The Intuit Connect 2024 conference provided a comprehensive look into the latest in accounting, bookkeeping, and technology. This year’s event had it all: an abundance of networking, practical advice, and some fresh approaches from industry leaders. Here’s an in-depth look at some key takeaways and memorable moments.
Starting with General Reflections
The conference opened with a focus on making the most of the experience. We went in with the following intentions: make meaningful connections, be fully present, and have a game plan going into the event. This approach of actively engaging, asking questions, and strategically planning the day made a big difference in maximizing the value of the event.
The conference also highlighted that networking is about more than just swapping contact information and connecting authentically. It is looking beyond industry relevance and finding ways to connect personally, sharing interests and passions with others.
Standout Sessions and Speakers
Some speakers and panels really stood out this year. Here are the sessions that left a lasting impact:
- Randy Crabtree’s “Beyond the numbers: building a people-first culture for sustainable growth”: Randy Crabtree delivered one of the standout talks of the conference focusing on company culture. It was insightful to hear about the culture needs to ensure growth. It was emphasized that “Weak cultures rely on rules while strong cultures rely on relationships.” It was explained that creating a safe environment (or culture) is imperative where people can speak up. A strong, supportive culture doesn’t just boost morale—it becomes the foundation for sustainable, accelerated growth.
- Panel Discussion (Amy Walker, Ben Curtis, Roman Villard) – “Hire them, develop them, and retain them”: This panel dove into the pressing issue of finding and keeping the best people in today’s competitive job market. Roman discussed the continued globalized workforce and called out the distaste for terms “offshoring” or “outsourced.” Roman refers to his globalized team members as his team, promoting inclusion throughout the organization and with clients. Ben discussed that when turnover occurs, an environment where employees look back and continue to speak highly of their time working at the company creates a long-lasting positive effect. Amy discussed creating systems such as formalized performance appraisals and employee onboarding to ensure employees feel supported and seen. The panel highlighted that building a loyal, engaged workforce requires attracting top talent and fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where employees feel valued and connected long after they leave.
- Korey Cournoyer and Dan Luthi’s “Automation strategies: 4 ways to elevate your firm”: Based on their insightful and practical approaches, Korey Cournoyer and Dan Luthi focused on the importance of properly documenting processes to highlight opportunities for improvements and automation. The session was all about streamlining workflows to improve efficiency and challenging attendees to think critically about their current systems. The questions made people consider whether their documentation processes were clear, consistent, and easy for new team members to follow. The session sparked much discussion around best practices in creating documentation that doesn’t just get stored but is actively used.
- Exploring Software Solutions at the Exhibit Hall: Another highlight was the chance to interact with various software vendors in the exhibit hall. This area offered a hands-on way to see new tools in action, from automated bookkeeping solutions to advanced analytics platforms. Seeing these tools up close and personal was an incredible value, giving them a clearer idea of which solutions might be a good fit for their businesses and clients.
Industry Trends and What’s Ahead
Intuit Connect 2024 focused on several major trends, especially artificial Intelligence (AI), mid-market focus, and globalization.
- AI: AI was the hot topic across multiple sessions, with speakers discussing everything from its potential to streamline workflows to the ethical implications of automation. There was a recurring theme around using AI as a supportive tool rather than a substitute for human expertise. People also discussed best practices for adopting AI tools responsibly, ensuring they enhance rather than overwhelm. By integrating AI thoughtfully, companies can offer more personalized services, even predicting client needs before they’re voiced. This approach allows accounting professionals to use AI to strengthen, not replace, their customer interactions.
- Intuit’s Mid-Market Strategy and Focus on Construction: This year, Intuit unveiled a new focus on mid-market clients, particularly with the introduction of Intuit Enterprise Suite. This expansion seemed to resonate with attendees, particularly those from mid-sized firms who may have felt underserved by existing tools tailored to either large corporations or small businesses. Intuit explained it as bridging the gap between small businesses served by QuickBooks Online (QBO) and much larger Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Intuit’s spotlight on the construction industry was another interesting pivot, with the company showcasing tools designed specifically for the unique challenges in that sector. This strategic shift underscores Intuit’s commitment to meeting diverse business needs and adapting its solutions to serve a broader range of customers.
- Globalization and Its Effects: Globalization was another prominent theme, with conversations focusing on the interconnectedness of today’s market and the need to stay adaptable. As companies increasingly operate across borders, speakers highlighted the importance of keeping up with international trends and regulations. Some sessions explored the role of tech in making global operations more manageable. Embracing globalization is essential for businesses aiming to thrive in a dynamic, interconnected world.
Reflections on What Comes Next
The conference served as both a wake-up call and a roadmap for the future. As the accounting field faces rapid change, the emphasis on adaptability and innovation is unmistakable. Key takeaways included being proactive about upskilling—especially in tech—and staying attuned to emerging trends.
Intuit Connect 2024 also reminded everyone that the human element remains irreplaceable despite the industry’s push toward automation and AI. People, relationships, and strategic thinking are at the heart of accounting.
Wrapping Up: Key Messages to Take Forward
Here’s a quick recap of some of the most valuable lessons from Intuit Connect 2024:
- Networking is essential. Be genuine, plan ahead, and stay engaged. Conferences like these are rare opportunities to make connections that might benefit you for years.
- Focus on relationships. Numbers are important, but building relationships makes a deeper, lasting impact.
- Stay updated on AI and automation. Embrace the tools to make your job easier, but keep sight of your unique human skills.
- Document processes effectively. Good documentation can be a game-changer for efficiency, team onboarding, and knowledge retention.
- Prepare for the future. Keep an eye on globalization and industry-specific shifts that could affect your work.
Intuit Connect 2024 offered a wealth of insights, leaving attendees well-prepared to navigate the challenges and embrace the opportunities in the fast-changing world of accounting.
