Date/Time
11/12/2025
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Central
Course Registration
Member: $59.00
Non-Member: $79.00
Credits
1 Credits
Event Type(s)
Webinars
Event Description
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant innovation — it’s here and it’s transforming how accounting firms operate. It’s not just for the largest firms either. Whether it’s large language models like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, agentic AI, or autonomous AI agents, no firm is too small — or too efficient — to consider how these technologies can enhance productivity and client value. In fact, small and medium-sized firms may soon find they can’t afford to delay adoption.

For small and medium-sized practices, integrating AI offers a powerful opportunity to improve efficiency, expand services, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving profession. Yet, many firms remain uncertain about how to begin, which tools to trust, and where AI best fits within their existing workflows. This course will demystify AI for public practice professionals by exploring why adoption is becoming mission-critical for firms of all sizes, from sole practitioners to multi-office firms. We'll examine how AI is being used to automate routine tasks (e.g., document review, trial balance analysis, client correspondence), support engagement planning and risk assessment, and enable deeper data analysis. Participants will learn about today’s most relevant AI tools and how to begin using them to gain a strategic edge.

Drawing on recent surveys of firm leaders and adoption trends among larger firms, this course will explore how smaller firms can responsibly implement AI tools while maintaining quality, compliance, and client trust. We’ll also examine ethical considerations, staff training strategies, and how to pilot scalable AI solutions — without requiring an enterprise-sized budget.

Objectives:
  • Explain the strategic importance of AI adoption for small and medium-sized firms in the context of evolving client expectations and competitive pressures
  • Identify current AI technologies relevant to accounting practice, including large language models, AI agents, and integrated tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot
  • Analyze real-world use cases where AI can streamline core firm functions such as document review, trial balance analysis, client communication, and risk assessment
  • Evaluate the risks and opportunities of implementing AI, including ethical considerations, data governance, and the impact on quality control and professional judgment
  • Formulate an AI readiness roadmap that prioritizes early-use case pilots, defines vendor selection criteria, and outlines upskilling strategies tailored to firm-specific functions

Presenters:
Jack Castonguay

Field of Study:
Information Technology (1)

Major Topics:
  • Overview of large language models (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot), agentic AI, and autonomous AI agents relevant to accounting
  • Risks related to data privacy, bias, transparency, and professional responsibility
  • Current adoption trends and use cases by firms of all sizes
  • Opportunities and risks in implementing AI in firm operations
Location
Webinar
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