TCH2604. Data You Can Trust: The Missing Foundation for AI in CPA Firms

CPA firms are moving fast with AI, but most are trying to layer it on top of scattered data, inconsistent workflows, and years of workarounds. This session shows how to fix that foundation without turning it into a massive project. You’ll learn how to build a smarter data ecosystem that supports accuracy, efficiency, and practical AI adoption.
We start by looking at the real issues firms are dealing with today. Files live in too many places. Core data like client info, engagement setup, and workpapers isn’t defined the same way across teams. Processes vary by partner. Staff spend too much time looking for information, reworking tasks, and navigating unclear systems. These challenges existed before AI, but AI is now magnifying them.
From there, we introduce a simple framework you can apply immediately. The first layer is data governance, which gives your firm clarity about what data matters, who owns it, and what “good” looks like. The second layer is process quality. When steps, handoffs, and workflows are consistent, you reduce rework and make it possible for automation to perform reliably. The third layer is enablement. With good data and better flow, you can start unlocking real AI gains, such as faster prep work, improved review, and more confidence in final outputs.
You’ll work through a real firm scenario that highlights how governance, process, and automation come together. In small groups, you’ll identify the root cause, define the data owners, outline the process fixes, and consider a small AI win that becomes possible once the foundation is in place. The exercise gives you a practical feel for how this framework works in day-to-day situations.
The session closes with a three-week action plan you can take back to your firm. Week one focuses on choosing one data domain to clean up and assigning ownership. Week two walks through mapping and improving one workflow. Week three offers simple automation or AI ideas that show quick impact without requiring a major investment. This plan is realistic for firms of any size and helps build momentum without overwhelming staff.
You’ll leave with a clearer view of what a smarter data ecosystem looks like and how it supports reliable AI. You’ll also have a practical starting point to begin improving your firm’s data, processes, and decision-making.
By the end of the session, you’ll understand why good data is your firm’s greatest asset, why process consistency matters more than ever, and how small, thoughtful steps can set you up for better AI use and better results for clients and staff.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will be able to describe the three-layer framework for building a smarter data ecosystem (data governance, process quality, and enablement) and explain how each layer supports accurate, consistent, and AI-ready firm operations.
• Participants will be able to analyze a real-world firm scenario to identify root-cause data and workflow issues, assign appropriate data owners, and outline targeted process improvements that reduce rework and support automation.
• Participants will be able to develop a three-week action plan that prioritizes a key data domain, maps and improves one workflow, and selects a small, high-impact automation or AI enhancement to demonstrate early value.