Three Companies Collaborate for the Future of Bookkeeping and Social Welfare

A New Era in Bookkeeping and Social Welfare

In a groundbreaking initiative, Business Lariat Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, has partnered with S&C Co., Ltd. from Fukuoka and SoLabo Co., Ltd. based in Tokyo. Together, they are launching a collaborative project aimed at improving bookkeeping productivity by utilizing AI and creating sustainable value in social welfare.

Project Overview: Complete In-house Bookkeeping Model

The project focuses on streamlining the entire bookkeeping process from document scanning to AI-driven data creation and integration into cloud accounting systems. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will only need to send their paper documents in an envelope, after which the AI handles the bookkeeping seamlessly. Behind this system lies a fully in-house model where a designated employment support facility performs the scanning tasks, AI generates the data, and it’s connected to cloud accounting.

Background and Challenges: Overcoming the “Paper” Barrier in Digital Transformation

While AI and cloud accounting technologies are advancing, the biggest hurdle in the field has been the management of paper documents. Many SMEs are not well-versed in IT or cloud technologies, making it difficult for them to submit files in PDF or image formats, leading to a predominance of traditional paper submissions. To enable AI-driven bookkeeping, it was vital to overcome this barrier.

Roles in Collaboration: Each Company’s Value Proposition

- Business Lariat Group: Responsible for the scanning of paper documents and committed to social contributions through employment support. (Operated by BRbpo Service Co., Ltd.)
- SoLabo: Utilizes its connections with SMEs to design and implement the entire AI-assisted bookkeeping flow.
- S&C: Contributes its expertise in cloud accounting implementation to assist with systems integration and operational support.

By leveraging each company's strengths, a feasible system has been developed that is not just theoretical but practical.

Features and Strengths: A Hybrid Support Model

The project's distinguishing feature is its hybrid support model, which optimally combines technology like AI and cloud services with meticulous manual labor from humans. By handling areas that cannot be fully automated, the BR Group achieves a balance of quality and flexibility in bookkeeping support.

Synergy with Disability Employment: Why Scanning Becomes a Strength

The tasks of scanning and classifying documents align exceptionally well with the characteristics of individuals with disabilities, who often excel in repetitive tasks and possess high concentration levels. The BR Group has extensive experience in employment support for these individuals, demonstrating high accuracy and continuity in this project.

Transforming SMEs: AI Accounting Made Easy

For SMEs that perceive accounting as daunting, the ease and clarity of this project provide immense value. The new system allows businesses previously left behind in digital transformation due to a lack of IT literacy to benefit from AI as well.

Sustainable Growth: A Model for Co-Prosperity in Accounting and Welfare

This collaborative scheme transcends mere efficiency gains, contributing to resolving social issues related to employment support for individuals with disabilities. As business volume increases, more job opportunities are created, fostering a sustainable support system where AI and human efforts thrive together.

Future Outlook: Aiming for 1,000 Implementations by 2025

Business Lariat Co., Ltd. aims to introduce this scheme to over 1,000 companies nationwide by the fiscal year 2025, realizing a world where anyone can easily access high-quality bookkeeping support. Future plans include expanding beyond bookkeeping to include broader BPO services.

Company Leaders’ Perspectives on Collaboration

- Toshiyuki Nakanishi, CEO of Business Lariat Co., Ltd.: "A work environment that utilizes one’s strengths is the true essence of employment support. I hope this project brings new value and pride to many individuals."
- Koichi Tahara, CEO of SoLabo Co., Ltd.: "Realistic accounting support is made possible by AI doing the calculations and humans providing the support. We are challenging new forms of collaboration amidst the intersection of technological advancement and social issues."
- Yoshinori Sagara, CEO of S&C Co., Ltd.: "Having consistently supported SMEs, we’re proud to create assistance that suits their actual needs—redefining accounting support standards across the nation."