According to PwC, the global RPA market size is expected to reach USD$5 billion by 2024, with the Asia Pacific estimated to reach $817 million by 2021.
In the finance and accounting sector, companies are leveraging robotic process automation (RPA) to increase efficiencies and streamline business processes.
But what is RPA, exactly? And how will robotics in accounting impact your job?
Here’s what you need to know, as well as several ways you can gain a competitive career advantage as technology continues to revolutionize the finance industry.
What is RPA?
RPA is a way for businesses to automate tedious or repetitive processes to save time and money and increase employee productivity. Automation can help speed up tasks that require number-crunching or the use of algorithms, such as calculating depreciation, for example.
There are many other operations related to accounting and auditing that RPA can take care of, including data entry, expense management and records reconciliation. Additionally, the use of tools like Kofax, UiPath and Blue Prism allows more complex functions — such as aspects of financial reporting and even compliance — to be automated.
Additionally, robotics in accounting can revolutionise the realm of auditing and regulatory compliance. With the automation of compliance-based tasks, companies can reduce the risk of human error and avoid critical breaches.
A robotics in accounting boost
The good news for accounting professionals is that robotics will ultimately be job enhancing. RPA reduces the need for humans to complete mundane tasks, freeing up employees for more skill-based, strategic projects.
As a result, finance and accounting workers will see exciting new career opportunities, and a chance to upskill or develop their knowledge in other key areas of the business.
Getting ready for accounting automation
There are a number of steps finance professionals can take to make automation work to their advantage:
Be flexible
Companies will prize adaptable employees who see the possibilities of new technology and are excited about what the future holds.
Find ways to help make the transition to robotics in accounting in your workplace smooth, such as requesting training sessions and suggesting implementation plans or ways to improve processes disrupted by automation. This can help you stand out from the crowd in the view of your employer.
Proactively approach new technology
Another way to stay ahead of the curve is by learning as much as you can about relevant technologies and related skills through reputable publications, blogs, podcasts and case studies.
Becoming an expert on blockchain, data analytics or new trends in how RPA is being used in audits can make your current employer or a new one sees you as having a digital mindset — a plus in virtually any financial job today.
Get certified
Take learning to the next step by completing one of the many RPA certification programs that give accounting professionals the expertise and knowledge of this technology, and how it’s revolutionising the financial sector.
These designations show employers you’re serious about taking advantage of everything RPA has to offer.
Highlight your results
As your company adopts RPA, keep track of how you benefit from it in your day-to-day operations and share your results with management. Have you saved time or cut down on errors? Report it.
Showcasing your success in implementing new technology lets your employer know you’re open to change and you’re ready to take on new duties and responsibilities.
Enhance your soft skills
Don’t forget to also hone your non-technical abilities. Focus on improving your strategic thinking, leadership, communication, collaboration and intellectual curiosity. These traits will become even more important as technology frees up humans to work together more often and as virtual workforces become increasingly commonplace.
Seek growth opportunities
Once you’re familiar with a new implementation of robotics in accounting in your office, offer to contribute to training sessions for the rest of the team. You could see your efforts rewarded with a promotion or even a new role created in response to technological advancements.
