By the time you finish your degree final year, the concept of a digital workplace will have gained an even firmer foothold within UK industry and commerce.

The way in which organisations carry out even the most basic business processes is moving from away from being physical, to operating on “virtual” platforms. This includes software that streamlines everything from stock control to fulfilment logistics.

Thanks to rapidly advancing technology and new data skills, automation is not something confined to production lines and warehouses. It’s a trend that cuts across all business functions, including financial control and forecasting.

How does this impact on your ability to find jobs as becoming an accountant or a member of a finance team?

Greater flexibility

One of the most advantageous aspects of the digital workplace is the greater flexibility it provides. You can carry out your responsibilities, report, share and collaborate from a multitude of devices, and from remote locations.

This is facilitating more work from home potential and the possibility of staggered start and finish times, for example.

Connectivity and integration

The digital workplace offers an exciting prospect for graduates with accountancy and finance degrees because you will no longer be confined to the “accounts office”.

Increasing amounts of financial management are being automated. Which means that armed with integrated business process software – and using new tools to gather, sort and analyse financial data – accountants can play of more pivotal role. Your insights and involvement may be required for the day-to-day running of your company. Your ever-increasing predictive analysis abilities will certainly be valued in helping to formulate growth strategies.

Data literacy and business acumen

To be sure of securing an attractive position as a corporate accountant or finance team member when you leave college in London, data literacy is invaluable. The digital workplace is based on the constant gathering and sharing of information, covering all aspects of the business.

Lean and agile organisations rely on all departments working together in perfect synergy, exchanging and using data efficiently, and collaborating effectively. This means that having a broader idea of how businesses function, is vital.

Being comfortable and “at home” in the world of technology and digital content matters, as fast becoming as important as financial skills. You could also argue that the digital workplace requires you to be a “data visionary”. To be able to see its full potential, when applied to moving a company forwards.

If you would like to study for an accountancy and finance degree that prepares you for the digital workplace, contact Mont Rose College in Ilford.