Accountants once spent their time doing manual entries and searching for mistakes, but that changed with the development of computer technology. In the digital era, accounting professionals can accomplish much more in much less time, and their focus has shifted toward analysis and consultation. Accountants can develop essential technological skills by earning an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accounting from Florida Institute of Technology.
Among chief financial officers in the United States, only 14% say their technology is fully aligned with their business strategy, according to a 2025 survey by Grant Thornton. Employers in an improving hiring landscape place a premium on recruiting and retaining accountants with advanced technology skills.
The Growing Importance of Technology in Accounting
Big data, analytics software, mobile devices, cloud computing, the “Internet of Things” and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are assuming larger roles in the practice of accounting. As organizations of all sizes embrace the insights provided by the new influx of data, technology is making it possible to better utilize resources, automate processes and turn information into guideposts for strategic decision-making.
Companies involved in the healthcare sector are also leveraging technology to comply with provisions of the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA). Electronic medical records, along with robust systems upgrades, have resulted in the availability of unprecedented caches of financial data for analysis by accounting professionals.
Technology Skills for Accountants
If the role of technology in the accounting profession is growing, what specific skills are employers likely to seek in candidates? Let’s consider just a handful of tech-related attributes that could make individuals, such as technical accounting managers, more competitive in the marketplace:
- Advanced Excel skills: Excel “power users” can leverage their skills to solve complex problems, analyze costs and convey information to stakeholders.
- Knowledge of business intelligence software: Software such as Cagnos, Birst and ProfitBase can help increase transparency and cut costs for better forecasting.
- Data analytics expertise: Advanced modeling techniques can add value by allowing for the handling of large amounts of data for competitive insights.
- Understanding of enterprise resource planning systems: Companies can lower operating costs, reduce cycle times and gain a competitive edge with ERP expertise.
- Experience with computing: Transitioning businesses to cloud computing can increase flexibility and efficiency.
Develop the Right Technology Skills to Succeed in Accounting
Technology is boosting the productivity and efficiency of accountants which, in turn, can bring improved results for employers and clients. As a result, there is growing demand for accounting professionals who possess a combination of educational qualifications, professional credentials and skill sets that include data analysis and business intelligence.
When it comes to technology, accountants — like the firms they serve — may face a simple choice: Adopt and adapt or fail. With courses like Business Computer Skills or Business Research Skills and Application, the online BA in Accounting program from Florida Tech will go a long way toward preparing today’s accountants for the future.
Learn more about Florida Institute of Technology’s Bachelor of Arts in Accounting program.
