Guest Lecture: Accounting Paper Competition and National Seminar 2024

On November 10, 2024, Politeknik Negeri Malang held its highly anticipated “Accounting Paper Competition and National Seminar 2024.” The event drew students, academics, and industry professionals eager to delve into advancements in accounting and technological applications for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The highlight of the seminar was a keynote presentation by Ida Bagus Kertyayana Manuaba, S.T., Ph.D., a lecturer in computer science from Binus University International and an active SME observer.

One of the key highlights was the seminar session featuring Ida Bagus Kertyayana Manuaba, S.T., Ph.D., a lecturer of computer science at Binus University International and an observer of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs/UMKM). Mr. Bagus, with his extensive knowledge of computer science and hands-on experience with SMEs, shared insights on how RPA could be a transformative tool for small businesses seeking to enhance their operational efficiency and improve strategic decision-making.

In his presentation, Mr. Bagus emphasized the importance of automation for SMEs. With RPA, tasks that are traditionally manual, repetitive, and time-consuming can be streamlined, allowing businesses to reduce human error and free up employees for higher-value activities. This technological approach is especially advantageous for SMEs, which often operate with limited resources but have immense growth potential. Sir Bagus highlighted specific RPA applications, such as automating accounting workflows, inventory management, and customer service processes—showing that even small companies can now afford the benefits of automation that were once exclusive to larger enterprises.

Beyond operational efficiency, Mr. Bagus pointed out that RPA can also play a vital role in data-driven decision-making. With automation, businesses can gather and analyze data more effectively, enabling owners and managers to make informed decisions swiftly and confidently. This strategic use of RPA has the potential to reshape the competitive landscape, helping SMEs to adapt to market changes and scale sustainably.

The seminar concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where attendees asked practical questions about implementing RPA in their businesses. Mr. Bagus’s responses inspired attendees, helping them envision the potential of RPA to support SME growth.

The Accounting Paper Competition and National Seminar 2024 proved to be a significant event for the academic and business communities in Malang, fostering a collaborative environment for innovation. This initiative by Politeknik Negeri Malang not only underscored the importance of technological literacy in today’s digital age but also empowered SMEs to consider RPA as a viable pathway to drive efficiency, competitiveness, and strategic development.