Client relations

With AI taking on a growing share of routine tasks, accounting firms want more than just productivity from their partners.

A growing share of prospects now ask AI questions like "who is the best CPA firm for a small business near me" and act on the three or four names the model gives them.

Accounting firms are currently adopting multiple tools to automate internal processes, streamline client interactions and identify operational bottlenecks.

Clients are beginning to assume that if technology can forecast trends, flag anomalies, and surface insights instantly, then their accountant should be doing the same.

If the data belongs to the business owner, why is it so hard for them, and for the accountants who serve them, to actually get it?

Plus, TransFi launches Jarvis for cross-border payment compliance; PwC Canada joins with Alation to develop AI solutions; and other accounting tech news.

Accounting may be the language of business, but it's not the language of most business owners.

Anxious accountants can take a breath, as data shows human clients do not crave a 100% AI-led experience. In fact, there are certain tasks which they prefer be 100% human-led.

AI has raised the bar for what counts as good service in clients' eyes, meaning the humans will need to up their game, perhaps through the use of AI.

The advisory gap isn't about services. It's about understanding how business owners actually think.

A majority of accounting firms say they are changing their messaging around pricing as clients increasingly question their cost models in the age of AI efficiencies.

Paul Griggs, CEO of PwC, said they plan to adjust billing model to factor in AI, potentially without even a human professional in the loop, and added that if any humans have a problem with it they have no place in this firm.

When a client picks up the phone, they have a pressing question or concern they need answered right away.

The best firms don't build walls to keep clients in — they build wells clients never want to leave. Here are three keys.

Accounting firm leaders should stop waiting for struggling people, processes and clients to change on their own.

Five hidden traits may be holding you back.

Most accounting and bookkeeping firms are still flying blind when it comes to pricing, and it's eating into their margins.

Nasty behavior by individuals at client companies toward auditors is widespread and can negatively affect auditor judgment, according a new academic study.

Clients increasingly view their accountants not just as compliance partners, but as essential growth engines. They don't just need a tax return and help with compliance, they need a strategic partner.

Plus, Suralink unveils AI enhancements in Workpaper Suite; Zip touts price negotiation agent, other AI agents; and other accounting tech news and updates.