From disruptive technology to generational shifts, those of us in the accounting profession know we are in the midst of major transformation. While some firms are unwilling to accept and adapt to the imminent change, some are tackling the challenge head on by incorporating the latest trends into the way they do business.
Boomer Consulting, Inc. provides consulting services to hundreds of the highest performing CPA firms across the country. From technology to management consulting, they are guiding firms in minimizing dangers, capturing opportunities and optimizing strengths. During a recent interview with the Kansas Society of CPAs, the company was asked about emerging trends and their recent participation in the 2017 CPA Practice Advisor Thought Leaders Symposium.
“The biggest threat to the profession is an inability or unwillingness to change,” says Jim Boomer, CEO, Boomer Consulting, Inc. “There is much talk of compliance and transactional work becoming commoditized in the near future, and technologies are already in the market to make that happen. Yet, most firms simply haven’t felt enough pain to initiate meaningful change. Kodak and Blockbuster didn’t feel enough pain, until it was too late.”
With so many massive changes looming, forward-thinking firms are developing strategies to shift to a business advisory model, get comfortable with trends like blockchain technology, and find new ways to engage younger generations in the workforce. But, for the many firms out there who haven’t yet begun to incorporate these trends into the way they work, what advice does Boomer have?
“The best thing to do now is educate, educate, educate,” says Sandra Wiley, President, Boomer Consulting, Inc. “If you have not moved to the cloud yet, do it. If you are unsure what Artificial Intelligence (AI) really is and how it will affect your tax and audit compliance work, read about it. If you haven’t heard of blockchain or Bitcoin, do yourself a favor and watch the TED Talks of futurists like Don Tapscott or Bettina Warburg. Then, surround yourself with a community of the smartest people you know to get a head start on making the new world of AI and blockchain not only understandable but an exciting new strategic direction for your firm.”
The fact is that as time marches on, these trends become more of a threat than an opportunity. That’s why it’s critical that accounting professionals take note and build these developments into their firm’s strategy — and capitalize on the opportunities they bring.
“Change will be forced upon the profession much faster than a lot of people think, so it’s best to be an initiator of change rather than a victim,” says Boomer. “Strong leadership and mindset are the keys to maintaining relevance and making your organization future-ready.”
Sandra Wiley agrees.
“Change does not have to be scary; it can be your protective shield for an amazing future,” says Wiley. “The choice is yours. Embrace it and be prepared; ignore it and fall behind.”
Is your firm future-ready?
Has your firm adopted a strategy based on the trends that are affecting our profession? If so, I’d like to hear about it. Tell your story in the comments section below.
______________________________________________________________
ihttps://boomer.app.box.com/s/9dix17n2yvvwsnaigtg6uuimpjf1kikd
iihttp://www.boomer.com/blogpost/1330975/270454/Prepare-for-an-Exciting-World-of-Change
