“In fact, many accountants are finding ways to turn these potential disruptors into enablers, by focusing on the things they can offer that technology can’t,” said Mr Lane in a message posted online.

Accounting firms using cloud accounting software and white-labelled SMSF administration products, he said, are able to service the more routine needs of their clients.

“On one hand this enables them to offer their services at a more competitive price point, and on the other it frees up more time for them to provide additional value-added services that leverage their professional expertise,” he said.

“Even if your clients have already adopted their own cloud accounting or SMSF administration service, there are still opportunities to deepen your relationships with them by helping clients harness the full power of these digital technologies.”

The future of accounting, he said, will be ‘bionic’ rather than ‘robotic’, with winning firms offering a hybrid of innovative technology and a personalised client proposition.

“The key is to make the shift to become a trusted adviser that businesses and individuals can’t afford to do without. And for firms who are able to do this well, the future looks brighter than ever,” he added.

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