The real cost of inefficiency (and how to fix it)
Plus: Do you really need your tech stack? | The free virtual conference that should be on your radar
If your firm’s feeling a little sluggish this fall, you’re not alone. But we’ve got just the thing to perk you up. Today’s newsletter digs into the hidden cost of inefficiency, strategies for thriving on a lean tech stack, and why younger pros think business travel doubles as self-care.
But first, check out this article on how setting clear expectations boosts productivity—no new app required.
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Leading through change: Values (not vision) keep firms steady in the dip
Profit without burnout: Do you track the KPIs that actually make your firm valuable?
Tax season déjà vu: Smooth tax seasons aren't created in February. Start building yours now.
Shutdown drags on: IRS warns even tax refund payments could slow to a crawl
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Boards, bots and better leaders
Kimberly Ellison-Taylor, CPA and former AICPA chair, joined the "Journal of Accountancy" podcast to discuss what’s dominating boardroom conversations. Spoiler: it’s AI. She also talks about how firms can redefine ambition to build stronger, more adaptable teams and highlights upcoming AICPA events, including the Women’s Global Leadership Summit and Digital CPA Conference. With innovation and inclusion taking center stage, the profession’s future is human-led, purpose-driven and ready for transformation.
Why this matters: The firms that thrive in the AI era will blend tech fluency with emotional intelligence. Ellison-Taylor shares where leadership and opportunity are headed next. (Journal of Accountancy)
How to survive busy season without all the shiny tech
When software costs soar but deadlines don't budge, even the most tech-savvy firms start feeling the squeeze. But Christine Gervais, CPA, knows how to thrive on a lean tech budget without sacrificing sanity or service. She offers practical advice for trimming tools, streamlining processes and focusing on what truly moves the needle during crunch time. Turns out, efficiency isn't always found in the newest app. It might be hiding in the systems you already own.
Why this matters: With software subscriptions eating into margins, firms that learn to do more with less may have an edge. It’s proof that resourcefulness and strategy can outperform deep pockets—and your clients will never know the difference. (Insightful Accountant)
85%
Percentage of Gen Z who see business trips as a lifestyle upgrade. (Hotels.com)
- Most firms grew revenue this year, though they had split views on PE investment
- AI steals the spotlight as accounting's must-have innovation of 2025
- Fewer students, fewer specialists and a thinning talent pipeline hit audit harder than tax
- Financial storytelling turns spreadsheets into strategy (and maybe a standing ovation)
- Could property taxes ever disappear, or is that a fiscal fantasy?
The hidden tax of inefficiency is eating your margins alive
We all know inefficiency costs money, but a new report puts real numbers behind the pain, and they're not pretty. From redundant data entry to unbalanced workloads, firms are losing thousands of dollars (and hours) each year to broken processes and outdated tech. The kicker? Most of these leaks go unnoticed because they're disguised as just the way we've always done it. Turns out, every extra click and copy-paste moment adds up fast.
Why this matters: Accountants pride themselves on finding inefficiencies in client books, but it's time to turn that same scrutiny inward. Identify where your workflows drag to protect profitability. (The Woodard Report)
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The Net Gains is curated and written by Janet Berry-Johnson and edited by Bianca Prieto.