future of accounting
The Future of Work

Future of Accounting: Emerging Trends & Technologies

May 13, 2024 Stefan van Duyvendijk

Accounting is the backbone of financial transparency and corporate governance, and the profession is undergoing a transformation driven by technological advancements and shifting market dynamics.

Understanding these changes is crucial for accounting professionals who want to maintain relevance and capitalize on new opportunities. This article explores the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of accounting and provides actionable insights to help you prosper in this rapidly changing environment.

9 Evolving Trends in Accounting

The accounting industry is changing rapidly, influenced by technology like automation and artificial intelligence (AI), new regulatory demands, and evolving client and employee expectations.

Here’s a quick look at nine accounting trends showing where the profession is headed.

Embrace Automation and AI

Automation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence are transforming accounting tasks that were traditionally time-consuming and prone to human error. From automated bookkeeping and bank reconciliations to AI-driven tax preparation and audit processes, these new technologies enhance efficiency and accuracy and give accountants more time to focus on higher-level, more strategic work.

A report by McKinsey suggests that by 2030, activities that account for up to 30% of hours worked across the U.S. economy could be automated. Despite this shift, consultants foresee AI enhancing how these professionals work rather than eliminating jobs. 

Integrating these tools into your workflows can help you eliminate routine data entry and repetitive tasks, improve efficiency, and remain competitive.

Continuous Learning with Digital Transformation

As digital technologies evolve, continuous learning is essential for accounting teams.

CPAs and other accounting professionals are used to staying up-to-date with tax laws, auditing standards, and financial regulations. Keeping up with the latest software, platforms, apps, and analytical tools is essential.

Maintaining your tech-savvy allows you to streamline processes, improve your organization’s efficiency, and offer higher-value accounting services.

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology received major buzz in the accounting profession a few years ago. That buzz has quieted somewhat—primarily due to blockchain’s association with cryptocurrency and the crashes and scandals that have shaken the crypto industry.

However, blockchain technology isn’t going away. Combined with recent developments in AI, it can bring unprecedented precision in asset management and transaction verification. This technology offers an immutable ledger, reducing fraud risks and ensuring a clear audit trail.

Understanding blockchain’s basics and its applications within financial contexts will prepare you for its integration into your existing systems and help you navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence

Data analytics and business intelligence are changing how accountants function, shifting their role from record-keeping to strategic advising.

Finance and accounting departments and accounting firms have always been a treasure trove of data, but until recently, the technology to assemble and analyze that data was prohibitively expensive for many organizations. That’s changing.

Data analysis and business intelligence tools have become more affordable in recent years. With access to tools that can analyze big data, you can help with forecasting, cash flow planning, managing risk, and increasing profitability. You can start by assessing what data your organization is collecting and what insights you can extract from that data.

Cloud-Based Accounting Software

Using cloud-based accounting software is key to taking full advantage of all of the trends outlined above because it can integrate with a wide range of other cloud-based systems and tools. These integrations allow data to flow seamlessly between different applications.

For example, cloud computing systems can integrate with customer relationship management (CRM) systems to sync customer data and streamline invoicing. It can also integrate with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management systems, project management tools, human resources information systems (HRIS), and more to provide a real-time, holistic view of an organization.

If your organization still uses on-premise accounting software, it’s time to evaluate cloud-based options and how they integrate with your existing systems.

Ethical and Sustainable Accounting

There is a growing trend towards ethical accounting practices and sustainability reporting, aligning financial decision-making with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

As more companies focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, they report on these activities and their impacts alongside financial information. For example, companies may disclose information about their energy consumption, waste management efforts, and fair labor practices. This holds companies accountable and informs investors and stakeholders about their commitment to ESG initiatives.

By developing frameworks that accurately track and report on ESG initiatives, accountants can help organizations build trust and credibility with investors, clients, and stakeholders.

Regulatory Compliance

Shifting regulatory standards have always shaped the accounting industry, and that trend will continue into the foreseeable future. New legislation, IRS guidance, and auditing standards will address blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, data privacy, cybersecurity, and other emerging issues.

As regulatory changes occur, compliance becomes more complex. It’s crucial to be proactive in understanding these changes to help ensure your accounting firm or the organizations you serve adhere to the latest standards.

Cybersecurity and Data Privacy

With the increased digitization of accounting processes, cybersecurity and data privacy have become paramount. It’s no longer a matter of “if” an organization will experience a cyberattack; it’s a matter of when, so accountants must prepare appropriately.

You can help with cybersecurity and data privacy by:

  • Familiarizing yourself with the language of cybersecurity and data governance to facilitate productive dialogue across the organization.
  • Collaborating with IT to ensure the proper internal controls are in place to detect and prevent cyber intrusions.
  • Ensuring all solution providers you work with employ data encryption, both during transmission and while data is at rest.
  • Have a well-defined incident response plan in place that outlines the steps to take when a breach occurs to mitigate damage and prevent further compromise of sensitive financial data.

Remote Work and Globalization

Remote work was a growing trend before the pandemic, but the concept of the workplace and how people work has undergone a radical transformation since 2020.

Technology allows collaboration across borders and time zones. This shift couldn’t come at a better time since the accounting industry faces a talent shortage, causing delays in financial reporting, errors in financial statements, and other compliance and accuracy issues.

With the right technology to support remote work, you can tap into a global talent pool to meet your organization’s talent needs.

Key Competencies for Accountants in the Evolving Business Landscape

To successfully navigate the future of accounting, accountants need to develop a blend of technical and soft skill sets.

It’s no longer enough to focus on mastering the tax code or generally accepted accounting standards (GAAP). Today’s accounting professionals must be tech-savvy strategic partners, offering advisory services to guide organizations toward financial success.

Some vital key competencies include:

  • Technological proficiency in process automation, AI, and data analytics tools
  • Communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with clients and colleagues
  • Strategic thinking on planning, risk management, and growth strategies
  • Adaptability to embrace economic, regulatory and technological shifts
  • Ethical judgment when handling sensitive financial data
  • Global mindsets and cultural awareness for operating in international markets

By understanding and adapting to these trends, you can position yourself as a strategic advisor who adds considerable value to your organization. Embrace these changes with enthusiasm and commitment to learning, ensuring that your skills and practices remain cutting-edge, and you’ll be ready for anything the future of accounting brings.