5 AI tools beyond ChatGPT to boost accounting workflows

By Adam Turner

The effective implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) into organisational workflows gives accountants more time in their day, but it is much more than a force multiplier for streamlining existing processes and boosting productivity.

A new generation of AI-powered services makes it easier for accountants to add powerful new tools to their toolbelt. AI flattens the learning curve for new technology, which reduces the need to invest huge amounts of time to master new applications, skills and programming techniques.

Here are five ways to use AI that accounting and finance professionals should consider.

1. Data analysis

Tools like Rows AI, Julius AI and Hex make it easier for accountants to collate and interrogate a range of data sources in search of advanced insight.

Support for Natural Language Processing allows accountants to query large datasets using conversational text (instead of programming language) — similar to Copilot and ChatGPT — and instantly generate dashboards and summary reports without the need for complex formulas.

These tools lower the barrier to entry when adopting more advanced data-analysis tools. This helps elevate accountants from number crunchers to strategic advisers by allowing them to quickly extract insights, personalise financial advice and spend more time consulting directly with clients and stakeholders.

2. Vibe coding

Vibe coding allows accountants to take their analysis to the next level by using generative AI to build custom financial tools, scripts and dashboards.

This allows professionals to leverage more powerful tools without the need to learn traditional programming languages and techniques, says Tyler Wise FCPA says, partner of Accounting and Business Advisory at Findex and a member of CPA Australia’s Digital Transformation Centre of Excellence.

“When Microsoft officially integrated Python into Excel, it was a major advancement for accountants. But unfortunately, few actually know how to code in Python,” Wise says. “Thanks to AI, the power of Python is now a lot more accessible.

“For example, Copilot makes adding Python elements to Excel seamless as you do not need to know how Python works — you only need to describe what you want it to do.”

3. Presentation generators

AI-assisted presentation generators like Canva, Beautiful.ai and Gamma help accountants convey complex ideas in a concise and engaging manner. They can ingest data from a wide range of sources, automate visualisation steps, create outlines and help weave a compelling narrative.

These tools minimise tedious tasks like slide-building and manual formatting, while ensuring a consistent look and feel. They can also simplify complex jargon into easy-to-understand language, to tailor presentations for different audiences.

4. Meeting note-takers

AI-powered note-takers do far more than transcribe conversations. Services like Otter.ai and Fireflies.ai can generate meeting summaries with action items, plus they feature built-in AI assistants which can answer queries, expand on talking points and even write content based on the conversation.

These tools allow accountants to focus on meeting discussions rather than scramble to take notes, Wise says. “Having an AI scribe in meetings ensures notes are always accurate and not open to interpretation.

“I have found having it present in meetings also facilitates higher ethical standards from all participants, and wider respect for the role and boundaries of the accountant.”

5. Workflow builders

Tools like Zapier and Make allow accountants to connect services and create workflows, which speeds up common tasks while reducing manual data entry and the potential for human error. These platforms take advantage of AI to help build complex workflows using Natural Language Processing, as well as add AI steps within workflows.

Along with connecting existing services, workflow builders also make it easier for accountants to adopt new services without the need for complex manual integration.