Staying up-to-date with technology is ESSENTIAL for ANY accounting firm!
With everything going digital, online or in the cloud, accounting firms are feeling an increasing need to become ‘tech-savvy’. Staying Up and Standing Out is the key to improving your importance to clients in the ever-increasing competitive market.
The accounting industry and profession are at one of those mega-inflection points concerning technology. There is no escaping the significant impact new and emerging technology has on accounting professional roles. The technology topics of interest to CPAs reflect the profession's evolving landscape, focusing on areas that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and strategic decision-making.
Tech topics of interest for the profession include:
Key technology topics that are capturing the attention of CPAs are cloud computing; artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML); Blockchain technology; robotic process automation (RPA); regulatory technology; financial planning and analysis (FP&A); digital payments and FinTech; and sustainability and ESG reporting.
Although more indirect, the Internet of Things (IoT) impacts CPAs through the vast amounts of data generated by connected devices. This data can influence financial decision-making, operational efficiencies, and strategic planning.
Technology-focused “actionable intelligence” you will find at CPA Trendlines
Here’s a detailed summary of the most recent articles listed under the Tech and Fintech section of CPA Trendlines:
Author CPA Trendlines Research
Summary Accountants highlight capital access, technology limitations, and government regulation as the biggest threats to businesses in the near future. Survey feedback also revealed a wide range of additional concerns from practitioners.
PRO Membership Required: Yes
Author CPA Trendlines Research
Summary Economic issues have shifted, with tariffs and inflation becoming top concerns over tech. Accountants must help clients adapt to cost pressures and fast-changing regulatory landscapes, according to new survey findings.
PRO Membership Required: Yes
Author Art Werner
Summary Post-filing season is the perfect time to go beyond compliance. Art Werner recommends CPAs use client return reviews to uncover planning opportunities, thereby transitioning into a more strategic advisory role.
PRO Membership Required: No
Author Beth Bellor
Summary Despite fewer returns being processed, total refund volume has increased by 4% over the previous year. IRS data suggests evolving taxpayer behavior and changes in filing dynamics in the 2025 tax season.
PRO Membership Required: Yes
Author CPA Trendlines Research
Summary Most firms are reporting healthy gains in revenue, client count, and profits, though many fell short of earlier growth forecasts. Economic uncertainty has led to more cautious optimism among tax practitioners.
PRO Membership Required: Yes
Author CPA Trendlines Research
Summary Unexpected tech glitches and economic curveballs created a messy close to the 2025 tax season. Many firms struggled with an overwhelming surge of late clients, pushing workflows to the brink.
PRO Membership Required: Yes