2025 Document Automation Trends: Finance Executives Face a Choice Between Automation Potential and Operational Concerns

London, UK —

Despite significant progress in document automation, a new report from Rossum reveals that 58% of finance leaders still consider Excel their most commonly used tool for finance task automation, highlighting the challenges companies face in adopting advanced automation solutions.

Rossum's latest industry report, "2025 Document Automation Trends," delves into the evolving priorities and obstacles finance leaders face as they transition to a digital future, offering their insights on document automation.

Based on survey data from over 470 finance executives in the US, UK, and Germany, the report identifies cost as the biggest barrier to implementing automation in finance operations, with 32% of leaders citing it as their top challenge. Other obstacles include tool complexity, poor integration, and lengthy onboarding times, revealing the significant difficulties finance teams face in their efforts to modernize processes.

Rossum's 2025 Document Automation Trends report provides finance leaders with actionable insights and key performance indicators to navigate the opportunities and challenges of automation. Offering strategies for AI integration, enhanced cybersecurity, and scalable automation, the report is an essential tool for leaders seeking to future-proof their finance departments.

Key Findings from 2025 Document Automation Trends

Excel's Dominance in Finance Automation Persists

Despite the availability of advanced automation platforms, Excel remains the dominant automation tool for 58% of finance leaders. This reliance indicates a gap between awareness and action, with finance departments still having untapped potential for efficiency and digital transformation.

Cybercriminals Adapt Faster Than Businesses

As technology advances, finance leaders are increasingly aware of the risks associated with cybercrime. The report shows that 27% of respondents believe AI and automation in finance pose more risks than benefits. This finding underscores the urgent need for accounts payable departments to adopt AI-driven defenses and proactive cybersecurity measures to guard against evolving fraud tactics.

Finance Leaders' Self-Identification as "Luddites" Hinders Innovation

The survey reveals a concerning situation: 46% of finance leaders describe themselves or their departments as "Luddites," reflecting resistance to automation and innovation. As finance roles rapidly expand beyond traditional bookkeeping, this mindset poses a significant barrier to progress. To unlock the full potential of automation, finance leaders must shift toward a proactive, innovation-driven approach, positioning themselves as strategic partners in driving business success.

Featured Experts Provide Strategic Insights

The report includes insights from several prominent industry figures, includingKieran Gilmurray(CEO of Kieran Gilmurray and Company Limited), who emphasizes AI's potential as a collaborative force rather than a replacement for human roles; andAndreas Welsch(Chief AI Strategist at Intelligence Briefing), who advocates for AI as an embedded strategic partner in finance operations. Additionally,Dan Lucarini(from Deep Analysis) warns that without AI automation initiatives, finance teams risk falling behind.

For full report details and to download a copy, visit theRossum website。

About the data: Survey data is based on online interviews with YouGov panel members who agreed to participate in advance. Between September 24 and October 2, 2024, 473 people were interviewed: 167 in the UK, 156 in the US, and 150 in Germany. Respondents were company decision-makers responsible for accounting matters (at least senior management level). The survey is not representative.