Accounting Apps Podcast

Inside WorkGuru: 7 Years Empowering SMEs with Real-Time Project Insights | Tony Harcourt

Tony Harcourt CEO & Co-Founder of WorkGuru
Tony Harcourt returns to chat with Heather about WorkGuru’s recent product updates, the challenges facing SMEs, and the role of automation and integrations in improving day-to-day operations.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Tony Harcourt CEO & Co-Founder of WorkGuru
WorkGuru is a Project Management solution tailored for SMEs in manufacturing, construction, engineering, and fabrication.
In this episode, we talk about . . .
 
WorkGuru Highlights:
Celebrating 7 years.
Focus on automating business workflows and enhancing project visibility.
Feature Releases Discussed:
Workflows Engine: Automate project actions (e.g. invoice alerts, follow-ups).
Scheduling Optimization: Drag-and-drop team allocation with load visibility.
Gantt Charts: Visual project timelines with logical dependency control.
Mobile App Overhaul: New UI with mobile-friendly features including receipt upload.
Integrations:
Accounting: Xero, QuickBooks, MYOB
OCR & Approvals: EasyBills (with PO matching)
Payments: Pinch Payments (GuruPay)
Task Management: Asana (two-way sync)
Document Storage: SuiteFiles, Dropbox, Google Drive
Payroll/HR: Tanda integration
E-commerce & CRM: New integrations with Shopify and HubSpot
Tony’s Take on Tech:
Clear distinction between automation (repeatable tasks) and AI (tool for speed & code support).
AI is useful but not foolproof—best as a developer accelerator.
Heather & Tony Discuss:
Why advisors should niche and partner with robust platforms like WorkGuru.
The importance of support and access—WorkGuru runs live drop-in support twice a week.
Upcoming at Xerocon 2025:
Branded swag, travel prize giveaway, live demos at the WorkGuru booth.
Mid-con party on Emporium Hotel Lina rooftop with Brisbane-based apps.
Register here : https://lu.ma/qxj8umqt
 
Contact details:
Tony Harcourt : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-harcourt/
W: https://workguru.io/
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
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

🔄Accounting Tech Round-Up: QTR2 Innovations & Insights

Heather Smith and Tyler Caskey explore major Q2 tech updates, from payroll developments to NetSuite integrations, AI trends, multi-entity reporting, and smarter expense and project tools.
Today I’m speaking with Tyler Caskey, Founder at The Bean Counter.
In this episode, we talk about . . . industry insights and key accounting technology updates from April to June 2025. We highlight the competition in HR and payroll, noting Rippling's market leadership, Employment Hero's implementation improvements, and Tanda’s attractive pricing . We discuss Xero's integration of Syft into its dashboard. Tyler praises the project management solution Work Guru for its native integrations across different systems. We also cover the integration of the ERP solution Oracle NetSuite with Airwallex, Weel and ApprovalMax, and highlight changes in Xero, QuickBooksOnline, and MYOB, including the release of Solo Money by MYOB. We wrapped up with a quick look at recent investments and a preview of upcoming Accounting Technology events.
Key Themes & Takeaways
Payroll & HR Tech
Competition heating up: Rippling, Employment Hero, Elmo, and Tanda making moves.
Pricing pressures and feature sets vary widely—Tanda noted as great value.
Multi-Entity Reporting
Strong contenders: Fathom, Join, DataSights, Calxa, Spotlight Reporting.
Notable updates: Xero integrates Sift, Join introduces Board Packs, Calxa adds advanced tracking category grouping.
Expense Management & Virtual Cards
ApprovalMax, Weel and Airwallex now integrated with NetSuite.
Derive emerges as a serious AP/procurement tool competitor to ProSpend, especially for franchises.
Jobs & Projects
WorkGuru praised for native integrations, suitability for construction and manufacturing.
Gojee, Scoro, and Project Works also discussed. Project Works raised $12M Series A.
AI & ChatGPT Use in Accounting
Clients are using AI for education and pre-queries—accountants need to stay ahead.
Risks around DIY tax advice. AI as a review tool (e.g., Expert, future potential).
CRM Tools
Wave CRM: Excellent for member-based orgs.
Friendly Manager and Hello Club noted in the sports/event space.
Core App Updates
Xero: Practice Manager UI refresh, Tap to Pay on iPhone, invoicing redesign, Carbon integration, U.S. Melio acquisition.
QuickBooks: New 3-year forecasting, workflow approvals, ATO integration enhancements.
MYOB: Launches Solo Money – targeted at freelancers/sole traders.
ERP & Reporting Tools
Hemesphere + Odoo for large-volume users.
NetSuite growing as a high-quality GL platform, even for low-entity clients.
Campfire (AI-first ERP) secures $35M Series A funding.
 Events Mentioned
Heather & Tyler speaking across AU at Dashboard Insights, CloudOffice, CA ANZ & Women in Accounting events.
Upcoming: Xerocon (Tyler speaking), Suite World Vegas, Zoholics, Mayday’s Multi-Entity Webinar Series.
Upcoming events that Tyler or Heather are speaking at:
 
31 Jul - Fireside, Forecasts & Future Tech - Cloudoffis, Melbourne
1 Aug - FY25 Accounting Benchmarking Roadshow - Dashboard Insights, Brisbane
14-26 Aug Scaling with Xero
19 Aug Your Brain is Full: Build a Second Brain to Make Room for What Matters - SWAN Sydney Women in Accounting Network
25-26 Aug 2025 Zoholics - Sydney
1 Sep The Intersection of Accounting and Technology - CAANZ, Brisbane
3-4 Sep Xerocon - Brisbane
6-9 Oct SuiteWorld - Las Vegas
22-23 Oct Accounting & Business Show Asia - Singapore
Contact details:
Tyler Caskey : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercaskey/
The Bean Counters https://www.thebeancounters.com.au/
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
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Your clients are using ChatGPT: How are you going to react when your clients use ChatGPT?

Your clients are using ChatGPT.
Your clients are going to try to do their accounts and their tax using ChatGPT.
Your clients are going to ask you questions generated from ChatGPT.
Your clients are going to ask you why you have not deducted THIS because ChatGPT suggested it.
Your clients are going to come to you with “the work finished by ChatGPT” and they are going to ask you to give it a quick look over and remind you that you should not charge them as much because ChatGPT has done the bulk of the work.
AND how are you going to react to this???
Firstly, be AWARE that it’s happening.
It’s good that your clients are taking an interest, and doing some of their own research.
REMIND clients that ChatGPT can make mistakes, and that important information needs to be checked. “That’s a helpful starting point, but it’s not always right, especially for tax.”
ChatGPT can help clients understand terminology, accounting concepts, simplify language, and help prep them for a meeting.
ChatGPT is not a professional accountant or bookkeeper. It may not know the latest tax legislation, may draw on international information, or suggest non-compliant responses.
ChatGPT rarely understands the nuances of a client situation, and has a tendency to oversimplify things, and be overconfident in its statements, as if they are facts.
I recall when I was pregnant, turning up to the Doctor's office with a large hardcover copy of Dr Miriam Stoppard’s Pregnancy Book, filled with post-it notes of my hand written questions. If the Doctor had been reluctant to answer my questions, then I probably would have found a new Doctor.
When your client comes to you with ChatGPT responses, how are you going to respond?
You could be prepared to suggest that ChatGPT can be a helpful tool, but it's not a substitute for the knowledge and judgment of a qualified bookkeeper or accountant.
Highlight where ChatGPT can be used, and where it’s not so good. Remind them that it needs to be triple fact checked! You could highlight that in some areas it could save them money, but in other areas such as reviewing ChatGPT responses may lead to inefficiencies and actually cost them more money.
Contact details:
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
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

🚀 From EdTech to FinTech: Miquel Palet’s Journey with Get Invoice

Today I’m speaking with Miquel Palet, Founder of GetInvoice Miquel Palet is a Barcelona-based entrepreneur and product leader, known for founding Ucademy, an edtech platform, and GetInvoice, a tool for automating invoice retrieval from emails and other sources. With a background in engineering from Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Miquel combines technical expertise with a passion for simplifying business processes. His ventures reflect a commitment to innovation and user-centric solutions. GetInvoice is an AI-driven invoice automation software that automatically retrieves and processes invoices and receipts from emails and web portals, including Amazon and Google Ads. We extract all invoice data and integrate with accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero or Business Central, and other tools like Google Drive or Google Sheet, to automatically forward all processed invoices. GetInvoice is already used by more than +1,000 freelancers, startups, and small businesses around the world that are looking to automate their pre-accounting work and save +10 hours every week. In this episode, we talk about . . . · Guest: Miquel Palet, founder of Get Invoice and co-founder of Ucademy · Background: Engineering and entrepreneurship from Barcelona · Get Invoice: AI-driven software automating invoice retrieval from emails and portals like Amazon & Google Integrations: Works with Xero, QuickBooks, Business Central, Google Drive & Sheets · Origin Story: Born out of a pain point at Ucademy while scaling fast · Market Focus: Small businesses (10–200 people) in Europe and the US · Milestone: Bootstrapped growth reaching and surpassing $10K ARR within 6 months · Security: Uses secure Google/Outlook APIs with strict access limitations · Growth Strategy: Lean, product-focused, and quick iteration · Fun Fact: Inspired by Spotify Wrapped to create an email analytics campaign · Language: Currently English-only despite Spanish roots · Reading: Balances business books with classical literature like The Iliad   Contact details:   Get Invoice https://www.get-invoice.com  Miquel Palet https://linkedin.com/in/miquelpalet  Miquel Pale https://x.com/paletmiki  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   

🔍 From SMSF to AI Tax Workpapers: Automating Compliance & Workflows

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. Read how I work  with some apps here http://endorsementdisclosure.com/ 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 

🔄 Reinventing Float: AI, Consolidation and the New F Word | Colin Hewitt

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

How to End the Wild West of Cloud Integrators ⚙️ | Ryan Pearcy

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   

Digital Transformation & AI in Accounting – 🤖The Future is Now

A dynamic panel explores how accountants can lead digital transformation, harness AI, train teams, and shift from compliance to advisory to stay relevant in a fast-changing tech landscape. The role of trusted advisors in leading digital transformation. Challenges in adopting new tech, especially in larger firms with undertrained internal finance teams.  The critical importance of training staff and upskilling, starting from the advisory end and working backwards.  Using tools like Dext and other cloud accounting apps to streamline processes and enhance client engagement.  The value of certifications, networking, and community learning.  Emphasis on simplifying processes before layering tech solutions.  This panel was held at the Accounting and Business Expo in Sydney, and was sponsored by Dext. Dext is a cloud-based accounting software platform that helps accountants, bookkeepers, and businesses streamline financial data collection and processing. Formerly known as Receipt Bank, Dext offers tools for automated data extraction, invoice and receipt management, and real-time financial insights. It integrates with leading accounting systems like Xero, QuickBooks Online, and Sage, making it easier to reduce manual data entry, improve accuracy, and speed up workflows. With a strong focus on automation and AI, Dext empowers advisors to shift from compliance work to more strategic, advisory-focused services.   Contacts and resources: Lielette Calleja (BusinessDEPOT) https://www.linkedin.com/in/lielettecalleja/  Aleesha Bailey (RSM Australia) https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleesha-bailey/  Sabby Gill (CEO of Dext) https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabbygill/  Heather Smith : https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/  KPMG : Keeping Us Up At Night https://assets.kpmg.com/content/dam/kpmg/au/pdf/2025/keeping-us-up-at-night-2025.pdf  Accounting Apps newsletter: http://HeatherSmithAU.COM Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting  X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU 

🚀 Accounting Tech Updates 1st QTR 25: From AI to Automation

My co-host Tyler Caskey Partner at The BeanCounters and I presented a taster of our quarterly Accounting Tech update podcast at the popular Accounting & Business Expo in Sydney.  In this episode, we talk about . . . Big Software Moves: Xero retires classic invoicing and introduces drag/drop bill uploads; QuickBooks enhances Projects and Work area; MYOB adds new reminders; Easy Business adds ABA payroll. ERP & Practice App Upgrades: NetSuite introduces AI-powered “Text Enhanced,” while XonBoard simplifies Xero onboarding—praised as “worth its weight in gold.” Insights & Oversight Tools: Fathom launches Portfolio for client-wide metrics; Dext refreshes its dashboard; Spotlight Reporting pushes ESG advisory via Sustain. Standout Tools & Features: Modano’s online budgeting praised, Translucent adds 6 tracking categories & Deferred Revenue App, Karbon expands KPI reporting and integrates Chrome extension. Ecosystem Growth: Sharesight adds Drawdown Risk and improved cost reporting; Fergus integrates with Xero for builders; Workshop Software boosts mobile bookings; EZRentout enhances order pipelines. Contact details: Tyler Caskey : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercaskey/  The Bean Counters : https://www.thebeancounters.com.au/   Heather Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/  Accounting Apps newsletter: http://HeatherSmithAU.COM Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 

📢How to stay focused and productive | Andrew Sims

Today I’m speaking with Andrew Sims, CEO of SuiteFiles Key Learnings from this episode include: Understanding Fatigue: Decision, friction, and task fatigue impact productivity. Recognising them is the first step to overcoming them. Practical Boundaries: Setting clear work boundaries and minimising interruptions can dramatically improve focus. Calendar & Meeting Management: Colour-coded calendars, automated scheduling tools, and meeting transcribers save time and reduce cognitive overload. Digital Decluttering: Organised digital workspaces reduce friction fatigue and make information retrieval seamless. Deep Work Techniques: Methods like the Pomodoro technique, energy peak planning, and music-driven focus improve concentration. The Right Tech Tools: Document management, email organisation, and workflow automation enhance efficiency and reduce time wasted on repetitive tasks. Resources To find out more about SuiteFiles: https://www.suitefiles.com/ Andrew Sims https://www.linkedin.com/in/adsims/    Contact details: 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  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@heathersmithau  BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/heathersmithau.bsky.social