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Discover the future of accounting inside the Practice of Now 2020

Report

Read the latest independent accountant research with insights from 3,000+ accounting professionals worldwide. It covers topics like client demands, modern service offerings, and technologies such as automation.
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What is the Practice of Now?

The Practice of Now is vital reading for any professional who aims to overcome changes in the accounting profession. It provides guidance about what the accounting firm of the future will look like by revealing insights from today’s accountant and bookkeeper communities.

This year’s findings

Accountants and bookkeepers are disrupting their industries. We show how AI in accounting, changing regulations and a new generation entering the workforce, are all causing real change.

How did we do it?

For the fourth annual report, we:


  • Consulted more than 3,000 accounting professionals across the globe, in association with B2B research company Savanta
  • Included survey results from Coleman Parkes explaining how real businesses view the professionals providing their accounting, as well as insights about artificial intelligence
  • Asked UK accountants about their views on Making Tax Digital, open banking, the future of cloud accounting and artificial intelligence

Key statistics and findings for 2020

Practice of Now key statistic 70% icon: annulus with 87% filled and text in centre of ring: 70%
A majority of UK accountants say less data processing is Making Tax Digital’s most positive outcome.
Practice of Now key statistic 87% icon: annulus with 87% filled and text in centre of ring: 87%
Most accountants say clients expect better service levels – but no fee increase.
Practice of Now key statistic 69% icon: annulus with 69% filled and text in centre of ring: 69%
Over two thirds of accountants say firms need to increase technology adoption.

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An industry on the brink of positive change demands accountants understand their client needs and keep abreast of technologies like automation.


  • 83% of accountants agree that new technologies and a culture of digitalisation means they have had to invest more, and more quickly
  • 74% of accountants have formally reviewed their business practices in the last 12 months
Download the infographic
Practice of Now infographic cover image: illustration with data graphics and people showing understanding clients leads to better client relationships and increased productivity
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Advisory services

Changing client expectations, new technology, and a new generation are impacting how practices work. Of those we surveyed:


  • 79% of survey respondents are confident about providing business management and advisory services like cash flow management
  • 75% are confident about providing industry specific advice for clients, such as standard profit margins
  • 73% are confident about providing technology implementation recommendations like AI and automation

What's inside the Practice of Now 2020 report

This year’s report reveals an overwhelming majority of accountants recognise clients expect a diverse range of services and skills from them. Clients also expect accountants to understand disruptive technologies. Download the report and:

  • Learn how your practice can create growth in an industry undergoing unprecedented change
  • Understand the role of technology in accounting and how accountants respond to evolving client needs
  • Get insights into increasingly powerful technologies like automation
  • Discover what the accountant industry will look like by the end of the decade
Download your free report

Sage Advice for accountants

Read about the future of the accounting profession in our latest blog posts and articles.

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Accountants research from previous years

Over the last four years, the Practice of Now global accountancy survey has painted a picture of a landscape evolving to meet client needs. It’s also provided guidance for forward-thinking practices.

2019 Report

As the accounting profession prepares for the coming decade, core beliefs driving the profession should be re-evaluated.
Download the 2019 report

2018 Report

With the majority of clients expecting more, two thirds of accountants are turning to AI and automation.
Download the 2018 report

2017 Report

As technological advancements continue, accountants need to jump on board and harness change to bring opportunity.
Download the 2017 report