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Accounting Apps Podcast | Accounting Technology | formerly Cloud Stories


“Cloud Stories is the world’s coolest accounting podcast” A guy on the Internet told me this once, and I choose to believe him!

The Cloud Stories podcast explores how business solutions integrate with online accounting software (Xero, MYOB and or QBO), and can, in turn, automate processes and improve productivity and profitability. By sharing Cloud Stories from the community listeners gain insights into how small businesses and advisory services can thrive in a brave new world of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robots.

Over the years, Heather Smith has interviewed Accountants • Bookkeepers • Business Consultants • Cloud Advisors • Cloud Integrators • Developers • Small Business Owners • and Solution Providers • who have generously shared their own Cloud Story on the popular podcast.

Contact Heather: https://heathersmithsmallbusiness.com/

Jan 15, 2025

🎙️ Welcome to the Accounting Apps podcast, where we spotlight trends and tools shaping the world of accounting. I'm Heather Smith, and today we’re playing a little game of Accounting Bingo for 2025! What's on the bingo card for the year ahead? We’re talking about technology, tools, and trends that are transforming our profession. Let’s dive in! 🎙️

Subscribe to the Accounting Apps newsletter here http://AccountingApps.io

This is the ChatGPT podcast script I used for the episode

Square 1: AI-Driven Automation
🤖 It’s no surprise that AI is at the top of our bingo card.

In 2025, AI is automating repetitive tasks, analysing vast amounts of data, and even predicting trends. Whether it's categorising transactions or providing forecasting insights, AI tools are making accountants' lives easier.

Brand Watch: Xero’s AI-powered bank reconciliation and QuickBooks’ Smart Suggestions are leading the charge.

 


 

Square 2: ESG Reporting Tools
🌱 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) is no longer optional.

With mandatory ESG reporting becoming standard, accountants are helping clients track their sustainability metrics alongside financial ones.

Brand Watch: Spotlight Sustain: Measure and enhance the positive impact that your organisation or clients can create. SAP and Oracle are embedding ESG tools right into their platforms, making it simpler to comply with new regulations.

 


 

Square 3: Cloud-Based Collaboration
☁️ Cloud-first is the only way forward.

Accountants are embracing platforms that allow teams and clients to collaborate in real-time, from anywhere in the world. Cloud-based solutions have become essential for remote and hybrid work.

Brand Watch: Xero, MYOB, and QuickBooks Online are household names, while Karbon is adding powerful collaboration features for practice management.

 


 

Square 4: Data Analytics and Visualisation
📊 Seeing is believing – and understanding.

Advanced analytics tools are helping accountants go beyond numbers to tell compelling stories with data. Visualisation tools are bringing balance sheets and profit-and-loss statements to life.

Brand Watch: Power BI, Fathom, and Tableau are must-haves for visualising financial insights.

 


 

Square 5: Enhanced Cybersecurity
🔒 Security is non-negotiable.

With the rise of cyberattacks, protecting client data is critical. Accountants need robust cybersecurity measures built into their workflows.

Brand Watch: Platforms like Practice Protect and 1Password are safeguarding sensitive financial information.

 


 

Square 6: Advisory
💼 Advisory is the future.

Accountants are evolving into strategic advisors, helping clients make data-driven decisions to grow their businesses. Offering more personalised services is the new normal.

Brand Watch: Clarity HQ https://clarity-hq.com/ The Gap https://www.thegaphq.com/ 

 


 

Square 7: Remote Work Technologies
🏠 Work from anywhere, but stay connected.

Accountants are relying on tools that keep their teams productive and clients engaged, no matter where they’re working from.

Brand Watch: Microsoft Teams and Zoom remain essentials, while Slack adds another layer of real-time communication.

 


 

Square 8: Automation for Compliance
📜 Stay compliant without the headache.

With ever-changing regulations, automation tools are stepping up to handle compliance tasks. From tax filings to payroll, automation reduces errors and saves time.

Brand Watch: XBert and ATO-certified tools like BAS Agent Portal integrations are a hit in Australia.

 


 

Square 9: Simplified Payments
💳 Get paid faster and easier.

Streamlined payment solutions are helping accountants and their clients manage cash flow more effectively.

Brand Watch: Ignition Solo is a new offering for automated agreements and payments. 

 


 

Square 10: Sustainability in Practice
🌍 Greener practices for a better future.

Beyond ESG reporting, accountants are looking inward to adopt sustainable practices in their own businesses.

Brand Watch: Platforms like Dext are enabling paperless workflows, contributing to a greener planet.

 


 

Conclusion

🎙️ That’s our bingo card for 2025! Which trends are you already embracing, and which ones are still on your wishlist? The world of accounting is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead of these trends will help you thrive in the year ahead. Thanks for tuning in to the Accounting Apps podcast. Until next time, keep innovating! 🎙️

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Contact details:

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://HeatherSmithAU.COM

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 

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

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU