The Accounting Technology Lab

In this memorable and surprisingly emotional episode of the Accounting Technology Lab, Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley reflect on the “dead pool” of accounting and business software — products that have already disappeared or are approaching end-of-life support. The conversation blends humor, nostalgia, and serious operational warnings for accounting firms still relying on aging technology.The hosts honor legacy products such as Microsoft Office Accounting, Creative Solutions Accounting, Great Plains, QuickBooks Point of Sale, Peachtree for DOS, and many others that shaped the accounting profession over decades. They also discuss looming deadlines for products including Microsoft Publisher, Office 2021, Windows 10, and File Cabinet CS from Thomson Reuters.A major focus of the episode is the hidden danger of delayed software migrations. Brian explains the enormous complexity firms may face when converting legacy document management systems, especially File Cabinet CS, where documents are stored page-by-page as images requiring reconstruction and re-indexing.The hosts warn that firms are “burning daylight” if they wait too long to begin planning these migrations.The episode ultimately serves as both a tribute to past innovations and a practical wake-up call for firms needing to modernize before support deadlines create operational disasters.

In this episode of the Accounting Technology Lab, Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley welcome Donny Shimamoto of the Center for Accounting Transformation and high school student Arpan Grewal to discuss one of the accounting profession’s most urgent challenges: recruiting the next generation of talent.The conversation explores how outdated perceptions of accounting continue to discourage students from entering the profession. Arpan shares her candid perspective as a student who originally viewed accounting as “boring” and restrictive before discovering its broader opportunities through the Center for Accounting Transformation. Through mentorship, podcasting, and exposure to professionals in the industry, she realized accounting can serve as a launchpad into entrepreneurship, advocacy, leadership, finance, and innovation.Donny explains how the profession must shift from promoting compliance-focused work to highlighting advisory, technology, and purpose-driven careers. The discussion also emphasizes how AI and automation are empowering accountants rather than replacing them, allowing younger professionals to contribute strategically much earlier in their careers.The episode introduces the Student Ambassador Program, a peer-driven initiative designed to connect students with accounting professionals and modernize the profession’s image. Together, the guests deliver a compelling message: accounting offers purpose, flexibility, stability, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in business and society.Catchy Quotes from the Episode“Accountants are the interstitium of business. They connect business together.”  - Randy Johnston 2:05“What we’re really trying to do is help people be successful.” — Donny Shimamoto 4:20“Accounting is not what it looks like.” — Arpan Grewal 7:35“Accounting truly is a huge launchpad career.” — Arpan Grewal 8:10“AI is not taking our jobs. It’s actually upgrading us accountants.” — Arpan Grewal 12:05“It’s okay if you don’t stay in accounting for the rest of your life.” — Arpan Grewal 13:20“Students trust other students more than they trust adult-run programs.” — Arpan Grewal 21:05“We’re creating entry points instead of barriers into the profession.” — Arpan Grewal 21:35“The accounting profession can actually be so much more rewarding.” — Randy Johnston 24:25“Invest in students now before we lose them to other professions.” — Arpan Grewal 23:40

In this episode of the Accounting Technology Lab, hosts Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley explore the alarming implications of Anthropic’s experimental AI security model known as “Mythos.” The discussion centers on how advanced AI systems are dramatically accelerating cyberattack capabilities, vulnerability discovery, exploit chaining, and zero-day attacks. The hosts compare Mythos to a “cybersecurity nuclear bomb,” referencing reports that the model identified vulnerabilities at exponentially higher success rates than prior AI systems.The episode examines how AI-driven exploit development reduces the cost and time required for attackers to compromise systems, potentially threatening banks, corporations, governments, and critical infrastructure. The hosts discuss the rise of AI-generated malware, automated penetration testing, and the need for immediate patching strategies, stronger monitoring tools, and more aggressive cybersecurity practices.The conversation also highlights Anthropic’s cautious rollout strategy through “Project Glasswing,” involving major technology and security firms like Apple, Microsoft, Cisco, CrowdStrike, and JP Morgan. Beyond cybersecurity, the hosts warn of broader implications involving biosecurity, espionage, AI token economies, and the future of autonomous AI agents. Ultimately, the episode serves as both a warning and a call for organizations to modernize their cybersecurity posture before AI-powered attacks become mainstream.Catchy Quotes From the Episode2:40 “One man’s pen test is another man’s hacking.”5:19 “This new Mythos product is reported to have a 72.4% success rate.”8:58 “The concept of dumping thousands of high severity zero days onto the market all at once is really the cyber equivalent of nuclear war.”16:57 “The arguments you’re having about two-factor authentication… that party’s over.”19:21 “Instead of it taking days to do this, it’s now becoming hours.”20:25 “Who’s going to work Christmas to watch the vulnerabilities?”24:03 “The use of AI is changing software and technology in ways we didn’t see coming.”27:33 “A bad plan today is much better than a perfect plan tomorrow.”

In this episode of the Accounting Technology Lab, Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley tackle a critical strategic decision for accounting firms: whether to adopt an all-in-one software suite or build a best-of-breed technology stack. They explore how suites from providers like Thomson Reuters and Wolters Kluwer offer convenience through integrated workflows, unified interfaces, and simplified vendor management. However, these benefits often come with tradeoffs, including limited flexibility, higher switching costs, and potential vendor lock-in.On the other hand, best-of-breed solutions allow firms to select specialized tools tailored to their exact needs, particularly for advisory services and niche workflows. While integration tools like Zapier and Power Automate have made connecting systems easier, maintaining these integrations still requires effort and technical oversight.The hosts also highlight real-world considerations such as app overload, data governance, pricing pressures, cloud cost management, and the growing importance of AI-enabled tools. They emphasize the need to define a “system of record,” reduce duplicate data entry, and evaluate true ROI beyond licensing costs.Ultimately, the episode encourages firms to take a thoughtful, strategic approach—balancing efficiency, flexibility, and long-term scalability when designing their technology stack for 2026 and beyond.Key Quotes“You have one throat to choke for making all this stuff work together.” (02:00)“The cost of a divorce grows geometrically as you have more and more stuff on a platform.” (05:20)“Best of breed is like building a race car—you get exactly what you want, but it takes work.” (06:30)“It’s getting easier—but we didn’t say easy.” (08:05)“Stop typing the same data twice.” (13:00)“Pick one—ditch the other. Less applications is better.” (10:20)“If you’re giving Gen Z tools from 1979, they’re not going to stay.” (25:00)

In this episode of the Accounting Technology Lab, Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley explore how generative AI is actively reshaping accounting practices—not as a future concept, but as a present-day operational tool. They break down where AI is already embedded in workflows, from document processing and OCR to client communication, research, and advisory services. The discussion emphasizes that AI adoption is no longer optional for firms seeking efficiency and competitiveness.The hosts highlight practical use cases, including automating routine tasks, enhancing decision-making, and improving data extraction accuracy. They also caution listeners about critical considerations such as data security, privacy risks, and the importance of understanding how AI tools handle sensitive client information.A key theme is that firms must develop intentional strategies for AI adoption—choosing tools carefully, setting policies, and training staff to use AI responsibly. Rather than replacing professionals, AI augments their capabilities, allowing accountants to focus more on advisory and higher-value work.Ultimately, the episode encourages practitioners to experiment thoughtfully with AI, stay informed about rapid developments, and build governance frameworks to ensure ethical and effective use in their firms.Key Quotes“Generative AI has had a lot of traction over the last few years.” (00:01:49)“You need to think about how AI is appearing in your practice—and how you’ll use it going forward.” (00:02:07)“AI can already do more for you today than most firms are actually using.” (00:03:19)“One of the biggest concerns we hear is about the security of AI.” (00:09:42)“AI can help—but you still have to manage the process.” (00:24:57)“Firms need to be intentional about how they adopt AI tools.” (~00:25:30)Social Media Posts

In this episode of the Accounting Technology Lab, hosts Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley welcome CPA and entrepreneur Eric Eager to explore the emerging concept of Decision Intelligence—the next evolution beyond AI. While AI delivers probabilistic, text-based outputs, Eager explains that Decision Intelligence is deterministic, proactive, and auditable, combining AI, data science, business intelligence, and human expertise to guide better decisions.The discussion highlights a growing risk in the profession: overreliance on AI can create false confidence, leading to poor advisory outcomes and financial consequences. Gartner predicts that by 2027, a significant portion of AI-driven decisions could negatively impact businesses. Decision Intelligence addresses this by providing transparent audit trails, continuous monitoring, and prioritized recommendations, ensuring advisors remain “in the loop.”A key theme is the “confidence gap”—as experienced CPAs retire, younger professionals lack the confidence to deliver advisory services. Decision Intelligence bridges this gap by codifying expertise and enabling scalable, consistent advisory.Ultimately, the episode positions Decision Intelligence as a transformative force that empowers accountants to move beyond compliance work and fully embrace their role as trusted, high-impact advisors, reshaping the future of the profession.Catchy Quotes“Decision intelligence is the next evolution of AI.” (04:45)“AI is probabilistic… decision intelligence is deterministic.” (05:10)“You may be heading toward a brick wall—just at 100 miles an hour.” (11:20)“I’d rather have low confidence than false confidence.” (22:10)“We don’t know what we don’t know—and that’s why businesses fail.” (17:30)“This is the grand promotion for the accounting profession.” (13:40)“80% of decisions are executed and never measured.” (18:50)“Decision intelligence gives you an audit trail of how decisions are made.” (15:10)

This episode of the Accounting Technology Lab delivers a behind-the-scenes look at the 2026 CPA Practice Advisor Thought Leader Symposium, where leading voices in accounting technology gathered to discuss the profession’s future.Hosts Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley explore key themes including AI integration, “vibe coding,” private equity’s growing influence, and the evolution of client accounting services (CAS). A major takeaway was the rise of “vibe coding,” where AI enables non-developers to rapidly build functional applications—often in minutes—reshaping productivity and innovation.The discussion also highlights ongoing risks with AI, including hallucinations and legal concerns around data privacy. Private equity continues to reshape firm structures, while staffing challenges are increasingly driven by retirements rather than hiring shortages.Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that accountants are becoming more critical than ever as “truth filters” in a world of increasing misinformation. Firms must adapt, rethink workflows, and embrace advisory roles to remain competitive.Key TopicsAI integration in accounting firmsVibe coding and rapid application developmentPrivate equity impact on CPA firmsClient Accounting Services (CAS) evolutionStaffing and retirement trendsRisk management and advisory servicesLegal implications of AI usagePractice ERP and workflow transformationNotable Quotes“We had code written during the meeting in less than 10 minutes.” (06:00)“This world has more uncertainty than ever—which means we need more accountants than ever.” (08:40)“Today, every business is a startup because of AI.” (14:10)“AI lets me bridge the gaps in my knowledge and build things I couldn’t before.” (15:20)“The CPA is the ultimate truth-o-meter in an age of misinformation.” (29:10)“If I can get 70% of the lift done, that’s good enough for many clients.” (16:00)“There’s what you can do—and what people will let you do.” (18:40)

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss the current security and technology risks that accounting, tax, and other financial firms face.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss Microsoft Copilot, an AI-powered tool that combines the power of large language models (LLMs) with your data in the Microsoft Graph—your calendar, emails, chats, documents, meetings, and more.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss accounting automation tech with the co-founder of Bookkeep, Jason Richelson.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss client data security and the new FTC Safeguards Rule: IRS Pub 4557 (aka WISP).

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss the 2023 Accounting Firm Operations and Technology Survey (AFOT).

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, talk with Jeff Gramlich of Validis about changes in audit technology and the role of data.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss the recent Verizon data breach and what firms need to know and do to protect their firm and client data.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss the recent Scaling New Heights accounting conference.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss the pros and cons, as well as the technologies and liabilities, of outsourcing tax and accounting tasking.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss models for technology governance.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss technology trends for audits.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss the 2023 AICPA Engage conference. The largest annual event by the AICPA, Engage brings together professionals in all areas of practice for education, networking, and other events.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss DataSnipper, an Intelligent Automation Platform within Excel that accelerates Audit and Finance teams' productivity.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss the role that large language models play in AI.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, discuss the content quality in various AI generative content systems.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, CITP, CGMA discuss artificial intelligence generators Dall-E and MS-Designer.

Technologists Randy Johnston and Brian Tankersley, CPA, CITP, CGMA discuss the built-in artificial intelligence options in Microsoft's products.

Randy and Brian discuss the practical application of ChatGPT for accounting professionals, as well as the possible benefits, limitations and risks.