BDO launches new AI platform ‘Personas’ to streamline operations

BDO launches new AI platform 'Personas' to streamline operations

Personas is an internal AI platform meticulously developed by BDO to boost productivity and streamline day-to-day tasks.

BDO launches new AI platform ‘Personas’ to streamline operations

BDO, one of the UK’s leading accountancy and business advisory firm, has launched a revolutionary generative artificial intelligence (AI) platform, Personas.

This secure internal AI platform is designed to augment the productivity of its 7,500 employees, marking a significant stride in the firm’s ongoing investment in digital innovation.

Personas, built using Microsoft AI technology, leverages the latest GPT-4 models to streamline day-to-day tasks, freeing up employees to provide more complex, strategic advice. The platform supports a wide range of tasks, from drafting reports and new content to analysing documents and finding ways to improve efficiencies.

“Personas is a great example of the technology at BDO that has been developed by our people for our people,” says Dan Francis, Partner and Chief Innovation and Digital Officer at BDO.

One of the standout features of Personas is its ability to adapt to the style and specialism of each user. It uses custom personas to refine prompts and deliver outputs tailored to the individual and purpose. This ensures that BDO’s brand guidelines around language, tone of voice, and writing style are reflected in all outputs.

“We are working hard to ensure Personas is valuable to the work we do every day and, importantly, that our people have the tools and digital mindset needed to amplify their own learning and development and deliver best value to the businesses we work with,” adds Francis.

Securing data and ensuring compliance

Personas is the brainchild of BDO Labs, the firm’s innovation platform that harnesses the collective intelligence and creativity of employees from all areas of the business. As part of BDO’s commitment to digital transformation, BDO Labs conducted over 100 technology experiments in the past year, resulting in the development of numerous digital products and platforms.

Personas emerged as a shining example of BDO’s human-led, technology-powered strategy, demonstrating the firm’s dedication to providing employees with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.

The platform operates in a secure BDO environment, ensuring the confidentiality and compliance of data. The platform is being rolled out to the firm’s 7,500 people, with extensive support and training available to all staff.

This move aligns with BDO’s human-led, technology-powered strategy and demonstrates its commitment to supporting employees in engaging with rapidly advancing technology such as AI.

Extensive support and training programs have been implemented to ensure a smooth transition and maximize the platform’s potential. BDO understands that investing in its people is crucial for embracing technological advancements like AI and maintaining a competitive edge in the market.

By equipping its employees with the necessary digital mindset and skill set, BDO is setting the stage for continuous growth and innovation.


Leading charge in innovation

Francis is the driving force behind Personas and BDO’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies. Since joining BDO in 2019, Francis has spearheaded the firm’s innovation initiatives, paving the way for transformative change.

His appointment as a partner in November 2023 reflects BDO’s recognition of his invaluable contributions and the integral role he plays in shaping the firm’s digital future.

 

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