AI in Financial Services: Bridging Efficiency and Expertise

The Secret of Change Is to Focus All of Your Energy, Not on Fighting the Old, But on Building the New
— Socrates

Have you ever felt like the world of technology is moving at warp speed? Well, you're not alone. In the past year, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become the talk of the town, with buzzwords like Chat GPT and Open AI grabbing our attention. Everyone's jumping on the AI bandwagon, and some folks are even worried about their jobs or falling behind the competition. But, let's take a moment to dive into the world of AI in financial services and explore the incredible opportunities it brings, along with some of its limitations.

The Power of AI in Financial Services

So, what's the big deal with AI, you ask? It's not just a buzzword; it's a game-changer. According to Forbes, AI can do it all—reading, writing, hearing, understanding, speaking, even smelling and touching! It's almost like a human, but in digital form. Let's get down to the nitty-gritty of what AI can actually do.

Efficiency Boost with AI

Picture this: you're drafting a job description for a new position. I recently found myself in this scenario and decided to call on Chat GPT for assistance. What I got in return was nothing short of impressive. It provided me with thoughtful insights, examples, and more. Sure, it couldn't add our company's mission statement or values (that's super specific), but it got me 80% there. AI is all about making life easier and more efficient.

And let's not forget about BILL. This nifty Accounts Payable platform uses AI to read invoices and streamline processes. It's like a digital assistant that can save you up to 50% in time compared to traditional paper methods. Plus, it syncs seamlessly with accounting systems like QuickBooks Online. How cool is that?

But here's the real trick – finding those routine tasks that AI can handle like a pro. That's where the magic happens.

Customized Revenue Forecasting

AI finds applications in many areas, making an exhaustive list impractical. The crux lies in recognizing tasks—be they general, routine, or automatable—suitable for AI.

I've also used AI in a consultative capacity, particularly to grasp Key Performance Indicators and industry metrics. It's a tool to inquire about sales and profit enhancement, delving deeper for answers, typically covering 50-80% of the ground. This sparks discussions in client meetings and broadens horizons. Mastering every facet of every problem or industry remains a formidable challenge. Chat GPT serves as a valuable tool, providing summary information and research ideas.

For this blog, I consulted Chat GPT to explore ways fractional CFOs can leverage AI to enhance client value. The response offered general ideas—financial forecasting, cash flow optimization, and scenario planning—but left the 'how' unanswered. Subsequently, I sought information on platforms and tools for financial forecasting, receiving a list. The quest for deeper insights continues.

Unlocking AI's Potential

Now, let's talk about how we can harness AI's power to deliver even more value to our clients. AI can be your financial forecasting guru, cash flow optimizer, and scenario planner. It's like having a super-smart assistant at your disposal. But here's the kicker – understanding how to use it to the max is a puzzle we're still solving.

The Reality of AI

But, let's be real here. AI and software aren't freebies. Sometimes, the promises sound too good to be true, and we're left wondering if the juice is worth the squeeze. It's all about assessing the cost, time, and benefits. It's like that shiny new gadget – it's great until you realize it's collecting dust on your shelf.

AI Can't Replace Everything

I'm still learning about AI; there's a lot to grasp. Larger businesses with hefty data budgets can harness AI better than my clients, typically in the $1 million to $30 million revenue range.

Customized Revenue Forecasting

We excel in customized revenue forecasting, delving deep into critical drivers. Our models are unique; no tool or AI can replicate this. While data tools exist, understanding nuances demands more. We use data as a foundation to make sense of historical events, involving clients in discussions.

For instance, I worked with a complex restaurant and event client. AI would struggle with their intricate events. While we can enhance systems, aligning them with the owner's vision is the real challenge.

Key Client Insights with Actionable Ideas

I've used systems analyzing QuickBooks (QB) data, providing insights. The AI I encountered was generic. It got some things right but made significant errors due to inconsistent data. It heavily relied on historical data, often painting an incomplete picture. AI can save time but can't deliver perfect insights. Achieving precision requires meaningful conversations.

Prioritizing Adjustments and Accountability

Small businesses juggle multiple tasks. Prioritization is key. Understanding financial implications and what's best is crucial. In client meetings, we emphasize accountability for priorities. Business success hinges on action, but sometimes fear paralyzes. I met a client who feared raising prices. AI might struggle to grasp this fear; it involves complex psychological concerns. Human understanding is essential in such cases.

Embracing the AI Frontier and Continuous Opportunity Improvement

AI is here to stay, becoming increasingly integrated into the business and technology landscape. It's a powerful tool, saving time and boosting profits. However, it's vital to acknowledge its limitations. By embracing AI, we focus on what truly matters, making a substantial impact.

As you embark on your AI journey, remember the importance of having a trusted partner like Bender CFO Services. We're not just financial experts; we're strategic allies. While we harness cutting-edge technologies, such as AI, to enhance our services, our true strength lies in understanding your unique financial landscape.

Our approach aligns with continuous opportunity improvement. We encourage asking critical questions:

• Should you work with specific clients or offer particular products?
• Can you automate tasks for efficiency?
• What's the most cost-effective way to save time and increase revenue?
• How can you delegate non-routine tasks while automating routine tasks using affordable software?

In the routine of business, these questions often get overlooked. But neglecting them can lead to excessive expenses and falling behind in technology.

If you're ready to explore how our expertise, combined with the latest advancements in technology, can propel your business to new heights, get in touch with us today. Let's chart a path to financial success together.