Recently, Kaplan’s Director of Growth, Matt Rawlins, sat down with Jamie Lane, an experienced audit partner at Saffery, to discuss the evolution of technology in the profession, the role of AI, and why data literacy is now a critical skill for every auditor.
Data and technology have transformed the way professional services operate, but the real challenge is knowing how to harness them effectively. The pace of change is only accelerating, as Jamie put it: “Most change in the next five years is probably going to be more advancement than the previous 22. AI is like another industrial revolution - it will change everything so quickly.”
Let’s take a closer look at what was discussed.
From ring binders to digital-first auditing
Matt began by asking how Jamie had seen the role of data and technology evolve over his career, particularly in mid-size firms.
Jamie recalled:
“When we started working together 22 years ago, we were working in ring binder folders. We had analysis pads, a green, red, and blue pen, and Tipp-Ex.”
Over time, those manual processes have been replaced by tools like Inflow for journal testing and management override, moving audit from static files to dynamic data analysis.
Jamie also noted that technological change is accelerating:
“Most change in the next five years is probably going to be more advancement than the previous 22. Artificial intelligence is like another industrial revolution - it will change everything so quickly, and ultimately, it’ll change what jobs are in accountancy.”
Technology that changes the way we work
When Matt asked about the tools that have made the biggest impact on audit delivery, Jamie pointed to two standouts:
“The big thing we use Inflow for is collaboration with clients. It’s revolutionised the way we collaborate and clients really like it.”
He also highlighted DataSnipper’s OCR technology, which automates previously time-consuming tasks like financial statement checks and sales testing:
“It’s doing it within five minutes - technology can take out some of the dull work.”
Matt reflected that this type of automation allows auditors to spend more time on value-adding activities, and more junior staff to gain experience in analysis rather than repetitive checks.
For firms, this shift doesn’t just improve employee engagement - it increases efficiency, frees capacity for higher-value client work, and can directly impact profitability.
The challenge of making data usable
Despite these tools, Matt asked about the biggest challenges teams face when working with client data.
Jamie was clear:
“Getting the right data out of a client system, and in the right format, is probably one of the biggest challenges.”
He explained how improving data literacy across audit teams is essential, not only for using software effectively but also for rethinking methodology.
Adoption barriers beyond the Big Four
Jamie noted that while a few firms are excelling, many outside the Big Four are still struggling with adoption:
“There are probably two or three smaller to mid-sized firms that are doing a really good job on it, but a number of organisations are really struggling.”
This underlines the need for targeted training and leadership buy-in - areas where Kaplan’s clients often see rapid impact from structured learning interventions.
AI as the next industrial revolution
Turning to AI, Matt asked how Jamie is using it day-to-day.
“I use Copilot - it’s turned two to three-hour tasks to 45 minutes.”
But the real challenge, as Jamie noted, is not the access to AI but training:
“You can give people the tools, but the only way you’re going to leverage the benefit of AI is by training people to do things differently.”
Matt noted that this is something Kaplan has also observed across many organisations we work with. Even when businesses invest in AI tools, the benefits are often underused without structured learning.
At Kaplan, we have tackled this internally by running a series of AI lunch and learn sessions, where colleagues can experiment with tools in a low-pressure environment, share use cases, and gradually build confidence over time.
“The idea is to meet people where they are,” Matt said. “We don’t expect everyone to be an AI expert from day one, but by introducing one concept at a time and giving people the chance to apply it in their work straight away, adoption becomes much smoother.”
Jamie agreed this practical approach is essential for embedding AI skills effectively.
Cultural and generational differences
The conversation also touched on the cultural side of AI adoption. Jamie pointed out that terms like “prompt engineering” can be alien to some professionals, and that different generations approach AI differently:
“From my experience, the average 20-year-old might just ask questions as they come up. Whereas, I’d need to have an instruction book.”
He compared it to education, where schools still focus heavily on handwriting despite the reality that most work is now done on keyboards.
For training providers and business leaders, this highlights the need for tailored learning approaches - blending hands-on experimentation for digital natives with structured, step-by-step guidance for those who prefer a more methodical approach. This is a principle Kaplan applies in both our apprenticeship programmes and in-house training, ensuring learning styles are matched to maximise adoption.
Looking ahead: skills that will set you apart
When asked what advice he’d give to someone entering the audit profession today, Jamie didn’t hesitate:
“The biggest skill that would probably set you apart would be to be as proficient in things like artificial intelligence and use it as a tool to help you, not to replace you. Do as much learning in this area as you possibly can.”
For Jamie, the future auditor needs to combine professional judgement with the ability to work seamlessly with technology - and that means continual upskilling.
Transform your workplace
Jamie’s experience underlines a key truth: adopting technology isn’t enough. Firms must invest in building data literacy, AI capability, and the confidence to challenge outdated processes.
At Kaplan, we support businesses with this transformation through apprenticeships, short courses, and bespoke in-house training - giving your teams the skills and confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing, data-driven world.
Explore our data and technology programmes or speak to our team about training that supports your strategy.