Accounting and Artificial Intelligence: History, Challenges, and the Road Ahead

As an academic and researcher, I have witnessed how accounting has been part of human history since the earliest civilizations, constantly adapting to social, economic, and technological change. Yet today, the arrival of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation is accelerating a shift unlike anything we have seen before, redefining the accountant’s role and raising critical challenges for education.

In my article "The evolution of accounting practice in the age of artificial intelligence: challenges and opportunities for higher education in public accounting", published in Cuadernos de Administración, Universidad del Valle and available via its official DOI, I bring together history, technology, and educational reform to explore this transformation.

I trace accounting’s roots from Mesopotamia and Egypt, through milestones like the Ottoman Empire’s Merdiban method and Luca Pacioli’s double-entry bookkeeping, to the technological revolution of Industry 4.0. This historical perspective reveals that the link between accounting and technology is nothing new—but today its speed and impact are unprecedented.

I show how AI and automation have freed accountants from repetitive tasks, enabling them to take on strategic roles: data analysis, decision-making support, risk management, sustainability reporting, and systems auditing. Far from being a threat, this shift is an opportunity to reposition our profession at the heart of value creation within organizations.

 

 

However, I also warn about accounting myopia. Many higher education institutions in Latin America still train accountants under a traditional technical model, leaving them unprepared for a digital and globalized business world. This creates a gap between what is taught and what the job market demands.

My proposal is to modernize curricula by incorporating technological skills (AI, big data, blockchain), critical thinking, language proficiency, and knowledge in business management and marketing. This way, accountants can become the bridge between technology and corporate goals.

I also stress the importance of lifelong learning and collaboration with technology professionals to innovate, strengthen information security, and anticipate risks. In today’s fast-changing business environment, the true value of an accountant lies in interpreting data, making decisions, and leading strategically.

I invite you to read the full article, where I develop these ideas and present concrete actions for the profession’s future. You can find it in Cuadernos de Administración or via its official DOI.