Auto Reconciliation

AI and ML Unlocking New Potential in Auto Reconciliations

Transform Auto Reconciliation with Breakthrough AI and ML

In this digital age, forward-looking organizations are adopting cutting-edge technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), on a continuous basis. AI and ML and other technologies, including Auto Reconciliation, are not just trends; they are driving transformative changes. According to Mckinsey’s The State of AI in 2021 report, 56% of businesses are actively working to incorporate AI into various business functions, including finance, operations, marketing, and others.

AI and ML

Understanding of AI and ML

As AI and ML are in their infancy stages, people often confuse them as being the same. AI is a technology that uses math and logic to simulate computers to mimic human behavior. In contrast, ML is the application of AI through mathematical models to enable continuous learning and improvement in computers. For instance, Google Assistant is an example of AI and Google’s Search Algorithm is an ML.

AI and ML benefit not only the IT operations of companies but also prove advantageous in all other business operations, including accounting, finance, supply chains, etc.

 

The Urgent need for AI and ML in Finance Automation

One of the most monotonous and tedious tasks in accounting is reconciliations. Traditional reconciliation involves the collection of ledgers manually by the accounts team & reconciliation with the support of excel & spreadsheet formulas. Imagine the following scenario

  • Lacs of line items
  • Large vendor base also compel to undertake separate GST reconcile, therefore Indirect Tax team also needs to be involved
  • TDS applicability for all the transactions can lead to separate reconciliation of TDS receivable or 26AS
  • Payment and/or receipts are being recorded on adhoc basis.

AI and ML can enable the system to process various complex transactions into simple rules, offering customization opportunities within seconds. For example, TDS and GST reconciliations can be simplify by coding computers to learn the method of identification and application of different rates without any human intervention.

AI and ML will not only save employees time and effort but also lower the scope of human errors. According to Accenture’s CFO Reimagined, automation can cover a substantial 60-80% of accounting activities. Moreover, automation will greatly boost data integrity, preventing significant unidentified differences and freeing up employee hours for analysis. AI and ML also offer automated communication, reconciliation, and early loss identification, expediting settlements.

Firmway: Pioneering Auto Reconciliation with AI and ML

Firmway is one such SaaS-based interactive platform that simplifies reconciliations. It automates all the steps involved in reconciliations (communication with third parties, obtaining accounting records, reconciling, and generating summary reports) and strives for minimal human intervention. Businesses are rapidly transforming with technology, but there is still room for improvement, especially in accounting and reconciliations. Anticipating a revolution in the world driven by artificial intelligence and machine learning, Firmway plans to wholeheartedly embrace AI and ML to technologically advance accounting and auditing in the coming years. By effectively utilizing AI and ML, it aims to streamline and expedite reconciliation processes, ultimately saving users time and money. Moreover, it is diligently developing tech-savvy solutions for clients, actively putting innovations to work.

Finance Operations

Streamline Finance Operations with CFO Leadership

Elevating CFO Leadership in Finance Operations Integration

As the role of the CFO continues to evolve, consequently, finance leaders are increasingly taking on a more strategic role in their organizations. The shift is important considering the fact that CFOs are core to the finance of any organization. The strategic role includes not only managing the financial health of the company but also driving operational improvements, delivering business growth, and integrating finance ops. One of the key ways that CFOs can achieve these goals is through an integrated finance operations transformation approach.

Adopting Integrated Finance Operations Transformation Approach

An integrated finance operations transformation involves taking a holistic view of the finance function and identifying key areas for improvement. Additionally, the improvements can include streamlining processes, implementing new technologies, and automating manual tasks. By aligning finance operations with business goals and objectives, CFOs can drive significant value for their organizations. But how can an organization adopt an integrated finance operations transformation approach?

Finance Operations

Key Steps for Integrating Finance Operations

The following are some of the key steps that CFOs can take to implement an integrated finance operations transformation in their organization:

1. Identify Areas For Improvement:

The first step in any transformation is to assess the current state of operations. Before bringing transformation, we need to know the current status and lacunas. This includes identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas where the finance function is not in tandem with business objectives.

2. Develop A Roadmap:

Once areas for improvement have been identified, CFOs should develop a roadmap for transformation. This step involves strategizing the future path. This should include clear goals, timelines, and metrics for measuring progress.

3. Implement New Technologies:

Adapting latest technologies is more of a necessity than a choice. One of the key ways to drive operational improvements is by implementing new technologies. Additionally, these technologies can include automated accounting systems, adopting cloud-based solutions, or implementing business intelligence tools.

4. Streamline Processes:

Another key aspect of an integrated finance operations transformation is streamlining the existing processes within the organization. This can include standardizing processes across the organization, eliminating unnecessary steps, and implementing process automation wherever appropriate.

5. Enhance Reporting And Analysis:

Top-level executives are often disassociated from ground-level operations. However, reporting is the way through which crucial information reaches top executives in any organization. Therefore, improving the quality and timeliness of financial reporting and analysis is critical for CFOs to drive business growth. This can involve implementing new reporting systems, adopting advanced analytics techniques, and enhancing data quality.

In a Nutshell: Integrating Finance Ops for Strategic Growth

By following these steps, CFOs can drive significant improvements in finance operations and position their organizations for success. An integrated finance operations transformation approach is key for CFOs who want to step out of their conventional roles and take a more strategic role in their organizations to deliver business growth.