Renowned Microsoft MVP, Danielle Stein Fairhurst, shares insights on financial modeling, emphasizing the distinction between models and reality. Topics include common modeling mistakes, dangers of AI reliance, importance of visuals, and managing model data effectively.

In the ever-evolving world of AI chat tools, finding the right solution can be a daunting task. Fear not, as we present a comprehensive 6-step framework to help you navigate the sea of options. From budget constraints to security protocols, internet access needs, file management capabilities, data analysis requirements, and bot-building aspirations, we've got you covered. We dive deep into the offerings of industry giants like OpenAI, Microsoft, Google, Anthropic, and Mistral, dissecting their free and paid AI chat tools. But the burning question remains: Is ChatGPT still the best? Join us as we explore the pros and cons of each tool, providing expert insights and pro tips to guide your decision-making process. Stay ahead of the curve and make an informed choice that aligns with your specific needs. - (00:01:32) - Step 1: Budget considerations for AI chat tools - (00:02:17) - Step 2: Security protocols and data protection - (00:03:36) - Step 3: Internet access capabilities of AI chat tools - (00:05:38) - Step 4: File management and multi-modal capabilities - (00:06:50) - Step 5: Data analysis and visualization capabilities - (00:07:52) - Step 6: Bot-building and customization options - (00:09:13) - Example use case: CFO reviewing contracts - (00:10:06) - Example use case: Controller analyzing spend - (00:10:27) - Example use case: Finance business partner meetings - (00:11:22) - Bonus free AI chat tool recommendations - (00:13:24) - Determining if ChatGPT is still the best option For more goodies, head over to www.techforfinance.com

Howard Katzenberg, Founder and CEO of Glean AI, shares insights on building financial visibility, empowering employees to make better spending decisions, and understanding unit economics. Topics include marketing to different buyer personas, negotiating with vendors, generative AI, automating accounts payable, benchmarking supplier pricing, onboarding customers, and leveraging AI technology for finance.

In this episode of "It's Not About the Numbers," hosts Chris and Mike, along with special co-host Adam Shilton, a trailblazer in AI finance, dive deep into the role of technology in enhancing finance team efficiency, regardless of their size or budget. The discussion spans the value of benchmarking tech use in finance, the impact of automation and advanced tools, and personal anecdotes from the hosts' lives, reflecting on changes and the pace of technological adoption. The episode uniquely blends professional insights with personal stories, emphasizing the importance of technology in finance without losing sight of the human elements. ------SHOW NOTES------ Subscribe to 'It's not all about the numbers' - https://open.spotify.com/show/4znaA5D1A3eXXxXd5PTaV1 ------CHAPTERS------ (00:01:48) - Sharing what's happening in AI news (00:03:09) - Adam detailing his background (00:07:26) - Recapping busy weeks and AI developments (00:08:41) - Comparing AI models Gemini and ChatGPT (00:12:28) - Explaining Microsoft's Copilot AI offering (00:17:15) - Adam explaining his fear of advanced AI (00:21:38) - Tracing Adam's early interest in technology (00:25:41) - Visualizing Adam's work as an AI producer (00:28:03) - Asking how Adam developed communication skills (00:31:46) - Recalling a pivotal public speaking experience (00:34:37) - Answering a question on benchmarking tech maturity (00:42:32) - Sharing good and bad data (00:49:55) - Providing links to connect with Adam P.S - Don’t forget to head over to www.techforfinance.com and sign up to Framework Friday for 1 actionable tech framework you can use to stay ahead of the game.

Exploring a 3-step framework for deploying Python in finance, focusing on libraries, applications, and workflows. Pro tips include using AI prompts for library suggestions and online platforms like Jupyter notebooks. Discussion on practical applications beyond algorithmic trading and the power of integrating Python with tools like Zapier.

Stephanie Mertz, Co-founder and CTO of Eisen, discusses leveraging AI tools, moving beyond Excel in finance, automation platforms, prompt engineering in AI, and the future of generative AI. She emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge and building resilient systems to level up technical skills.

In this replay of the GrowCFO show, host Kevin Appleby talks with returning guest Adam Shilton about how finance teams can use AI tools like ChatGPT. They discuss the different categories of AI tools - personal productivity enhancers, data/analytics, and enhancements to existing software. Adam outlines examples in each category, like using AI assistants for meeting notes and summaries. They also talk about the importance of simplifying and standardising processes before automation. Looking ahead, they predict increased autonomy of AI tools in 2024. Rather than just assisting, AI may be able to work towards defined outcomes with less ongoing prompting. Adam and Kevin agree that learning to frame effective prompts is an essential skill for getting the most out of AI. ------SHOW NOTES------- Check out the GrowCFO Show - https://www.growcfo.net/growcfo-show/ ------CHAPTERS------ Here are the chapters for the podcast transcript: (00:00:00) - Introduction (00:01:06) - Catching up since previous podcast (00:03:08) - Using AI tools like Otter and Fathom (00:05:09) - Explaining ChatGPT and how finance can use it (00:10:17) - Personal productivity uses for AI assistants (00:12:16) - Using AI for data analytics (00:13:22) - AI enhancements to existing software (00:14:21) - Reviewing key AI categories and applications (00:16:17) - Using AI to automate podcast production (00:18:22) - Importance of process optimization before automation (00:19:29) - Scheduling focus time with AI calendar tools (00:22:10) - AI meeting notes enable active listening (00:24:32) - Predicting increased AI autonomy in 2024 (00:26:00) - Challenges of prompting AI tools effectively (00:27:52) - AI may be able to work towards defined outcomes (00:29:45) - Limitations of existing autonomous AI tools (00:31:08) - Using specific AI bots for different tasks (00:32:28) - AI still needs clear instructions and outcomes (00:35:49) - Microsoft Copilot and other upcoming AI tools (00:38:00) - Potential costs and benefits of Microsoft Copilot (00:41:25) - Importance of process improvement before AI automation (00:43:03) - Real-world examples of process optimization (00:45:43) - AI image generation tools (00:47:22) - Framing effective questions and prompts (00:48:13) - Conclusion Check out the newsletter - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com/

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Listen in as we navigate the intricate dance between AI and human intuition in the realm of financial forecasting and analysis. Together with my insightful guest Martin, we dissect the irreplaceable value of human touch in financial planning. We highlight how a strategic blend of AI tools and expert knowledge can amplify our financial foresight, transforming analysts into superheroes of data. Martin shares pearls of wisdom on the importance of simple, direct questions in crafting more effective financial plans, underscoring the necessity of human connection in an increasingly automated world. This conversation also delves into the evolution of financial planning and analysis platforms, as Martin sheds light on the nuanced limitations and burgeoning capabilities of AI in this field. From discussing the potential of Python's Prophet library to contemplating the future of interaction design and anomaly detection in FP&A tools, we explore the balance between technological allure and the essential need for human judgment. Moreover, we get playful with AI's storytelling prowess, revealing how it can generate custom bedtime tales for kids, and we probe the nascent co-pilot feature in Office apps, setting realistic expectations for AI assistance in data and modeling tasks. Wrapping up our chat, Martin takes us on a detour through the realms of personal health, fitness, and the arts. We share transformative experiences with fitness apps and the quantified self-movement, reflecting on the impact of tracking and consistency in our wellbeing journeys. And for those enchanted by the intersection of creativity and technology, Martin extends an invitation to engage with his art and connect through various platforms, ensuring his insights and inspirations are but a click away. So join us for a rich blend of finance, technology, and personal growth that promises to enlighten and entertain. ------SHOW NOTES------ - Connect with Martin on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinzych/ - Check out Jirav - https://www.jirav.com/ ------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) The Role of AI in Forecasting (10:47) AI in Financial Planning and Analysis (17:18) Exploring Financial Modeling and AI Storytelling (24:13) Tech Apps and Fitness Transformations (29:17) Finding Martin's Art and Contact Information https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Former Microsoft finance director Oli Deacon and AI finance expert Adam Shilton dive into the revolutionary impact of Microsoft Co-pilot in finance. They discuss its integration with Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, showcasing its ability to streamline tasks and enhance productivity. The podcast offers practical tips for acquiring and maximizing Co-pilot's benefits, promising to guide finance professionals through engaging with this AI-driven assistant effectively.

Join us as we explore the ever-evolving intersection of technology and business models with our insightful guest, Dan Lawrence from Bots for that. This week, we're peering into the future with the Apple Vision Pro, an innovative AR headset that could revolutionize the way we work in finance. Microsoft's leap to ensure Office compatibility with this tech is just the tip of the iceberg. But it's not all business; we also reflect on the challenge and necessity of a tech detox, sharing personal anecdotes about the struggle to unplug in a world where digital is king. Listen in as we discuss the intriguing possibilities of AI-enabled search tools like Perplexity and Arc Search, which are set to transform how we browse the web. Imagine navigating spreadsheets with a mere glance or finding the most relevant information without wading through pages of search results. These advancements could spell a significant shift for advertising revenue models and the visibility of content online. As AI becomes increasingly integral to our lives, we question what this means for job roles and the balance between automation and human touch. Hear about the potential of AI to not just replace but augment human tasks in sales and beyond. We dive into how these technologies are becoming more personalized, capable of small talk, and learning from each interaction. We'll discuss how this impacts small and medium-sized businesses and the strategic advantages it can offer. Wrapping up, we tackle the concept of fractional learning and the benefits of embracing challenges, both professionally and personally. So, gear up for an episode packed with forward-thinking insights and lively banter with myself, Adam Shilton, and Dan Lawrence. -------SHOW NOTES------ Subscribe to the 'Tech for Finance' podcast - https://pod.link/1628188164 Subscribe to the 'Beanies in a Pod' Podcast - https://beaniesinapod.buzzsprout.com/ -------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) Apple Vision Pro (12:54) AI-Enabled Search and Job Replacement (26:07) AI in Sales and Business Augmentation (32:59) Future of AI and Job Roles (46:27) Fractional Learning (51:03) The Importance of Challenging Yourself Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com