Research has shown that a significant transformation is underway in business finance, with a notable 80% of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations. This trend highlights a shift towards leveraging technology in finance roles, allowing these executives to allocate more time to strategic initiatives.

In a significant move to enhance productivity for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), Sage has launched its new generative AI tool, Sage Copilot, which is currently available to early adopters in the United States and the United Kingdom. This innovation is part of a suite of enhancements introduced for Sage Intacct users globally.

Sage Copilot is specifically designed to support finance and accounting teams in navigating daily challenges more effectively. The tool is aimed at providing actionable insights and bolstering accuracy and compliance in financial practices. Its capabilities include identifying budget variances for proactive management and offering clear, reliable answers to critical operational questions, thereby streamlining workflows.

Dan Miller, Executive Vice President of financials and the ERP division at Sage, commented, “We know that finance leaders are looking for ways to save time, drive strategic initiatives and support business growth.” He further added that the introduction of Sage Copilot represents a substantial step towards achieving these goals by providing tools that assist with time-consuming tasks. This, in turn, enables finance professionals to adopt a more proactive approach, concentrating on delivering long-term growth for their organisations.

The launch of Sage Copilot is timely, with research revealing that 89% of CFOs have seen their responsibilities expand significantly due to technological advancements and global complexities. The accompanying Sage report, "The Secrets of Successful CFOs," underscores the evolving landscape of finance roles, indicating a clear need for enhanced capabilities.

Sage Intacct's recent update includes several key enhancements that further this aim. The Sage Copilot Variance Analysis tool assists budget managers by streamlining financial oversight, while the Sage Copilot Search Help allows users to access direct, conversational responses to their queries. Additionally, Sage Intelligent Time Enhancements help ensure compliance with labour regulations, ensure accurate time tracking, and simplify billing processes.

The ongoing integration of AI in financial roles indicates a broader trend towards the automation of business practices, as organisations seek to adapt to an increasingly complex and technology-driven environment. The transformation promises to redefine the landscape of finance, allowing professionals to focus on strategic and leadership responsibilities, thereby reshaping the dynamics of business operations moving forward.

Source: Noah Wire Services