13.5 Summary and Course Conclusion

Realistically, what software can do versus what it actually does for an organization are two different realities. AIS software and supplemental solutions, at any time or place, are not just data repositories. Software systems are also intended to provide tools for collaboration.

In concept, we explored how software can best facilitate accurate information sharing to streamline accounting processes. However, users of these systems will find there are practical limitations within any AIS implementation. Discerning between software “have-to-have” and “nice-to-have” features can be challenging as organizations continually evaluate their systems. The ongoing review also provides an opportunity for accounting professionals to step up their soft skills to identify, address, and resolve process gaps.

While accounting software is not the only consideration in successfully enabling processes, sharing real-time business snapshots, and forecasting future performance, it is a critical element of informed decision-making. The relationship between accounting, FP&A, and IT roles will likely become less siloed and more complementary, even overlapping in some ways. As business dynamics change, we can expect accounting processes and systems to evolve with them.