It's time for a revelation. I've been at the helm of outsourcing teams for over 15 years, yet I've hesitated to fully expand my outsourcing venture, Active Outsourcing. Why? Because I foresee the future of accountancy leaning heavily towards outsourcing to microchips (AI), backed by more cost-effective labor.

My outsourcing firm, catering to numerous Australian firms for SMSF and accountancy needs, is thriving. However, the efficiency and accuracy of robots in data-related tasks have prompted my strategic caution. Embracing technology's efficiencies, nearly three-quarters of public practitioners acknowledge its value lies in enhanced work and practice efficiency.

This technological shift is reshaping organizational structures away from traditional pyramid models, automating lower-value tasks and fostering a flatter shape for clearer specialization, client focus, and timely services.

Firms are exploring alternative service models, cultivating relationships with external suppliers and, of course, outsourcing (including to us).

Automation is poised to revolutionize tax return preparation, bookkeeping, data collection, tax submission, and report generation. Robots are primed to assist in compliance tasks, paving the way for a potential robotic revolution in the accountancy landscape.

Are robots our allies or adversaries? That's a contemplation for the week ahead.