Gravita unlocks AI for accountants with Silverfin
Gravita, a leading London-based accounting firm, has integrated Silverfin Assistant—an AI tool embedded within the Silverfin platform—into their workflows to enhance data accuracy, identify critical errors quickly, ensure data security, and support staff development by providing automated checks and clear explanations, thereby advancing their mission to combine technology with expert skills for improved client outcomes.
Gravita, a top 30 full-service accounting firm based in London, England, is committed to creating a ‘new era of accountants’ by combining advanced technology with expert skills to help clients achieve their business goals. When Silverfin Assistant was launched in the UK in 2023, Gravita quickly adopted the tool and has since integrated it into their workflows.
“We were keen to be early adopters of Silverfin Assistant; now we’re also strong advocates.”
Russell Frayne, Director of Transformation at Gravita
Venturing into AI Waters Responsibly
Gravita encourages experimentation with new technologies like AI, but with strict rules regarding data security. As Russell Frayne explains, working with sensitive client data requires knowing where and how data is used and stored by AI systems. The safest way to embrace AI is by adopting in-platform tools built into core accounting software. Silverfin Assistant, being part of the Silverfin platform, had already passed due diligence and procurement processes, ensuring data safety.
Value from the First Run
When Gravita first used Silverfin Assistant during accounts preparation, the AI tool immediately demonstrated its value. Instead of manual review, the tool performed around 100 checks, identifying several useful opportunities and four critical errors that would have taken an accountant 30 minutes or more to find manually.
An Extra Pair of (Eagle) Eyes
Finding inconsistencies in nominal accounts, VAT rates, posting dates, and similar areas can be time-consuming and prone to human error. Silverfin Assistant acts as a second set of eyes, flagging anomalies and prompting users to review potential issues, which improves data quality. This is especially helpful when working with offshore partners or junior accountants, as the tool provides clear explanations for its checks, helping bridge knowledge gaps and accelerating staff development.
Three Reasons Why Gravita is a Big Fan of Silverfin Assistant
Russell highlights three main benefits:
- Consistency of a standardised approach
- Consistency of high-quality output
- Lower risk of incorrect data and human error
“It’s a big win to have an AI companion built into Silverfin, our compliance tool, that ticks all these boxes.”
Russell Frayne, Director of Transformation at Gravita
More Time for Client Interactions
Russell believes that AI can transform the accountant’s role from periodic compliance work to that of a trusted business advisor, enabled by more accurate and timely data. Many accountants want to spend more time advising clients but are limited by time and data quality. Silverfin Assistant helps by automating manual processes and checks, freeing up time for higher-value client interactions.
“Silverfin Assistant sits right where we as accountants work day to day – not in a separate tool. I’m convinced it holds even more potential to tap into and will continue to develop at pace.”
Russell Frayne, Director of Transformation at Gravita
Real-World Insights Shaping Silverfin Assistant
Gravita is making Silverfin Assistant a key part of its working papers and account production processes. Russell and his team are collaborating with Silverfin’s product and development teams to maximise the tool’s value, providing feedback on user experience and information relevance. They are also exploring advanced capabilities like large language models.
About Silverfin Assistant
Silverfin is cloud software for ambitious accounting firms, offering live client files, connected workpapers, and trustworthy AI. Silverfin Assistant, launched in the UK, uses AI to continuously analyse client files, identify unusual balances, missing transactions, and outliers, and suggest fixes. This saves hours of manual checking, improves accuracy, and enhances client service.