Today I’m speaking with Cloudoffis co-founders Viral Kanabar and Manish Sheladia

In this episode, we talk about . . .

• Cloudoffis' journey from SMSF audit automation to AI-first tax workpaper solution, TaxSorted.

• Their goal is to create a complete cloud-based operating system for accounting firms.

• The shift from manual processes (PDFs, Excel) to seamless AI-enhanced workflows.

• The importance of integrations with BGL, Class, FYI Docs, and the ATO.

• Key challenges facing accounting firms: time poverty, tech adoption hesitation, and rising compliance pressures.

• Cloudoffis’ approach to fostering startup culture internally with hackathons and open innovation.

• Vision for accountants to evolve into business analysts and trusted advisors, moving beyond data entry.

• Viral's reflections on attending leadership events and staying energized.

• Plans for international expansion into the US, UK, and Canada.

Key Takeaways:

• Automation and AI can free accountants from repetitive tasks, enabling more strategic advisory work.

• Building contextual, seamless AI into workflows is key to improving both efficiency and client outcomes.

• Collaboration with tech partners and embracing startup thinking drives ongoing innovation.

Cloudoffis began its journey by supporting SMSF auditors and accountants with automated workflows, work papers, and collaboration tools that drive efficiency, compliance, and standardisation across their practices. With over 20% of Australian SMSFs now audited through the Cloudoffis platform, Cloudoffis has become the trusted brand for more than 2,000 auditing and accounting firms across Australia.

In 2024, due to popular demand from tax teams looking for the same benefits their SMSF teams were experiencing, Cloudoffis launched Tax Sorted - a new AI-first tax work paper. Tax Sorted streamlines the preparation, review, and approval of tax work papers for both businesses and individuals, enhancing efficiency and compliance across the Australian accounting market.

Contact details:

Viral Kanabar https://www.linkedin.com/in/kanabarviral/

Manish Sheladia https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheladia/

Cloudoffis https://cloudoffis.com.au/

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://HeatherSmithAU.COM

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Today I’m speaking with Colin Hewitt, Founder & CEO of Float

In this episode, we talk about . . .

• Evolution of cash flow forecasting from spreadsheets to intelligent cash flow platforms.

• Differences between direct and indirect cash flow forecasting.

• Float’s shift to support fractional CFOs and the growing need for 13-week forecasts.

• New features in Float:
  
  

• • 13-week forecasting reports with click-to-detail functionality.

  • Consolidated cash flow view for multi-entity businesses.

  • Enhanced PDF reporting capabilities.

  • Upcoming VAT & GST forecasting features.

  • AI-driven expected payment dates and "intelligent cash flow".
    
    

• Importance of embracing AI internally and the concept of becoming an "AI-first" company.

• Colin’s experience launching The New F Word podcast, focusing on the rise of fractional CFOs.

• Building visibility via LinkedIn thought leadership.

Key Takeaways:

• Cash flow tools should integrate seamlessly with reporting stacks, not replace them.

• Fractional CFOs face context-switching challenges Float aims to solve.

• AI offers new efficiencies but requires thoughtful, user-focused implementation.

Contact details:

Float: https://www.floatapp.com/

Colin Hewitt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinphewitt/

The New F*Word (F for Fractional Finance) https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-new-f-word-f-for-fractional-finance/id1779512563

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://HeatherSmithAU.COM

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Today I’m speaking with Ryan Pearcy, founder of Digital Transformers and co-host of the Digi-Tools in ACCruel World podcast.

Background: From theoretical physicist to chartered accountant with a passion for cloud technology

From Theory to Tech: Ryan shares his journey from theoretical physics to founding Digital Transformers, helping accounting firms streamline systems and gain smarter insights

Digital Transformation vs. App Advisory: Why true transformation is about processes, not just plugging in apps

Fixing the Wild West: Ryan’s mission to bring quality, accreditation, and structure to digital advisory services within the profession

Partnering with ICAEW: Efforts to integrate digital transformation into formal accounting practice standards

AI’s Impact: How AI is reshaping client relationships—from advice to assurance—and why pricing models need to evolve

Top Tools Mentioned:

• FYI, FuseSign, Xero – for practice and financial management

• ApprovalMax – to streamline approvals and bring in purchase order controls

• Addfin – flexible payment options

• Fathom – advanced reporting

• Active Workpapers – modernising workpaper processes
  
  

Pro Tips for Firms: Start with expense management automation, consider phased system rollouts, and never underestimate the value of post-implementation support

Stay Ahead: Ryan recommends using tools like Feedly and following communities like Digital Disruptors to keep pace with evolving tech

Get Involved:

• Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E%99%EF%B8%8F-ryan-pearcy-a3883a34/

• Follow the Digital Disruptors newsletter and live sessions

• Listen to the DigiTools in ACCruel World podcast

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting