Corporate finance departments are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence through existing ERP systems and reporting platforms. According to Christie Kozlik, chief accounting officer at Accel Entertainment, the primary challenge for finance teams is establishing governance and trust in AI outputs rather than managing implementation budgets.
Accel Entertainment manages 29 000 slot machines across 4 700 locations in 10 states, processing data from numerous source systems. Kozlik emphasizes that because AI models often present incorrect information with high confidence, companies must implement rigorous validation processes, including defined inputs, expected outputs, and early involvement of auditors.
To measure return on investment, Accel Entertainment uses specific metrics, such as reducing the financial close process from seven days to five. The company is currently prioritizing AI application in SEC reporting and ERP system development, where data provenance is strictly monitored and risk-rated for potential automation.
The approach involves evaluating individual financial footnotes to determine their suitability for AI processing. By categorizing data and establishing a structured game plan for each section, finance teams aim to maintain accuracy in regulatory filings while leveraging new technology tools.
