Industry insights | Senior living | Financial management

Accounting Industry Trends to Be Aware Of

July 10, 2024

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4 Must-Know Accounting Industry Trends 

With technological advancements, traditional accounting methods are becoming obsolete, paving the way for solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency. Accountants, small business owners, and finance professionals must stay updated with these accounting industry trends to remain competitive.  

1. Simplifying Fund Accounting and Technology for Expanded Insights and Tracking 

One of the biggest accounting industry trends right now is simplifying fund accounting using software that streamlines processes, reporting, and more. This can be especially beneficial for the unique needs of nonprofits. 

Due to fund restrictions and grant tracking, nonprofit organizations often need help managing their finances. Simplified nonprofit accounting and technology solutions, such as Sage Intacct, offer specialized tools to streamline these processes. With features like a multidimensional ledger and automated accounts payable, nonprofits can efficiently manage funds, ensuring compliance and transparency. 

Streamlined Reporting 

Accounting software for senior living centers in the nonprofit sector, especially, can maximize efficiency and expand insights into their communities through comprehensive reports on:  

  • Occupancy 
  • Resident rosters 
  • Census data 
  • Costs 
  • Finance 
  • Medication management 

Enhanced Grant Tracking and Billing 

Grant tracking can be complex, but advanced accounting software simplifies the process. Organizations can easily monitor grant expenditures and ensure funds are used appropriately by automating billing and tracking. This transparency not only satisfies donors but also builds trust within the community. 

Improved Reporting and Compliance 

Accurate reporting is crucial for nonprofits to demonstrate their impact. Simplified accounting and technology solutions provide real-time insights, enabling organizations to generate comprehensive reports quickly.  

2. Using Real-Time Insights to Drive Decision Making 

Advanced accounting software provides real-time insights that enable organizations to make informed decisions quickly. Access to up-to-date financial data allows for better strategic planning and forecasting, ensuring businesses stay ahead of market trends. 

Enhanced Visibility 

Real-time reporting offers greater visibility into financial performance. Dashboards and analytics tools provide a comprehensive view of critical metrics, helping organizations identify opportunities and address challenges promptly. 

Improved Financial Health 

With real-time insights, businesses can more effectively monitor cash flow, manage budgets, and track expenses. This proactive approach to financial management ensures long-term sustainability and growth, positioning organizations for success in a dynamic market. 

3. Combining AI with Accounting to Automate and Free Up Time 

Artificial intelligence (AI) can automate high-volume, repetitive tasks, which means less tedious work for accountants and a reduced likelihood of errors. AI can take on tasks like data entry, invoice processing, and reconciliation, allowing accountants to focus on more strategic tasks.  

Enhancing Accuracy and Compliance 

Automating routine tasks through AI can significantly reduce labor costs and minimize errors. Tools like Sage Intacct, for example, can help ensure compliance with regulations. Upholding accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards will reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes.  

Transforming Member Service 

AI tools also enhance member relationships by providing personalized insights and recommendations. Accountants can offer customized advice based on real-time data, improving member satisfaction and loyalty.  

4. Shift to Cloud Accounting and Technology for Accessibility and Flexibility 

Cloud accounting solutions offer unparalleled accessibility and flexibility. Accountants can access financial data anytime, facilitating remote work and collaboration. This flexibility is valuable for senior living communities and nonprofits, which often operate with limited resources.  

Secure Data Storage 

Security is a top concern, especially when navigating members’ health and financial information. Cloud accounting platforms automatically employ security measures to protect sensitive information and ensure data integrity and confidentiality. 

Additionally, Sage Intacct's healthcare accounting software, equipped with Advanced Audit Trail, is fully HIPAA compliant. Sage Intacct's Advanced Audit Trail ensures strict monitoring of access to sensitive protected health information (PHI) in contact, customer, and vendor records, regardless of the method used to view or retrieve the data. These security measures have been certified to meet HIPAA standards, ensuring the utmost protection of sensitive health information.  

Scalability 

Cloud accounting and technology solutions are scalable, so organizations can easily upgrade their plans and add features, ensuring their accounting systems evolve with their needs.  

Competitive Advantage 

By staying informed about the latest accounting industry trends and leveraging innovative tools, finance professionals can increase productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. Explore these trends and take proactive steps to integrate them into your operations.   

See How Sage Intacct is Staying Ahead of Accounting Industry Trends 

Consider signing up for a free demo of Sage Intacct today for more detailed insights and personalized advice. Our expert team is here to help you navigate the evolving accounting and technology landscape and achieve your organizational goals. 


Josh Kozinski

Josh Kozinski

Meet Josh Kozinski, the Director of Business Development at enSYNC. With expertise in Sage Intacct, iMIS, and supporting technologies, Josh's mission is to simplify complex processes by transforming rogue spreadsheets and databases into streamlined, automated solutions. His dedication to delivering strategic solutions aligns perfectly with enSYNC's commitment to efficient and innovative nonprofit management. Josh is not just a leader at enSYNC; he's actively involved in prominent industry organizations. By staying connected with these networks, Josh remains at the forefront of industry trends and best practices. In addition to his professional pursuits, Josh serves on the Board of Directors for the Dallas Fort Worth Association Executives, giving back to the industry he's passionate about. Away from the office, Josh is an athlete at heart. He pursued his college education at Central Michigan, where he played basketball. However, what Josh values most is his relationships with his family and his faith in God. Josh is always open to discussions, whether you're seeking innovative solutions for nonprofit management, exploring industry trends, or simply connecting with like-minded professionals.