Don’t underrate the Human in Accountancy Part 2

In Part 1 we looked at the ways in which new technology will support and drive the accountancy profession, as well as sharing some warnings of overdependence. 
 
In fact, there may already be something of a paradox at play. Namely that (in the short to medium term, at least) sophisticated human capabilities such as problem solving, insight, objectivity, professional scepticism, and integrity will become increasingly valuable as we adopt more ever sophisticated technology. These are still particularly human skills, and ones which will allow firms to stay competitive and relevant in their fields. So, whilst there will be, and should be an investment in technology, this should not be to the detriment of improving the skills of their people and making process improvements within firms that will better serve clients with broader and more diverse services.
 
The World Economic Forum’s ‘Future of Jobs Survey’ canvassed several hundred leading CEOs and identified the skills that leading organisations viewed as essential if they are to remain relevant deep into the next decade. The top three trending skills in the survey closely relate to those that progressive accountancy firms will require as they protect and improve competitiveness and relevance. These skills will ensure that they keep pace with clients and add value to their overall proposition – particularly in light of the demands of the fourth industrial revolution:
 

1. Analytical thinking and innovation
2. Complex problem solving
3. Critical thinking and analysis

• How do you and your organisation provide value added services, on top of the accounting work expected by clients?
• How do you differentiate yourself in this competitive market using the best talent available in the market place?
• Why would a bright and able new graduate want to work for, and stay with your firm? What are you offering?

• Analytical thinking

• Critical Thinking
• Structured and Systematic Analysis
• Problem Solving
• Thinking for Innovation