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Robotic Process Automation

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) uses software to enable the automation of activities by accessing user interfaces without touching underlying programmes. Find out more how the technology is being used in finance.

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Articles and features

Understanding AI: what is – and isn’t – artificial intelligence?
  • Article
  • 05 Nov 2024
An in-depth awareness of AI is no longer the preserve of data science professionals or technology enthusiasts. In the first of two articles, BDO’s Paul Ekwere explains what AI actually is – and what it isn’t.
Partnering effectively with AI, part 1: choosing a solution
  • Article
  • 16 Oct 2024
Before you can think about partnering with an AI tool, you will need to have a clear understanding of which use case(s) you want it to answer.
What digital tools are auditors adopting?
  • Article
  • 06 Jun 2023
New tools are transforming the audit process. We take a look at what’s popular and what tools could soon be deployed in auditing.
The importance of culture in the adoption of robotics and manufacturing
  • Article
  • 04 Mar 2022
In this article, we hear from Jack Semple, who runs the Engineering and Machinery Alliance (EAMA) and is a member of the ICAEW Manufacturing Community Advisory Group.
Robotic process automation: a vision of the future
  • Article
  • 21 Feb 2022
It’s a hot topic in finance right now. Rob Binns, CFO at Access Group, discusses why accountants should embrace, not fear, the acceleration of digital transformation.
Exclusive Robotic process automation
  • Article
  • 30 Sep 2021
Automation can help process increasing volumes of data, give an opportunity for upskilling to data science, computer programming and project management, and allow accountants to spend more time with clients.
Exclusive How to get the most out of technology in audit
  • Article
  • 30 Jun 2021
Technology has the power to enhance audit quality and efficiency. Lesley Meall explains the risks and explores some of the possibilities with the greatest potential.
Exclusive How common data modelling is revolutionising audit
  • Article
  • 02 Dec 2020
Even the smallest of firms can benefit from applying common data modelling to audit processes, says Shamus Rae.
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Guidance

ICAEW Evolution of mid-tier accountancy firms 2024
  • Report
  • 23 May 2024
  • PDF (1,466kb)
ICAEW's latest research reveals the polarised reactions to private equity funding within the sector, as well as expectations for profit growth and shifts in services lines over the next three years.
Exclusive The essential guide to robotic process automation
  • Report
  • 30 Dec 2020
Robotic process automation (RPA) can save organisations' time, with tasks performed with higher speed and accuracy, as well as removing the risk of human error. However, it is not suitable for all processes and, in some cases, could act as a sticking plaster for a system that needs to be re-engineered.
Exclusive The essential guide to data protection when outsourcing
  • Helpsheets and support
  • 25 Nov 2019
  • PDF (318kb)
It is often said that data is the new oil – the raw material that drives industry in so many ways. Like all resources, data needs to be used wisely and protected. This guide looks at protecting data when using outsourced services.
AI in Corporate Advisory
  • Report
  • 28 Jun 2019
  • PDF (2,199kb)
The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on finance and business will be profound. The Corporate Finance Faculty has been tracking the application of AI to ‘big data’ in corporate transactions.
Exclusive RPA in finance an ICAEW guide
  • Helpsheets and support
  • 31 Jul 2018
  • PDF (237kb)
This guide aims to help finance professionals considering implementing robotic process automation (RPA). It is based on meetings with ICAEW members with first-hand RPA experience supplemented with wider research.
How do you audit a robot?
  • Helpsheets and support
  • 23 Mar 2018
Guidance for internal auditors on how to provide assurance over the key risks involved in implementing robotic process automation (RPA).
Exclusive How do you audit a robot
  • Report
  • 19 Mar 2018
  • PDF (1,916kb)
Guidance for internal auditors on providing assurance over robotic process automation (RPA).
Exclusive RPA in Finance - a promising investment, but beware the hype
  • Report
  • 01 Mar 2018
  • PDF (295kb)
A report of the discussions of a meeting with finance professionals of large organisations who see the potential for significant benefits from RPA and are running pilots to assess the feasibility of reducing costs and improving accuracy, quality, timeliness and drill-down.

Webinars and recordings

Process mining 101: The key to digital transformation
  • Webinar
  • 23 May 2024
Discover the fundamental principles of process mining, along with common use cases and tools to support effective adoption.
Essentials Virtual CPD 2020 The impact of digital technologies on the finance professional Part 1
  • Video
  • 14 Dec 2021
Tech essentials Robotic Process Automation
  • Video
  • 04 Aug 2021
Tech Essentials - Robotic Process Automation
  • Webinar
  • 10 Sep 2019
Robotic Process Automation has the potential to significantly change the working lives of many people.
Getting started with RPA - pilot projects
  • Webinar
  • 18 Sep 2018
Alison Spottiswoode and Tim Grassam, from RPA software provider Blue Prism, offer practical insights into how to set up and run pilot robotic process automation projects in your organisation, drawing on the firm's 10 years of experience.
Implementing robotics - realising the potential for automation
  • Webinar
  • 18 May 2018
There are now a growing number of finance functions using process robotics and automation to automate accounting routines. In this webinar, David Wright, Consultant at Deloitte, explores a number of case studies of how this is being done and lessons learned.
Implementing robotics: realising the potential for automation
  • Webinar
  • 15 May 2018
There are now a growing number of finance functions using robotic process automation (RPA) to automate accounting routines. In this webinar, David Wright, a Consultant at Deloitte, explores a number of case studies of how this is being done and lessons learned.

Training on tech

ICAEW offers a variety of online and in-person training courses on a range of technology related issues, including data analytics and artificial intelligence.
Excel elearning series
  • eLearning module
ICAEW has created a six-part online learning course to help ensure you have the Excel knowledge and skills required to progress through the first three levels of the ICAEW Spreadsheet Competency Framework. The modules explain skills, techniques, tips and shortcuts to use Excel more productively and enable you to create more robust spreadsheets that deliver increased impact.
Innovating finance with AI (Virtual)
  • Course
A guide to digital technologies and their impact. This immersive course empowers accountants with strategies to implement key technologies like automation, AI and advanced analytics.
ICAEW Data Analytics Certificate
  • Promotional material
ICAEW Data Analytics Certificate programme will help you combine your commercial acumen and business knowledge with data analytics expertise.
Finance in a Digital World
  • Promotional material
Finance in a Digital World is our e-learning programme produced with Deloitte that looks at how technology is driving finance transformation.
Browse ICAEW courses

Further resources

Resources
Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence

Discover more about the impact of artificial intelligence and the opportunities it presents for the accountancy profession. Access articles, reports and webinars from ICAEW and resources from tech experts.

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ICAEW
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Events and courses

Browse a list of ICAEW CPD courses covering technology, across virtual, in-person and elearning options, and see a list upcoming technology focused events.

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Resources
Digital skills
Digital skills

Technology has enabled automation of many elements of accountancy and this provides an opportunity for chartered accountants to utilise their professional skills but also the need to add to them. Find out more

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