It's not Just the Numbers

It's not Just the Numbers

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It's not Just the Numbers episodes

  • CAS, what does it take? With Jan Haugo

    Are you having trouble navigating the complexities of integrating Client Accounting Services (CAS) into your accounting practice? 

    In this episode, Damien and Penny have on Jan Haugo to dive deep into the journey of adopting CAS. They explore how this isn't just about embracing new technology but fundamentally evolving your business model to align with the dynamic demands of CAS. From the significance of starting with robust bookkeeping practices to managing client expectations and adapting to real-time needs, this episode is packed with invaluable advice for firms ready to blend traditional knowledge with modern practices.

    They discuss the broad scope of CAS, the critical role of bookkeeping as a foundation for successful implementation, and the challenges in aligning partners' visions within a firm. They also dive into the nuances of client management, the necessity of consistency in bookkeeping, and the importance of strategic client selection and verticalization. Tune in for an episode that demystifies the journey toward integrating CAS to revolutionize your accounting practice!

    [00:00 - 10:48] The Challenges of Implementing CAS in Traditional Accounting Firms

    • Jan is introduced and shares her insights and passion for technology and her interest in new startups.
    • Jan describes her journey from traditional accounting to going virtual in 2010, her involvement with the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers, and her current roles, including COO and head of bookkeeping.
    • We discuss CAS in accounting and the challenges faced by firms in integrating it.
    • Traditional firms struggle to adapt CAS into their existing models and the misconception of it being a 'plug and play' addition.
    • The discussion highlights the difference between skills needed for tax returns and bookkeeping and the importance of having staff with the right skill set for CAS.
    • Converting clients to regular CAS clients is difficult due to a lack of preparation and mindset change needed in firms.
    • We discuss the complexity of offering a mix of CAS, traditional, advisory, and other services by the same team, leading to performance and scalability issues.

    [10:49 - 27:30] Successful CAS Starts With Bookkeeping

    • Jan used ChatGPT to analyze the QuickBooks Connect agenda and identify sessions related to CAS and AI, highlighting the utility of AI in categorizing and defining complex topics.
    • Firms face difficulties in clearly defining CAS. This can lead to challenges in implementation and integration.
    • Successful CAS implementations often start with bookkeeping
    • Effective CAS requires control over data flow and cooperation from clients, which is not always straightforward.
    • Firms sometimes need to let go of clients who don’t comply with the necessary changes for effective CAS implementation.



    [27:31 - 32:25] Navigating Change and Client Relationships in Transitioning

    • We discuss how to navigate client relationships, especially when changes in banking or technology are involved.
    • Find practical solutions like opening an operating account to maintain the client's existing banking relationships while facilitating the firm’s work.
    • Uses easy-to-follow demos to convince clients to adapt to new systems.
    • Get a good client success manager!
    • Our discussion emphasizes the need for clear communication and setting expectations with clients regarding service changes and requirements.


    [32:25 - 48:37] Going Virtual Takes a Lot of Work, But It’s Worth It

    • Jan Haugo emphasizes the importance of consistency in bookkeeping and accounting services.
    • Penny and Jan discuss the challenges of transitioning from a traditional accounting practice to a virtual one.
    • Damien Greathead adds that practitioners must recognize the journey of transitioning to a virtual practice takes time and involves managing client expectations.
    • Penny highlights the challenges of bookkeeping during tax season.
    • Damien and Jan discuss the importance of hands-on technical training in the rapidly changing accounting industry.



    Connect with Jan on LinkedIn!


    Tweetable Quotes


    “They think it's a plug-and-play model... but they don't adapt it to the workflow that is required." - Jan Haugo


    "Just because someone can do a tax return doesn't mean that they can do the bookkeeping." - Jan Haugo


    “Ultimately, CAS actually has to start with bookkeeping. It actually has to start with doing the bookkeeping for the client so that you can then build upon with additional.”  – Damien Greathead


    "I have fired clients for not having the right bank account... if I can't get a statement, I can't get the information connected, or I can't even get bookkeeper access." - Jan Haugo


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    Thank you for listening, Please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    49 min
  • The Future of Accounting and Revolutionizing Tax Filing with AI

    How is the rise of AI and advanced technology reshaping the landscape of accounting? 

    In this episode, Damien and Penny sit down with Jody Padar. Sharing her journey, Jody detailed her transition from joining her father's traditional firm to establishing her brand, "the Radical CPA", leveraging cutting-edge tech. She talks about April, an AI-powered tax software aiming to streamline the tax process by melding human expertise with AI's efficiency. While technology, especially AI, may seem intimidating, it stands as an aid rather than a threat. Professionals are encouraged to view AI as a tool for efficiency, much like how marketers have adapted to social media. 

    Tune into this episode to uncover the nuances of AI in accounting and grasp the transformative impact of technology on modern accounting practices.

    [00:00 - 08:37] The Transitioning from Traditional to Cloud-based Accounting

    • Accounting and bookkeeping professionals need to build practices with intention. This means taking a proactive approach to avoid common pitfalls and mistakes in the industry.
    • Jodie shares her experience and early adaptation to technological shifts. Though initially seen as 'radical', her proactive embrace of cloud technology paved the way for her firm's success and influenced the broader accounting industry.


    [08:38 - 19:56] How April is Revolutionizing the Landscape of Tax Filing

    • Jody talks about how April represents the shift towards integrating AI in tax filing, making the process more efficient.
    • April is primarily aimed at consumers but does so through a B2B2C model, highlighting the changing paradigms in software distribution.
    • The use of AI allows GetApril to swiftly adapt to tax law changes, a vital aspect in the fast-paced tax environment.
    • By automating mundane tasks, GetApril gives CPAs the chance to focus on providing more valuable advisory services to clients.


    [19:57 - 29:29] How is AI will Impact the Traditional Roles and Responsibilities of CPAs

    • AI should be seen as an enabler, assisting in making tasks more efficient, not as a replacement for human jobs.
    • Technology expenses should be seen as operational necessities, aligning them with labor costs for more effective financial management.
    • Embracing AI can address the existing shortage in the accounting industry, offering solutions to high work demands.
    • Firms have a choice in how they want to evolve – they can grow extensively or intensively.


    [29:30 - 40:52] How is AI will Impact the Traditional Roles and Responsibilities of CPAs

    • How middle managers justify productivity and efficiency over billable hours
    • Technology in accounting is not about reducing billable hours but increasing overall efficiency and client reach.
    • Successful adaptation to technological advances requires a shift in mindset, not necessarily in age.
    • Humanizing the tax preparation process by using relatable language can enhance client engagement.
    • The value of a CPA is not just in tax prep but also in advisory roles that tech cannot replace.
    • Closing up! 


    Connect with Jody Padar on LinkedIn 

    Visit: https://www.getapril.com

    Read Jody’s Book! The Radical CPA

    Visit: https://theradicalcpa.com 


    Tweetable Quotes


    "One of the things that we're trying to do is help business owners, practitioners in the business of accounting and bookkeeping, avoid the pitfalls and the mistakes that we've made along the way." – Jody Padar


    “We don't know what we don’t know. Our jobs are going to change, but they're not going to be any less. They're just going to be different.” – Penny Breslin


    "Billable time might be going down, but the technology is allowing them...to do more work." – Jody Padar


    "Technology is not an age thing. It's a mindset thing." – Jody Padar


    “I can be worried about technology, or I can embrace it, evolve, build my skills, and look at ways in which I can change the relationship or add more value to the relationship with my clients.” – Damien Greathead


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    Thank you for listening, Please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    48 min
  • Expert Cybersecurity Tips for Accountants

    Phishing emails are common nowadays. How aware are you of these threats? Do you know the magnitude of what these hackers can do? This episode of the podcast Strategy in the Virtual Controller dives into the story of Andrew Lassise, IT for tax professionals & bookkeepers at Rush Tech / Tech 4 Accountants.

    Andrew provides insight into common cyber threats such as phishing attempts and ransomware. He also shares a story about a man whose life savings were taken away right in front of him due to his lack of security measures. Through this conversation, we learn the importance of being aware of what is being clicked on and enabling two-factor authentication on all accounts. We also gained advice on developing workflow systems for verifying invoices with vendors over the phone; implementing strong cybersecurity protocols, training, and audit trails; and being cautious when dealing with online files that may contain malicious software. Finally, we discuss the importance of verifying wiring instructions and other details before sending payments to suppliers, as well as developing a cybersecurity awareness policy for employees to review annually.


    [00:00 - 16:07] How Cybersecurity Threats Evolve Today

    • Andrew's background story of how he ended up working in the accountant vertical

    • Bad actors scrape information from social media to send phishing emails

    • Phishing emails often ask for help with filing taxes or offer a zip file with returns

    • If opened, malware is installed, which encrypts data and demands payment for its return


    [16:08 - 25:06] Protect Yourself from Malware and Ransomware

    • Cybersecurity threats have evolved over the last few years, becoming more targeted and calculated

    • Examples of cyberattacks include bypassing two-factor authentication and wiring out life savings

    • For those with a company portal, questions should be asked regarding their security measures

    • A layered approach should be taken for protection against malware and ransomware


    [25:07 - 47:57] Cybersecurity Training: The Key to Avoiding Fraudulent Wire Instructions

    • Always call to confirm the wire instructions

    • Look out for changes in the volume of purchases, payment details, and sudden increases in payments

    • Be aware of apps that require personal information and be cautious when engaging with things on social media

    • Hackers don't always manually try to gain access but can use information from breaches or social media posts


    [47:58 - 50:03] Closing Segment

    • Connet with Andrew and book a complimentary IT audit for your accounting firm

    • Andrew's closing advice: develop cybersecurity awareness policies and training



    Tweetable Quotes


    “The front line of defense on everything is your people. So in that specific example of somebody that's working in AP, I think it's going to come down to something workflow related to have some sort of check-in balance because there isn't a communication in that exact scenario.” - Andrew Lassise


    “Getting that awareness, I think, is really the best first step. And it's also doesn't cost anything.” – Andrew Lassise


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    Thank you for listening. Please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    51 min
  • Reinventing the Traditional Accounting Firm

    What are the new perspectives in technology in relation to the current financial landscape? In this episode of Strategy and the Virtual Controller, Damien and Penny discuss how accountants and financial planners are adapting to the current financial landscape in the midst of the pandemic. They share their experiences from a conference they attended focusing on staying healthy during this time, how to be an effective master of ceremonies at a panel discussion, and what services can work together for mutual benefit.

    The conversation covers the importance of communication of technology to provide a high-quality service to clients as well as suggestions for success such as identifying the right clients, understanding what kind of business you want to build, paying referral fees, taking extra care with client prep work, and putting clients on extensions automatically. 


    Tune in as Damien and Penny as they bring new perspectives to work such as valuing healthy work-life balance and open communication with colleagues!


    [00:00 - 00:27] Opening Segment

    • Damien and Penny discuss AI, Accounting, Bookkeeping, and technology
    • How different people handle being a master of ceremonies at a panel discussion  


    [00:28 - 14:03] Reinventing the Traditional Accounting Firm

    • Communication and technology are key in the accounting industry
    • It is important to be on the same page with clients
    • Recommendations from others can help identify potential mistakes
    • User marketing to build relationships with potential competitors


    [14:04 - 26:23] Working Together To Achieve The Same Value Set

    • Centers of influence is a great way to do marketing without putting a lot of money into it
    • Referral fees can be beneficial for both parties and should be discussed
    • Response times, communication tools, and client expectations should be transparent
    • The traditional business model of an accounting firm has changed for all the businesses we service


    [26:24 - 30:48] Closing Segment

    • Tune in as Damien and Penny share how a growing practice is marketing about being clear on what it is you do, who you serve, and what’s your value proposition!


    Tweetable Quotes

    “I'm not the sharpest knife in the draw and I'm not a whiz-bang CPA, with all those degrees behind me, but I look at what it takes to be connected with a client.” - Penny Breslin


    “Take some time to work out what it is you want. Go back to chapter one of the book, it's not just the numbers to say, “What sort of a business do you want to build?".” – Damien Greathead


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    Thank you for listening, Please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    31 min
  • How to Implement an Effective Training Program

    Why is it important to be trained when working with AI-driven solutions? In this episode of Strategy and the Virtual Controller, Damien and Penny discuss their recent getaways and how they managed to get back to work after taking a break. They talk about the importance of training when working with AI-driven solutions. They highlight why training is essential in the accounting industry, from understanding different applications to better understanding customers.          

    The conversation covers ways to provide ongoing training, such as dedicating time every week, assigning trainers based on their experience, and having team members share what they learned. 


    Tune in as Damien and Penny as they explore how to successfully use technology while staying trained and informed about the latest developments in the accounting industry!


    [00:00 - 05:16] Opening Segment

    • Damien and Penny share their experiences after returning from holiday
    • They discuss the importance of understanding the impact of AI on bookkeeping       


    [05:17 - 10:24] How to Implement an Effective Training Program

    • The need for skilled workers to understand the end-to-end process of data flow
    • Quality of information is paramount for accurate bookkeeping
    • Training in accounting processes is just as important, if not more difficult, than helping technicians understand the bookkeeping process better
    • Internal knowledge of the client is key to assisting the bottom line and helping organize their expenses


    [10:25 - 27:27] Unlocking The Benefits Of AI And Technology

    • Dedicated training sessions and communication channels should be set up to ensure everyone is on the same page
    • AI is built in many ways and can save an enormous amount of time
    • Fostering a culture of sharing and constant learning helps get more out of technology
    • Client intricacy is critical to understanding the goal of the process


    [27:28 - 36:55] Closing Segment

    • Tune in as Damien and Penny share how networking with others at conferences can lead to comradery and sharing of knowledge!


    Tweetable Quotes

    “I can't believe the speed of information changing not information change. The information is always there, the information is always the same, but our ways of accessing it, utilizing it and generating information out of it is changing drastically and it's changing daily.” - Penny Breslin


    “It's really important that you foster that particular type of culture within your firm. And then that constant never-ending improvement and constant learning starts to flow. And most importantly, you start to get more and more out of the technology that you're paying a lot of money for.” – Damien Greathead


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    Thank you for listening, please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    37 min
  • Carving Out Time To Achieve Anticipated Results

    Why do you need to keep tasks easy to understand? In this episode of Strategy and the Virtual Controller, Damien, and Penny tackle the importance of taking a step back before implementing any technology or workflow changes. They discuss how to set up an anticipatory set that will help employees work more efficiently and effectively, reduce misunderstandings, and minimize write-offs due to incorrect processes.

    The conversation covers how COVID has impacted internships and new workers coming out of college who may lack experience in executing tasks.


    Tune in as Damien and Penny as they stress the need to make sure that tasks are easy to understand and complete in order to ensure successful outcomes!


    [00:00 - 01:20] Opening Segment

    • Damien and Penny discuss accounting, client accounting services, virtual accounting, and virtual controller services
    • Helping practitioners build intentional businesses and avoid mistakes


    [01:21 - 13:50] Avoid Tax Write-Offs Through Anticipatory Set

    • They share their advice on taking a step back and making sure there’s a mutual understanding of objectives and outcomes before rushing to a solution
    • Anticipatory set:
    • Define title
    • Define objectives
    • Define what learners should learn


    [13:51 - 36:33] Carving Out Time To Achieve Anticipated Results

    • Remote workers and new employees may not have experience of internships due to COVID
    • The anticipatory set is the objective, which includes the tasks, the trial balance, and the objectives of the trial balance
    • Objectives is what we should achieve, whereas anticipatory set is the result that we anticipate to happen
    • It’s important to consider what client the client see on their side of the app, as it may be different than what you see


    [36:34 - 40:10] Closing Segment

    • Tune in as Damien and Penny share why you need to make sure that tasks are easy to understand and complete in order to ensure successful outcomes!


    Tweetable Quotes

    “I did not define both ends of it and you would think, well, why should I? Well, because she's a valuable employee and I don't need to constantly berate her because of my lack of communication.” - Penny Breslin


    “The client's coming to you because of your accounting and tax expertise. And so a great way in which you can demonstrate your accounting and tax expertise is just to get them better organized and tell them how you want them to submit information.” – Damien Greathead


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    Thank you for listening, please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    41 min
  • “Scaling New Heights” With AI Technology

    In this episode, Damien and Penny discuss the importance of leveraging AI to build more intentional businesses, allowing accountants to focus on building relationships and providing value-added services.

    The conversation covers topics such as managing data, automating processes, making predictions based on prior history, the need for standardized business models in Australia, and more.  

    Tune in as Damien and Penny as they discuss the different ways that AI can be used as deductive, predictive, or generative!

    [00:01 - 03:23] Opening Segment

    • Damien and Penny discuss helping accountants and bookkeepers build more intentional businesses
    • Their program focuses on tips and tricks for apps as well as defining CAS (Client Accounting Services)  

    [03:24 - 17:09] Leveraging Technology To Build Intentional Businesses

    • Accountants need to differentiate themselves by talking about the outcomes their CAS services will deliver
    • AI, ChatGPT, Barta, and RPA were discussed as ways to personalize relationships with clients
    • Accounting firms need to decide which clients they want to provide value-added services to
    • Promoting the idea of standardized banking to standardize bank feeds and experience

    [17:10 - 25:31] Scaling New Heights With AI Technology

    • AI can cut down time spent on administrative tasks by:
    • AI has evolved from being deductive to predictive and generative
    • AI can automate processes and generate personalized information
    • AI can help firms build strategic relationships with their clients
    • AI provides insights that need to be converted into actionable steps for the client
    • Focus on clients that are willing to pay for the services and increase the value of the relationship

    [25:32 - 36:41] Closing Segment

    • Tune in as Damien and Penny share how accounting firms can utilize AI for their company!


    Tweetable Quotes

    “Don't look at AI as an enemy. Look at it as your friend who's going to allow you to say, “Okay, that part of the business runs on AI. This part of the business runs a relationship.” And I get to choose which one I want to do that with.” - Penny Breslin


    “What does that mean to have a business coach and partial CFO? It's cashflow planning, it's forecasting, and budgeting, actually explaining to clients what it is that you do, what you just said in terms of helping them make better decisions. They're all outcomes and that's what you have to be talking about on your website.” – Damien Greathead


    ----------------------------------------------------------------------


    Thank you for listening, please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    37 min
  • Streamline Your Workflow And Organize Chaos

    In this episode, Damien and Penny explore how accounting firms and bookkeepers can use workflow, AI, and technology to build their business with intentionality, help their clients better understand their business, and deliver value to them, as well as create a great workplace for their team.

    The conversation focuses on the benefits of workflow, such as workflows, such as better visibility, accountability, and organization. 


    Tune in as Damien and Penny as they advise listeners on what questions to ask when reviewing workflow applications and suggestions on setting up the workflow!


    [00:01 - 01:36] Opening Segment

    • Damien and Penny discuss workflow, AI, and technology
    • AI is becoming more useful from a marketing and productivity standpoint


    [01:37 - 13:49] How To Increase Efficiency And Accountability Through Workflow

    • AI can help with client communication and workflow
    • Push communication into Slack and Zoom chats
    • What is workflow?
    • Cloud-based services require proper cloud-based workflow for tracking


    [13:50 - 28:21] Streamline Your Workflow And Organize Chaos

    • Simple workflow tools can be used even by one-person firms to help manage tasks
    • It is important for business owners to create space for themselves to think about their business and recharge
    • Set reminders and use a triage mentality to prioritize tasks
    • Take time out of the office or go offline to step away and think about your business
    • Penny shares the key capabilities required for any workflow software you're investigating

    1. All of client communication linked to the client record in the WF
    2. Assigned allocation of resource let's one know who has the task
    3. Status tells one where the task is on time to completion, what is holding up the task, what is missing
    4. Due dates, recurrence and priority cuts down on the question that revolve around administrating the tasking
    5. History of prior Q/A is helpful with not repeating mistakes or repeating questions


    [28:22 - 35:07] Closing Segment

    • Damien and Penny advise listeners to review workflow applications to improve their business workflow!


    Tweetable Quotes

    “Life is too short. Nobody ever knows when they're going to be the one getting hit by a bus, so don't waste it.” - Penny Breslin


    “If you need to take time out of the office or want to take time and go offline, will your team have everything that they need at their fingertips to keep the work moving.” – Damien Greathead


    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Thank you for listening, please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    36 min
  • Enhancing Efficiency With AI Automation

    In this episode, Damien and Penny explore the changing job environment due to the increasing use of AI in accounting and tax processes. They share their experiences with Carbon, an AI-powered workflow tool that some of their clients are using.

    The conversation dives into the potential of AI to automate tasks in the accounting process, such as checklists, emails, and other administrative tasks that would allow accountants to spend more time on the work they were trained for.


    Tune in as Damien and Penny as they discuss using AI in accounting and how it can save practitioners time and effort!


    [00:01 - 04:57] Opening Segment

    • Damien and Penny discuss how AI is being implemented in different apps to automate communications
    • Carbon is one of the workflow tools being used with AI technology to write emails and summarize client communication into bullet points  


    [04:58 - 27:04] How Practitioners Are Leveraging AI To Automate Communication And Workflow

    • How AI is being used to automate administrative functions and emails
    • A seamless experience for clients
    • It is easier for team leaders, less administrative time, and more detail is put in
    • AI is taking a part of the job that doesn’t require much training, such as administrative tasks


    [27:05 - 28:01] Enhancing Efficiency With AI Automation

    • AI can help with communication and marketing
    • AI has yet to separate itself based on sales receipts or review transactions
    • Embracing the benefits of AI in communication and administrative tasks
    • Accountants need to be trained to become KPOs (Knowledge Process Outsourcing)


    [28:02 - 40:56] Closing Segment

    • Damien and Penny explore how AI is being used in accounting and how it can save practitioners time and effort!


    Tweetable Quotes

    “Give me something more, give me something that a bot can't do. Show me that you didn't just click a button, that you actually considered what you were doing when you did it based on what you know about the client because that is what you're getting paid for.” - Penny Breslin


    “ At the end of the day, there's going to be so much nuance in each and every client that yes, it might, maybe 60% of transactions, that's fine. But I think we've been doing that for a long time already. I don't see the same speed to market in that space as I do on say, the comms and the administrative capabilities of AI.” – Damien Greathead


    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Thank you for listening, please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    41 min
  • Exploring The Frontier Of Artificial Intelligence

    In this episode, Damien and Penny discuss the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to revolutionize tax season. From simplifying bookkeeping processes to improving communication between businesses and their clients, they explore how AI is transforming the way accounting teams work and how it can help reduce time spent waiting for client responses.

    The conversation today takes a look at how AI can be used to write marketing materials, job descriptions, and communications, as well as create autoresponder emails tailored to individual clients’ needs.


    Tune in as Damien and Penny take an inside look at the potential of AI to make filing taxes easier and more efficient!


    [00:01 - 05:14] Opening Segment

    • Damien and Penny discuss the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
    • AI and ML are being used to look for patterns in data, code, etc.


    [05:15 - 17:29] Exploring The Frontier Of Artificial Intelligence

    • AI integration is being tested to facilitate communication between clients and accounting firms
    • This eliminates the need for the client to leave their native app and enter a new one
    • Clients can respond in their own way, making them more comfortable and quicker to respond
    • AI can be used to facilitate more seamless interaction with clients


    [17:30 - 23:00] Leveraging AI To Streamline Bookkeeping Process And Improve Client Relationships

    • Identify the correct person to speak to in a business
    • AI can help write emails, marketing materials, job descriptions, etc.
    • The iterative process of creating templates and using AI to improve them


    [23:01 - 28:08] Closing Segment

    • Damien and Penny take an inside look at the potential of AI to make filing taxes easier and more efficient!


    Tweetable Quotes

    “It doesn't matter to us which way it goes. We tell the AI to default to that for that client, and now the client owns it because they decided how they wanted to respond and when they wanted to respond. So, they now own that process.” - Penny Breslin


    “Leveraging AI in this instance, what it means is that we still don’t know about these transactions. But then the process immediately starts into more familiar forms of communication back and forth with the client to speed that process up.” – Damien Greathead


    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Thank you for listening, please like and share this episode with a friend!


    Websites: https://moneypennyllc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiengreathead/

    Twitter: @Damien_GH

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penny-breslin-0228b81/

    Twitter: @pennyb57

    29 min

About It's not Just the Numbers

From the publisher's feed

It’s Not Just the Numbers is a podcast for accounting firm owners, leaders, and professionals building modern firms beyond compliance.