Start with preparation work someone can check: gathering support, organizing open items and drafting from verified figures. Look for one specific burden, not a plan to automate the department.
Isn’t this one more project for a team with no time?
It can be. Ask which part of the job gets easier without adding more checking for the same person.
1. Three places to look.
Gather support. Assemble the documents, dates and references a reviewer needs.
Organize open items. Group unresolved items and missing information without clearing them.
Draft the explanation. Turn verified figures and approved notes into a first draft someone can review.
Practical check: Preparing an item for review is not the same as clearing it.
2. Fix the bottleneck, then choose the tool.
A missing handoff. Clarify who supplies the information, and when.
A repeated rule. Check existing system functions, formulas or ordinary automation.
Messy information. Consider AI where interpretation adds value and the result can be checked.
Practical check: An agent is an option, not the starting requirement.
3. Write a one-page brief.
- Task
- Which repeated step needs help?
- Inputs
- What approved information is available?
- Result
- What should the reviewer receive?
- Owner
- Who checks it and resolves exceptions?
- Decision
- What would justify keeping the change?
Practical check: Count the effort to set up, review and maintain it.
Read more: Where Finance Still Re-Enters Data · A Finance AI Pilot Your Controller Can Evaluate
This is general guidance, not accounting advice.