Digitalization is fundamentally changing accounting. Processes are becoming leaner and more efficient, while specialists increasingly need new digital skills to master the challenges of digitalization.
Our study "Digitalization in accounting" sheds light on the digital transformation in accounting and uses case studies and expert interviews to show how companies are using AI and other technologies.
Artificial intelligence in accounting: High expectations - remarkable results
In the short term, AI applications lead to significant time savings in transactional processes for 49% of the companies surveyed. In the medium term, however, 59% focus on cost reductions and quality improvements. Satisfaction with the use of AI is high: 71% of those surveyed believe that their expectations have been met, and 5% have even been exceeded.
Mathias Winkler
Partner, Performance & Strategy, Enterprise Performance
KPMG AG Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft
The biggest hurdles with AI: integration and expertise
The study shows that integration complexity and a lack of specialist knowledge are the biggest hurdles to the introduction of AI. Investments in employee training and the optimization of technical interfaces are therefore essential in order to fully exploit the potential of AI.
Technologien wie Cloud und Robotic Process Automation: Treiber der digitalen Transformation im Rechnungswesen
In addition to AI, other technologies are also driving digitalization in accounting. Cloud solutions are now established at 56% of companies, while learning systems are playing an increasingly important role at 28%.
In addition, 36% rely on in-memory databases and 28% on robotic process automation. These systems not only help with the automation of routine tasks, but also open up new possibilities in data analysis and knowledge management.
Target Operating Model: How new structures and roles are transforming finance departments
However, digital change is not just limited to technologies. Organizational structures and working methods in finance departments are also changing fundamentally. According to the study, 79% of respondents see the optimization of processes and workflows as one of the key results of digitalization. At the same time, 59% state that their organizational structures have evolved significantly.
New roles such as Finance Data Scientist and Finance Quality Manager are gaining in importance - 68% of companies have already introduced or are planning to introduce such positions.
The study is based on assessments by accounting experts
261 people, mainly CFOs and heads of accounting, took part in the survey. The companies in which these people work are active in various market segments and 57% of them come from Germany, 39% from Austria and 4% from Switzerland.
For the complete results and analysis, you can download the study here.
