Reflections from the CCH Connections User Conference 2024: Embracing Innovation in Accounting

The 2024 CCH Connections User Conference has just wrapped up, and the energy there this week was palpable! This annual event is always a highlight for accounting professionals and tech enthusiasts like myself, providing an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate. As a Lead Technology Product Manager at Wolters Kluwer, this is my favorite time of year to engage with peers, discuss innovative solutions, and dive deep into the evolving landscape of accounting technology.

Building Connections and Learning from the Best

The sessions were incredibly insightful, ranging from hands-on training with tools like CCH Axcess to discussions on tax, audit or firm management best practices. But what really stands out this year is the collective focus on digital transformation, AI, and automation—topics that are not only shaping the future of accounting but are also the foundation of my upcoming book series, AI-Powered Accounting: Strategies for the Digital Age. Seeing how AI and technology are being discussed by top industry leaders reaffirms the critical role these innovations will play in the future of our profession.

The Role of AI in Accounting: A Central Theme

As I attend sessions on AI-driven automation and data security, I’m reminded of key themes from The Automated Accountant, the first book in my series. The discussions happening here at CCH Connections align perfectly with the concepts I explore in my book—how AI is streamlining tax compliance, enhancing client services, and transforming financial strategy.

One of the highlights was seeing how accounting firms are leveraging AI to make more informed decisions faster, reduce manual tasks, and create new opportunities for advisory services. These real-world examples are a testament to the core message in my book: AI isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer for accountants looking to stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.

Extending the Conversation: My Blog and Website

If you attended CCH Connections—or if you’re simply following along virtually—I encourage you to continue the conversation beyond the conference. On my website, AI Powered Accounting, I regularly post insights and resources about the very topics being discussed here at the conference—automation, AI, and the future of accounting.

I’ve also shared a free guide, AI-Driven Strategies to Revolutionize Tax Compliance, that outlines actionable steps for firms to begin integrating AI into their practices. It’s a perfect companion to the discussions at CCH Connections and to The Automated Accountant. You can download it for free on my Resources page.

Looking Ahead

As the CCH Connections User Conference wraps up, I’m looking forward to more meaningful conversations, product demos, and insights. Whether you were here in person or engaging online, there’s never been a more exciting time to embrace the future of accounting technology.

And as we return to our firms and apply the learnings from this event, remember: the future is already here. Tools like CCH Axcess and AI-driven solutions are empowering firms to redefine what’s possible in accounting. It’s up to us to seize the opportunity and lead our firms into the next generation of digital transformation.

Be sure to follow my blog for ongoing updates after the conference and insights from my upcoming books in the AI-Powered Accounting series. Together, we can pioneer the future of accounting.

Check out my blog and resources on AI in accounting here: AI Powered Accounting