By The Public Purview

LAHORE: A new ACCA publication titled Digital Pathways Playbook: Accountants as leaders in digital adoption for SMEs shows that accountants are emerging as the key drivers of digital transformation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The playbook highlights how finance professionals can help SMES unlock AI-enabled growth by guiding digital adoption strategically.

Global survey reveals digital maturity trends

The publication is based on responses from 1,026 finance professionals across more than 100 countries. It maps six levels of SME digital maturity, beginning with paper-based processes and progressing toward AI-enabled operations. The playbook also offers practical guidance on how organisations can evolve sustainably through each stage.

Accountants seen as catalysts for AI adoption

Although only 4% of organisations currently operate at advanced automation, 41% expect to reach this level within three years. The research shows that when organisations take even small implementation steps, their digital skills improve and concerns about cost decline. Key barriers identified include cost (62%), skills (46%), and time (32%).

The playbook also features examples of real transformation across Malaysia, Africa, the United Kingdom and the UAE. It illustrates how finance teams are helping SMEs integrate technology, build reliable systems and adopt AI responsibly.

Finance-led digital decision-making

Aleksandra Zaronina-Kirillova, head of SME in ACCA’s policy and insights team, said that accountants are uniquely positioned to guide SME digital journeys because they understand business data, governance and financial risk.

Guidance and support for global SME growth

The ACCA playbook includes a Support Mechanisms Directory that lists funding opportunities, training programmes and advisory services available worldwide. These resources aim to help SMEs and their advisers strengthen digital capabilities with greater confidence.

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