¶ … Computers on the Accounting Profession / Future of Accounting Profession Computers are widely used today in the field of accounting; computing hardware (e.g., printers) and software find extensive application in the profession, as do security options, which are employed for the purpose of protecting client-related information. All accountants, including auditors, need to be tech savvy to remain competent in the future. Mobile devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, etc. are becoming key accounting tools, helping professionals with managing client services, as well as their everyday workloads. Technology will enable greater flexibility with regard to how, when and where job tasks are performed. On-site presence will lose its importance, as the aforementioned tools permit (and usually require) anywhere, anytime work (Branwell, 2015).

Within five years from now, the accounting industry, in particular, will witness a shift towards cloud-enabled technology. This is because tools like cloud-connected tablets and smartphones will allow companies to offer clients the facility of a 24/7 pocket-accountant. Information technology will be increasingly integrated into accounting systems over the coming five years. Accounting will witness a revamp, with accounting companies implementing cloud computing applications and systems, together with mobile and social computing, sophisticated analytical tools, and larger data sets. Intuit states that...

Though there will still be personal interaction with client, computers will render virtual accounting an industry standard. Clients will start expecting real-time services to be delivered at the place, time, and in the way they require. Online support systems and CRM (customer relationship management) will gain increasing importance (Branwell, 2015).
While one-on-one, high-touch dealings with client won't entirely stop, they will be improved through virtual collaboration and support. There will be increasing implementation of CRM, and automation of routine support tasks; clients will be offered the option of self-service (Branwell, 2015). Additionally, spreadsheet programs will become faster, more user-friendly, and more accurate than current ones. There will be more extensive usage of these programs by accounting professionals for keeping records of sales, inventory, and costs, forecasting and budgeting future expenditure and sales, etc. (Business Forum, 2015).

Consequently, spreadsheets will…