Advances in digital technology are reshaping the world of accountancy and finance. This syllabus looks at the digital innovations happening right now, those that are coming soon, and what may be on the horizon. It also looks at how your organisation can prepare for these changes, and successfully put them into practice.

Introduction and overview

Rate your confidence across the key areas of the syllabus, to see where to focus your attention. Read some background information about digital innovation and options for modern finance careers, and fill in the first section of your action plan.

1. Overview

Here and now

Data is absolutely core to the work we do as accountancy and finance professionals. Find out about big data and some of the different approaches to data analysis that are already available. Take a closer look at data science, and some of the main analytical tools that you can utilise in your role to make the most of the data you have.

2. Big data
3. Data analysis
4. Data science
5. Analytic tools

Emerging technologies

The rise of automation, machine learning, artificial intelligence and data visualisation is a double-edged sword for accountants. On the one hand, these technologies will make your job simpler, freeing up time for us to do the work you love. On the other, they will – potentially – make you easier to replace. So, you need to make sure you work alongside these technologies to find new ways to add value to your organisation.

6. Machine learning
7. Robotic process automation
8. Artificial intelligence and intelligence augmentation
9. Data preparation, transformation and infrastructure
10. Data visualisation

Future disruptors

Blockchain, cryptocurrency and self-serve analytics – despite their risks - do offer potential opportunities to accountants and finance professionals. They also have the potential, one day, to be a major disruptor in almost every industry. It may be a little while until these digital innovations significantly impact your day-to-day role, but it's worth getting a head start.

11. Blockchain technology
12. Bitcoin and cryptocurrency
13. Deep learning
14. Embedded and self-serve analytics

Digital transformation

Technology is continuing to change the face of finance - and you need to keep up. Work through how to start devising a digital transformation strategy. Look at how to proactively lead and manage change yourself, rather than just reacting to it. Start to reflect on how to digitise key processes, products and services where possible, to add value to your organisation.

15. Digital transformation: The role of finance
16. Developing a digital transformation strategy
17. Managing digital change
18. Digitising internal processes
19. Digitising products and services

Where do you fit in?

Take a closer look at which of the elements of the digital revolution accountants and finance professionals will find most relevant. Reflect on what the topics covered in this certificate mean for you in the real world, and how you should bring everything you've learned together to approach new technologies in your own business or practice.

20. Review