We are all used to AI cropping up in almost every technological discussion in our sector, and with that often comes a barrage of technical terms.
As if it isn’t hard enough to keep up with a rate of change we’ve never seen before, we are inundated with phrases such as RPA, Machine Learning, and, most recently, MCP. While these terms can offer insights into the technology driving our industry, the focus should not be on mastering what they mean or feeling the need to adopt them without good reason, but rather on using tools that demonstrate progress in your firm’s operations, efficiency, profitability, and stakeholder satisfaction.
In our experience, leading with the solution is not the quickest way to improve the firm. Practitioners are often tempted by features they don’t need, functions they rarely use, or buzzwords they believe everyone else is adopting.
Rather than chasing the latest AI-labelled products, it is vital to work with a problem-led mindset that seeks to address the pressing challenges your firm faces every day.
Many of our clients are already taking the wise approach of getting back to basics. For instance, ensuring that all bank feeds are set up correctly and that critical integrations – such as auto-publish features within their data input software – are fully operational before seeking out new technology. Making the best use of what you already have will set you and your team up for success with any product you adopt now and in the future.
This back-to-basics strategy is proving invaluable, as it not only optimises routine functions but also serves as the foundation upon which more advanced AI applications can be successfully layered.
If you are thinking ahead, that’s great. Our advice to prepare for all the changes on the way is simple: organisation.
Soon you will be using AI as a ‘digital employee’ with the introduction of agents, so having data in an easy-to-find place is essential. Think of it as introducing a new starter – you’d ensure they knew their way around your systems.
It is also imperative to build habits within your team and your client base to make this possible – whether it’s the way documents are labelled or the frequency with which data is brought in and updated – to enable you to utilise advanced tools to autonomously process or report on that information.
Collaborating with your team on both pre-technology and post-technology implementation reviews not only boosts morale but also provides clear metrics of success. We have seen firsthand how one firm, after introducing personal tax data inputting software, was able to transition to a four-day working week. This progressive approach to technology adoption has had a positive ripple effect on recruitment and talent retention – placing them ahead in a competitive market and addressing other issues we face as a profession.
Start thinking about technology in conjunction with the specific challenges of your firm. This will drive efficiency and competitive advantage without getting lost in unnecessary technological jargon.
Meet the 20:20 Innovation team on stand 830 at Accountex London, taking place at Excel London on the 14-15 May, 2025.
