Artificial intelligence in controlling: How the role of controllers is changing

The future belongs to the strategists

Controllers are becoming strategists

Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are fundamentally changing controlling. Processes that used to be carried out manually can now be automated more efficiently and with fewer errors. But does this mean the end of traditional controlling?

On the contrary! The role of controllers is not becoming obsolete - it is evolving. In future, they will spend less time on repetitive tasks and focus more on strategic analyses and decision support.

Automation is taking over routine tasks

According to a Deloitte study, 73 percent of financial decision-makers expect automation to significantly increase efficiency. This shows that AI and digital tools will permanently change finance departments

What does this mean for controlling?

Wie ändert sich die Rolle von ControllerInnen in Zeiten Künstlicher Intelligenz?
  • Less routine tasks: Data preparation, consolidation and standard reporting are increasingly automated.

  • Error minimization: The use of smart systems can significantly reduce human error in data collection and processing.

  • Real-time data availability: Controllers have faster access to up-to-date figures and can make more informed decisions.

The future of controlling: from number manager to strategy consultant

The elimination of many manual activities is fundamentally changing the role of controllers. They will focus more on the following tasks:

Data analysis and interpretation

AI can deliver figures - but interpretation remains the task of controllers. They will be increasingly in demand to gain valuable insights from complex data sets and communicate these to management in an understandable way.

 

Proactive controlling and forecasting

Modern controlling tools enable more precise forecasts and simulations. In future, controllers will increasingly focus on analyzing scenarios and optimally preparing companies for market changes through forward-looking planning.

 

Controller as an interface between technology and management

The controllers of tomorrow will act as a bridge between the finance department and management. They help to make data-driven decisions and derive strategic recommendations for action.

 

Controllers create added value for the company

By focusing more on strategic tasks, controllers become real business partners. They actively contribute to the further development of business models, recognize risks at an early stage and identify growth potential.