According to the UK government’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector study, globally strategic AI companies, including Amazon and Microsoft, have increased their UK footprint relative to other large, diversified AI companies.
The same study states that large professional services strategy and consulting firms have been increasing the size of their AI teams, contributing to notable uplifts in AI headcounts among larger diversified companies.
This growing focus on AI and automation is already transforming key sectors, including accounting.
Now, the rise of automation in accounting has brought both excitement and anxiety.
While many accountants are eager to see how technology can streamline their workloads, others feel uneasy.
Will automation replace jobs? How much control will they lose over daily tasks?
These concerns are completely natural, but the reality is far more empowering than it may seem.
Common Insecurities About Automation
Accountants often worry that automation might erode the skills they’ve spent years honing.
You might wonder whether automated systems will take over essential tasks, leaving you with little to do.
This insecurity is heightened by the notion that automation means losing control over the processes you’ve managed for so long.
But here’s the good news: automation isn’t about replacing accountants; it’s about putting them in the driving seat of more valuable and strategic work.
You decide what needs to be automated and how to make the most of the time saved.
You’re in Control
Automation doesn’t happen in a vacuum.
It’s a tool that accountant’s control, and the power lies in your hands to determine which areas should be automated.
By automating repetitive, manual tasks like data entry, invoice processing, and reconciliations, you’re freeing up time to focus on higher-value tasks that require human insight—tasks like strategic decision-making, financial analysis, and advising the business.
Moreover, accounting automation platforms like UniFi are highly customisable. You can tailor the platform to fit your processes and decide how far automation should go.
From setting approval workflows to integrating specific data capture functionality, it’s all about creating a system that works for you.
Spend Time on What Matters Most
Imagine a world where you spend less time on mundane administrative tasks and more time on activities that truly add value to your organisation.
This could include tasks such as enhancing corporate strategy, conducting in-depth financial forecasting, developing risk mitigation plans, and advising the C-suite on critical business initiatives based on real-time financial data.
Automation enables finance leaders to drive organisational growth, support mergers and acquisitions analysis, and strengthen governance and compliance oversight.
If you’re a middle manager or key influencer, automation may raise concerns about how your teams will adapt. It’s essential to reassure your team that automation won’t sideline their skills but will enable them to work smarter.
Encourage a culture of continuous improvement, where automation is seen as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat.
By embracing automation strategically, you can also enhance your role as a leader—allocating resources more effectively, making data-driven decisions faster, and guiding your team through a period of transformation.
Final Thoughts
Automation doesn’t have to be a source of fear.
Instead, see it as a powerful tool to enhance your accounting capabilities, streamline workflows, and free up your time for higher-value activities.
You are, and will always be, in control of how much and what to automate.
So, let go of the fear and embrace the future—you’re in the driving seat.
Want to see UniFi in action? Book a free demo now!