Finance and accounting departments globally are present process a digital transformation, aiming to streamline and automate processes, as highlighted within the 2023 ISG Supplier Lens™ international Finance and Accounting Outsourcing (FAO) Companies report. The push for digitalization was notably accelerated by the COVID-19 lockdowns, which necessitated a shift from conventional strategies to accommodate distant work necessities.
The analysis signifies a rising reliance on exterior suppliers to help in formulating digital methods. Robert Stapleton, a associate at ISG, talked about, “Organizations are creating related finance groups with the know-how to gather and analyze bigger knowledge units for long-term decision-making.” This technological empowerment has positioned CFOs to play extra strategic roles inside their organizations.
The report additionally sheds mild on the challenges companies face resulting from disruptions because the pandemic, reminiscent of inflation and supply-chain points. To navigate these challenges, many are turning to new operational strategies and applied sciences. Notably, there is a surge within the adoption of instruments like SAP S/4HANA, generative AI, blockchain, and the metaverse. Recognizing the potential vulnerabilities of integrating these new applied sciences, there’s an emphasised deal with bolstering cybersecurity measures.
A major shift within the FAO sector is the desire for outcome-based contracts, the place each dangers and rewards of digital transformation are shared between corporations and FAO suppliers. Jan Erik Aase, international chief at ISG Supplier Lens Analysis, said, “FAO suppliers have gotten strategic companions that collaborate with purchasers along with delivering companies.”
Moreover, the report explores the significance of world supply fashions for FAO companies and emphasizes the necessity for clear methods surrounding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.
The excellent 2023 ISG Supplier Lens™ report evaluates 28 suppliers throughout 4 key areas: Procure to Pay (P2P), Order to Money (O2C), Document to Report (R2R), and Monetary Planning and Evaluation (FP&A). Main corporations reminiscent of Accenture, Capgemini, and Cognizant have been acknowledged as leaders in all quadrants.
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