balance and set the stage for unprecedented growth.
The Problem
Managing payroll inefficiencies at scale
APS’s previous payroll system was too manual, too time-consuming, and too restrictive. Processing payroll required significant staff effort, and clients had no direct access because the system was too complex.
“It wasn’t scalable,” explains CEO Martin Nowlin. “We did everything, from A to Z. We had to make pay rate changes. We had to make direct deposits. The client had no access to the software because it was too technical.”
Nowlin knew APS needed a modern payroll solution that could:
- Automate manual processes to save time
- Empower clients with an intuitive, self-service experience
- Scale with business growth without increasing staff workload
Solution
Automating processes for seamless growth
For nine months, APS searched for a payroll solution that could handle its growing client base while simplifying day-to-day operations. They needed a platform that was intuitive for clients, reduced manual work, and scaled without adding headcount.
When they discovered IRIS Payroll, they knew they had found the right fit. Clients could process payroll easily. APS could handle even the most complex cases—without the headaches.
“It was a no-brainer,” says Martin. “We immediately knew our clients could easily access and process their payroll.”
With IRIS Payroll, APS could finally shift away from repetitive tasks, give their clients more control, and free up their team to focus on growth, strategy, and service.
Results
More clients, less work, better balance
Since switching to IRIS Payroll, APS has streamlined operations, scaled faster and improved work-life balance–all while serving more clients.
“We got our lives back,” says Nowlin.
For the first time since launching the business, APS staff work regular hours instead of being stuck in endless payroll cycles. With automation handling the heavy lifting, the change was transformational:
- Less manual work, more efficiency – Automation eliminated repetitive tasks, freeing up time.
- Scalable growth – When a large local firm with 900+ clients closed, APS onboarded 100 new clients overnight—without missing a beat.
- Stronger client relationships – With fewer admin burdens, APS can now engage proactively with clients and offer more personalized service.
- Faster reporting, fewer errors – Quarterly reports that once took a month now wrap up by the 10th day, even with twice as many clients.
“If someone had asked just nine months ago whether we could add another 100 clients in the next 10 months, I’d have said no,” says Nowlin. “Growth of any amount just wasn’t scalable. Now, that growth engine has started running and we’re saying, ‘Alright, let’s go get another 100 clients.’”
Looking Ahead
With a more efficient, scalable payroll system, APS is no longer limited by time-consuming processes or manual workarounds. The team can focus on delivering exceptional service, growing their client base, and strengthening relationships.
As APS continues to expand, it now has the freedom to take on new clients without the fear of overextending its team. Instead of scrambling to meet deadlines, it has the time and confidence to ask, “How can we better serve our clients?” and make strategic decisions that move the business forward.
With the right technology in place, APS can scale on their terms—ensuring that every client, no matter their size, gets the expert payroll support they need.
Ready to see what IRIS Payroll can do for your firm?
Get in touch with our payroll experts today.
