Community Exchange

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Tanner,

Currently, we are using AI in finance in so many different ways. We use Microsoft Copilot for security reasons. Just last week, I had Copilot assist me with a quarterly financial review. Because we use Copilot inside of Microsoft (secure), we can drop internal files into the system and it can completely analyze it. It prepared for me insights and visualizations in a quick few seconds. I am able to tell it things or visuals that I want it to adjust or remove. It is a very strong analytical tool. 

We also have internal checks and balances to ensure Copilot is reporting correctly. You must ALWAYS check the outputs it provides. It is only as good as your prompts, etc.

Thanks,

Towanna Sears

Auburn University

Campus Dining

tcb0008@auburn.edu

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

First, Tanner, thank you for this query to start the feedback.  This is quite enlightening to see how many are embracing the AI tools.

I am just 6 months into my budget role here and I have used AI thus far only to "redraft" textural content to accompany certain analysis, and used it to work with excel data files.  Yes, everything must be checked for reasonableness since AI is constantly being fed and learning.  I am planning to very soon use AI to analyze monthly results (compared to my own analysis) and to also see how I can use it to assist with projections as well.

Tyler, I would definitely appreciate your AI instructions for reading/filtering/accessing through stored files/documents.

Thank you,

Sherlyn Thomas

University of South Carolina

sherlyn.thomas@sc.edu

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

------------------------------
Tyler Winterbottom
College Budget Manager
Principia College

Original Message:
Sent: 10-20-2025 11:38 AM
From: Tanner Grubbs
Subject: AI and automation in higher ed

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

------------------------------
Tanner Grubbs
Functional Systems Analyst Sr.
University of Kansas
------------------------------

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

------------------------------
Tyler Winterbottom
College Budget Manager
Principia College

Original Message:
Sent: 10-20-2025 11:38 AM
From: Tanner Grubbs
Subject: AI and automation in higher ed

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

------------------------------
Tanner Grubbs
Functional Systems Analyst Sr.
University of Kansas
------------------------------

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hi Tyler,

I'd love to get the instructions you mentioned in your post, and any tips on useful AI tools you've been able to use.

Thanks!

Michelle
mmbernal@wmf1693.org

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hi Tyler, 

Thank you for this information.  I would also like for you to share the instructions with me. thanks so much!

Robin Hill (rhill@unf.edu)

Asst Director, Finance

University of North FL (SBDC)

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hi Tyler,

If you're not tired of sending these out yet, I would appreciate receiving the instructions you've created for referencing historical files, as well (nstewart@uillinois.edu). Thank you for so generously sharing your work!

Nicole Stewart

Office of University Audits
University of Illinois

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Morning,

I am relatively new to my role as Budget Manager at Principia College, and my predecessor has thousands of files in Microsoft OneDrive that I have access to. Instead of sifting through every file, I set up a SharePoint Agent that can reference meeting notes, find budget proposals in prior years, and more. After refining the instructions, it has become very useful. I have set up agents for other tasks, such as referring to our extensive base of restricted funds set up by donors. Happy to share the instructions I've given the AI for referencing my predecessor's work. Our College has an AI usage policy, a list of approved AI tools, etc. 

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Good morning, 

At Texas State University, we've been applying AI and automation primarily within our IT procurement and contract management workflows, and we've seen measurable improvements that may align with what you're exploring. We've introduced AI in contract review, redlining, and compliance verification. The technology analyzes workflows, flags redundant steps, and translates complex legal or policy language into clearer terms for vendors. We piloted several platforms (ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and Perplexity) to compare performance. Ultimately, we built a custom AI chatbot trained on state, system, and university policies to generate reliable contract insights and accelerate reviews. Out outcomes were measures and found that the full procurement cycle time was reduced by 42% and our contract negotiation time was down by 31%. We found that using AI improved accuracy, transparency, and consistency in our documentation while finding challenges that we needed to do what we could to overcome. We determined that AI needs strong human oversight, we still conduct clause-by-clause reviews for quality control. With compliance being a priority training AI with institution-specific policies was critical for producing trustworthy outputs.

As a university, we are now exploring expansion into invoice and spend analytics for anomaly detection and forecasting, while continuing to balance automation with human judgment.

Hope this helps but if you have any other questions, please reach out. 

-Lauren Clawson

------------------------------
Lauren Clawson
Director of IT Business Services
Texas State University

Original Message:
Sent: 10-20-2025 11:38 AM
From: Tanner Grubbs
Subject: AI and automation in higher ed

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

------------------------------
Tanner Grubbs
Functional Systems Analyst Sr.
University of Kansas
------------------------------

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

------------------------------
Tanner Grubbs
Functional Systems Analyst Sr.
University of Kansas
------------------------------

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

I can share how we've approached AI in financial operations at UC San Diego, since it might give you some ideas for your own institution. Over the past few years, we've been steadily modernizing our administrative and financial systems to make them more connected, responsive, and accurate.

One of the biggest changes has come from developing our own AI solutions in-house. For example, we have TritonGPT, which is a generative AI assistant built and hosted here on campus at the San Diego Supercomputer Center. Because it's running on our own infrastructure, we can tailor it to our policies, data governance rules, and day‑to‑day workflows. It's already supporting staff with routine tasks like drafting emails, creating accurate job descriptions, and responding to common inquiries. We developed an assistant called Fund Manager Coach that helps fund managers navigate complex grant and departmental finance requirements. We are also working with our Procurement team to develop a contract review assistant to expedite contract processing times and we are leveraging AI and automation with our Accounting team for supporting compliance with GASB requirements. Our custom approach gives us control over accuracy, privacy, and ongoing refinement based on staff feedback. We have demos of a few of our assistants on our TritonGPT UCSD Blink website, if you are interested.

It hasn't been without its challenges. Protecting sensitive financial data has been critical, so we've kept confidential information away from external AI tools unless there are clear contractual safeguards. Right now, we also make available a wide-variety of AI tools for our campus (Google Gemini & NotebookLM, Copilot, Zoom AI, and we have enabled some AI features in our cloud-based platforms). We've also found that training is essential. Staff need to understand AI's limits and know that human oversight is still a must. The technology is at its best when it's working alongside experts who can interpret and guide it.

What's been most valuable is the way these tools have freed up time and capacity for more analytical and strategic work. The next step is to build AI into the majority of our business processes in order to fully scale the use of AI across the campus. Leveraging AI to develop more automation in our processes is a critical next step as well to reduce administrative burden. We are currently hiring an AI Engagement Director in my unit to assist with broad adoption and to measure the impacts of these projects. If you're considering a similar journey, I'd say that controlling your infrastructure, involving your staff early, and planning for ongoing refinement are key to making the technology truly work for your institution.

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

I can share how we've approached AI in financial operations at UC San Diego, since it might give you some ideas for your own institution. Over the past few years, we've been steadily modernizing our administrative and financial systems to make them more connected, responsive, and accurate.

One of the biggest changes has come from developing our own AI solutions in-house. For example, we have TritonGPT, which is a generative AI assistant built and hosted here on campus at the San Diego Supercomputer Center. Because it's running on our own infrastructure, we can tailor it to our policies, data governance rules, and day‑to‑day workflows. It's already supporting staff with routine tasks like drafting emails, creating accurate job descriptions, and responding to common inquiries. We developed an assistant called Fund Manager Coach that helps fund managers navigate complex grant and departmental finance requirements. We are also working with our Procurement team to develop a contract review assistant to expedite contract processing times and we are leveraging AI and automation with our Accounting team for supporting compliance with GASB requirements. Our custom approach gives us control over accuracy, privacy, and ongoing refinement based on staff feedback. We have demos of a few of our assistants on our TritonGPT UCSD Blink website, if you are interested.

It hasn't been without its challenges. Protecting sensitive financial data has been critical, so we've kept confidential information away from external AI tools unless there are clear contractual safeguards. Right now, we also make available a wide-variety of AI tools for our campus (Google Gemini & NotebookLM, Copilot, Zoom AI, and we have enabled some AI features in our cloud-based platforms). We've also found that training is essential. Staff need to understand AI's limits and know that human oversight is still a must. The technology is at its best when it's working alongside experts who can interpret and guide it.

What's been most valuable is the way these tools have freed up time and capacity for more analytical and strategic work. The next step is to build AI into the majority of our business processes in order to fully scale the use of AI across the campus. Leveraging AI to develop more automation in our processes is a critical next step as well to reduce administrative burden. We are currently hiring an AI Engagement Director in my unit to assist with broad adoption and to measure the impacts of these projects. If you're considering a similar journey, I'd say that controlling your infrastructure, involving your staff early, and planning for ongoing refinement are key to making the technology truly work for your institution.

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner

Hello colleagues,

I'm reaching out to learn more about how higher ed institutions are currently using AI and automation in their financial processes. As we explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and accuracy in our own operations, I'd greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences.

Specifically, I'm curious about:

• Which financial processes (if any) you've implemented AI tools for
• What types of AI solutions you're using (vendor products, custom-built, or hybrid)
• Any measurable outcomes or lessons learned you'd be willing to share
• Challenges or considerations that emerged during implementation

Whether you're in early exploration, mid-implementation, or have established AI-enabled processes, I'd value your insights. Even if you've decided not to pursue AI in certain areas, that perspective would be helpful too.

Feel free to reach out to me directly if you prefer. Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

-Tanner