1. The future accountant

2. We know the accountancy profession is changing
We know the accountancy profession is changing. Automation of basic finance processes is starting to take effect and this is a trend which is certain to continue.
Job roles are already changing and skillsets are evolving accordingly.

3. So what will the future accountant look like and how will the role develop over time?  

4. We surveyed over 250 AAT students and more experienced members to get a sense of the future. We wanted to understand how you see the profession developing. How will accountants and bookkeepers stay relevant in a world increasingly reliant on technology?

5. Here are your thoughts.

6. Overwhelmingly people think advances in technology is a positive.

7. Do you think advances in technology are positive for the accounting profession?

8. Technology has helped in their roles.
AAT is a registered charity. No

9. How has technology impacted on your role?

10. 60% think basic accountancy processes will be fully automated within five years.
AAT is a registered charity. No

11. How soon do you think it will be for basic accountancy processes to be fully automated?

12. The biggest change for the accountancy profession will be automation.
AAT is a registered charity. No

13. What do you think the biggest change will be for the accountancy profession?

14. Understanding technology is going to be the most important additional skill.
AAT is a registered charity. No

15. Please rank in order of importance the additional skills you think accountants of the future will need.

16. Role will become more strategic and reporting will be in real time.
AAT is a registered charity. No

17. Please rank three changes in order of importance that you think accountancy will see as a result of automation.

18. Colleagues and clients now expect information quicker and in real time.
AAT is a registered charity. No

19. How have your colleagues or clients expectations changed as a result of automation (tick all that apply)?

20. Accountancy will become more IT based in the future.
AAT is a registered charity. No

21. Do you agree or disagree with the following statements?

22. The future accountant