Technology has helped tax and accounting firms to streamline their processes and automate countless time-consuming manual tasks. Firms regularly bring on new tools to address a specific business need. As new software versions become available, however, it can create a situation where some older software may no longer be able to communicate with the new ones.

This can be a serious challenge for the firm – especially when the older software contains data essential to its operations. Many accounting firms are creating connections between new solutions and legacy systems with APIs.

As accounting firms look to increase efficiency by streamlining processes, many are starting with connected technology that simplifies document storage and access, as well as automates workflows.

Automation offers many potential benefits to firms: APIs and RPAs allow firms seamless access to client data; reduce time, risk, and cost; connect teams and clients no matter where they are in the world; free up expert staff for tasks that really matter; and allow firms to make data-backed business decisions with built-in analytics.