Top 5 Trends in Client Accounting and Advisory Services Right Now

April 10, 2023

Thanks to advances in technology, the accounting industry is undergoing a significant transformation that is likely to impact virtually every industry. Companies that want to stay ahead of the curve should be aware of these changes and what they mean for the bottom line.

While artificial intelligence (AI) is currently stealing the spotlight in the news, it’s just one of several interrelated trends that are making the financial sector more efficient, streamlined, and profitable than ever before. In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 trends in accounting client accounting and advisory services for 2023 that businesses need to know about.

1. Reducing Errors and Saving Time: AI & Automation

Automation can streamline many routine accounting and bookkeeping tasks, such as data entry, invoicing, and compliance work, all while reducing errors and saving time. AI takes this a step further with its ability to compile and sort through massive quantities of data quickly. It allows the system to uncover trends that can give your company an advantage over competitors and identify patterns and anomalies that can help you make more accurate predictions.

This better, faster insight into financial data puts accountants in a stronger position to provide their clients with timely, expert advice that supports their business strategy.

2. Instant Insights: Real-time Accounting for a More Agile Response

Real-time accounting, the ability to process and access up-to-date date financial information anytime, anywhere, is gaining traction and is expected to become even more popular in 2023. Traditionally, businesses have had to wait until the end of the month to consolidate all their data before seeing if they were operating at a profit or a loss. Now, with the help of cloud-based computing and automation, they have access to accurate, up-to-the-minute information. In many cases, the month-end close is now a zero-day close. This gives business owners the ability to make agile, data-based decisions, identify problems, and respond efficiently to changes in the market.

3. Revolutionizing Collaboration: The Power of Cloud-Based Technology and the Ecosystem

These days, the cloud offers businesses a way to access their data from anywhere and at any time, a boon in an increasingly remote world. This enhances collaboration among team members and simplifies real-time financial management, a far cry from the days of wading through filing cabinets, scheduling in-person appointments, and installing software updates. Additionally, in most cases, open APIs enable businesses to connect third-party software with their systems, allowing them to expand their core business system.

4. Data Analytics: Deeper Insights, New Opportunities

Thanks to the technological advances above, financial professionals now have an immense amount of data at their fingertips. Accountants specializing in data analytics can use this information to examine marketing trends, customer behavior, and more. At the same time, an increasing number of software services enable users to visualize and refine multiple streams of big data for granular insights into all areas of finance and create presentations to share with management teams. This allows companies to make better-informed decisions, find fresh growth opportunities, anticipate trends, and make accurate predictions.

5. Essential Skills: People Still Matter

For all the insights and efficiency that technology can provide, it can’t replace human interaction. For people in accounting services, the ability to communicate clearly and think critically and creatively are more crucial than ever. Financial professionals need to take the time to understand their client’s future goals and overall strategy to craft and present the customized financial reports that will help them get there. Above all, accountants must be able to function as part of a team, collaborating and helping their colleagues and clients achieve their goals.

It’s Not Just About the Numbers

Artificial intelligence, automation, cloud-based technology, and real-time financial systems are changing how accountants, CPAs, and financial professionals work. But while technology can provide increased speed, efficiency, and detail, it can never replace the human touch. Wiss’s experienced advisors combine technical know-how with the ability to analyze data, communicate clearly, and think outside the box to find new ways to support your business strategy. Let us handle your financial management needs so you can focus on your business.

Take the first step towards financial success by booking a free consultation with our Client Accounting and Advisory Services team today.