AI research tools can assist accountants with information gathering, but outputs should always be verified against authoritative professional sources.

For accounting firms, relying on unverified AI outputs can create risks for professional standards, governance and client trust.

In this episode of Small Firm, Big Impact Express, Carolyn White, Manager of Library Services at Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ), explores how firms can use AI tools more safely when conducting research.

In just a few minutes, she explains why AI errors can occur, what firms should check before relying on AI-generated information, and how CA ANZ Library Services can support research verification.

“AI tools can accelerate research, but it should be treated as a starting point, not the final answer. Verification and professional judgement remain essential.”

Carolyn White leads Library Services at Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ), supporting members with access to authoritative research and professional resources.

Drawing on her experience helping practitioners navigate complex information sources, Carolyn explains how accounting firms can approach AI-generated research with the right level of caution.

Listeners will learn how AI tools generate research outputs, why errors such as fabricated references can occur, and the practical steps firms should take to verify information before relying on AI-generated results.

The episode also highlights how CA ANZ Library Services can support members by helping locate trusted sources, verify references and strengthen research processes within their practices.

Resources and further reading:

• Using AI for research
• Explore CPD opportunities
• Read more about using AI in Acuity
• Visit the Smaller Practices Centre for general practical tools and guidance

View the transcript within the platform.