The AI Paradox: Firms Are Excited About AI, But Few Are Taking Action
AI is transforming the accounting industry, promising increased efficiency, automation, and deeper client insights. Yet, according to the State of AI in Accounting Report 2025 by Karbon, 85% of accounting professionals express excitement about AI, but only 37% are actively investing in AI training.
This gap—enthusiasm without action—creates a challenge but also an opportunity. Firms that fail to invest in AI training risk falling behind, while those that embrace it are unlocking measurable efficiencies. The report shows that firms prioritizing AI training save an average of 66 minutes per employee per day—the equivalent of nearly seven weeks per year.
Why Firms Are Hesitant
From my experience working with firms across the industry, I’ve seen firsthand how firms struggle to move from AI interest to AI implementation. The hesitation often stems from:
Data security concerns – Fear of exposing sensitive client information.
Lack of clear strategy – Uncertainty around where to start and how to integrate AI meaningfully.
Absence of AI policies – Without clear guidelines, firms are unsure how to adopt AI responsibly.
Job displacement worries – Uncertainty about how AI will reshape roles.
But avoiding AI isn’t the solution. The firms that experiment, train their teams, and integrate AI intentionally will lead the future of accounting.
Without clear AI policies, firms risk inconsistency, security concerns, and missed opportunities. The right approach isn’t avoidance—it’s leadership. Firms that take the lead in establishing AI guidelines will drive responsible adoption, enhance efficiency, and position themselves as trusted advisors in the evolving landscape.Bridging the AI Gap: What Firms Can Do
To move from excitement to meaningful AI adoption, take the following steps:
✔ Prioritize AI Training Don’t just talk about AI—invest in education and skill-building so teams can confidently and effectively use AI tools.
✔ Adopt Safe Experimentation Start small with AI-driven research, automation, and client communication tools to build confidence.
✔ Develop and Implement an AI Policy
Having an AI policy ensures staff use AI responsibly. Think of it not as a cage but as a safe playground where your team can experiment, learn, and innovate without fear of misusing the technology. A well-defined policy should address:
What AI tools can be used and for what purposes.
Security and compliance considerations.
Ethical standards and limitations.
✔ Use AI to Enhance, Not Replace, Human Expertise AI should complement, not replace, the services firms provide. By automating routine tasks, firms free up professionals to spend more time on high-value client interactions.
Beyond Firms: Helping Business Clients Adopt AI
AI isn’t just a game-changer for accounting firms—it’s also transforming how businesses operate. Many businesses are facing the same AI paradox—they’re interested in AI but unsure where to start. Firms that embrace AI internally will be better positioned to guide their clients through similar challenges, including:
Helping clients develop AI adoption strategies and policies
Advising on AI-powered financial forecasting, automation, and reporting tools
Assisting clients in navigating data security and compliance concerns
By taking the lead, firms can not only strengthen their own efficiency and expertise but also further position themselves as trusted advisors for their business clients.
Looking Ahead
The firms that bridge the gap between excitement and action will set the standard for the next era of accounting. AI isn’t a trend—it’s a tool for smarter, more efficient, and more impactful organizations.
Developing AI policies, training teams, and fostering a culture of innovation will separate those that thrive from those that struggle to keep up. The question is: will your firm embrace the change?
Would you like to explore how AI can be integrated into your firm’s workflow?