Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming accounting, from identifying record-keeping inaccuracies to forecasting future spending. Clients want to adopt it, and accounting firms want to make it available to them. However, they both require individuals who understand the technology and can assist in its implementation.

Accounting AI application has been developing for some time, but the pandemic has quickened its pace. Accounting professionals have to pivot and adapt to new modes of working, such as remote auditing customers and data exchange online. However, one of the most significant issues is the paucity of trained accountants who can deal with artificial intelligence systems.

According to a survey, 57% of chief financial officers (CFOs) seek AI and machine learning (ML) expertise in new employees. Gaining AI strengths is a smart approach to distinguish yourself from others if you're an accountant trying to future-proof your profession.

Role of AI in Accounting and Finance

Industry 4.0 is being shaped by new technologies in every sector with deft responses to the shifting demands of clients, suppliers, vendors, and partners. With automation, workers may do various routine tasks in between 80 and 90% less time than they used to. By lowering human errors, it also improves the output's quality.

AI has automated almost all accounting processes, including payroll, tax, banking, and audits, upending the accounting sector and bringing about a significant shift in how business is conducted.

• While ensuring transparency and auditability, AI also enhances output quality and productivity.

• AI opens up a wide range of possibilities and reduces the traditionally time-consuming tasks of the finance team, allowing them to consider additional potential possibilities for business growth.

• Accurate financial statement forecasting is made easier with AI. Finance experts may forecast future trends using machine learning (ML) and past data/records.

Robotic Process Automation, or simple RPA, which automates repeated tasks in company operations, is incredibly effective at doing routine tasks like document or data processing. The finance staff can avoid getting slowed down by non-value-added activities now that RPA is in place. They should instead concentrate more on assuming strategic and advising roles.

A few implementations of RPA and Intelligent Automation in the accounting industry are:

• AI generates reports in real-time by analyzing documents in real-time using computer vision and natural language processing. By providing information through such reports, the company is able to be proactive and alter course as needed.

• AI makes it possible to process and automate the validation of documents to improve internal accounting procedures including purchasing, purchase orders, invoicing, expense reports, accounts payable, and account receivables, among others.

• By monitoring the relevant documents and issuing warnings as needed, AI-enabled solutions facilitate audits and compliance with organizational, state, and federal requirements.

• To prevent revenue loss, ML systems scan through large amounts of data, spot possible fraud risks, and flag them for examination.

Challenges of Adopting AI in accounting

There is no question that an organization's stakeholders have recognized the benefits of using AI-powered systems and apps. But it also necessitates a change in the perspectives of those other than CFOs. It is imperative that those working in finance and accounting make the change and obtain the requisite training and skills.

The finance teams need to understand that, in large part because of AI and the crucial insights it produces, they are now empowered to contribute to new business ties, strengthen current ones, and work from a position of strength.

The sophistication of modern technology will only increase as it develops, giving accounting and finance access to more tools and systems. The swift adoption of innovative time- and money-saving techniques is facilitated by the rapid spread of digital transformation with AI and automation.

Finally, finance and accounting teams that include AI in their operations will be better equipped to evaluate massive amounts of data and detect patterns and trends. Even better, employees will be able to leverage cutting-edge technology and tools to accommodate varied working modes and geographies by automating regular operations.

How Accountants Can Stand Out Against AI

As beneficial as AI can be, many individuals are hesitant to embrace it because they are concerned that it would make them obsolete. Nonetheless, humans will always have advantages over AI ones. According to Accounting Today, the following are some ways you might differentiate yourself as an accountant in the face of AI.

Consulting and advising

Offering consulting and advising services is one of the best methods for accountants to differentiate themselves from AI. If a client needs advice, they will almost certainly prefer human intelligence over AI.

Learning How to Use Complex Software

AI cannot provide the ability to use sophisticated software. Although it is capable of performing some activities, it cannot do so on its own. Furthermore, a human eye is still necessary to guarantee that things are done correctly.

The Human Touch

Finally, one of the most important things you can do to distinguish yourself from AI is to stay personable and sympathetic. Regardless of how efficient AI is, most people prefer interacting with a living, breathing human who can comprehend and empathize with their needs and worries.

Conclusion

We are only at the beginning of AI and automation in accounting and finance. However, as technology advances, a growing number of tools and systems are becoming accessible in the field of accounting. Resisting these developments would make accountants fall behind those who benefit from the time and money savings and insights AI may offer.