CFOs are urged to embrace artificial intelligence to enhance enterprise intelligence, according to Kelly Lynn Kassa of BARC. In an evolving landscape where agentic AI and predictive planning are transforming performance management, finance leaders are uniquely positioned to leverage data for strategic advantage. As highlighted in BARC’s report, “Predictive Planning and Forecasting on the Rise – Hype or Reality?”, the integration of predictive algorithms aims to refine corporate planning and forecasting while automating processes to alleviate burdens on planners.
Agentic AI is set to revolutionize how organizations approach corporate performance management. It offers the promise of delivering data and insights more rapidly, enabling enhanced analysis to bolster decision-making. Kassa emphasizes that CFOs have a pivotal role in capitalizing on these advancements, as they sit at the intersection of finance, data, and intelligence. Their ability to drive value-increasing strategies is crucial in establishing a robust data foundation that supports efficient AI deployment.
A key aspect of implementing AI in finance is the quality of underlying data. Reliable data must be consistent, clean, and contextualized—a challenge that remains pressing for many organizations. Survey data from BARC reveals that 34% of respondents cited “unsuitable data architecture” as a barrier to deriving value from AI, while 33% struggle with integration and quality issues. These factors are vital for building a strong foundation for corporate performance management systems.
The traditional role of the CFO is undergoing significant transformation. Historically encumbered by manual processes and extensive spreadsheet tasks, CFOs are now increasingly adopting specialized planning tools. According to The Planning Survey 25, 68% of companies are relying on these advanced tools for key planning activities. This shift is leading to an evolution in the CFO’s responsibilities, where proactive, insight-driven leadership is becoming essential. The modern CFO is not merely a guardian of financial accuracy but an architect of enterprise insight who advocates for intelligent automation.
As predictive planning becomes mainstream, with 27% of organizations already utilizing it productively and 65% anticipating significant benefits, the relevance of AI forecasting is clear. Companies that embrace these technologies can enhance their operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities. However, Kassa warns that without a strong commitment to data quality and governance, organizations may struggle to realize these benefits.
The CFO’s office stands as the singular function that integrates data governance, financial oversight, and strategic insight. Finance teams possess the expertise necessary to operationalize AI effectively. This integration involves collaborating with other departments, such as operations and human resources, to establish governance frameworks that ensure data lineage and model transparency. Fostering a data-centric culture across the organization is another critical responsibility for today’s CFO.
As the landscape of finance continues to evolve, the role of the CFO is shifting from a traditional focus on numbers to a broader strategic oversight of organizational effectiveness. Tomorrow’s CFOs must construct and uphold the infrastructures necessary to capitalize on AI-driven opportunities. Ensuring that every decision is anchored in trusted data is vital, as the success of AI applications hinges entirely on the quality of that data.
This forward-looking approach positions CFOs as not just financial stewards but as essential architects of a data-driven future, equipped to navigate the complexities introduced by agentic AI in corporate performance management.
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