New research reveals that the majority of B2B finance departments are receiving a positive ROI from accounts receivable (AR) software, confirming the transformative potential of AI and automation.
The research study, conducted by global research firm Vanson Bourne and commissioned by Billtrust, a B2B order-to-cash software and digital payments provider, “surveyed 500 finance professionals across industries in early 2025.”
It explores the current state of AR automation and how finance professionals are prioritizing technology investments in “an increasingly complex economic environment.”
The research, summarized in a new report, shows “value from AR software which emphasizes the urgent need to implement it.”
Key findings include:
- AR automation accelerates payments by 40%.
- 92% agree that AR software results in faster cash flow.
- 100% see value in their AR automation software.
- 90% of respondents consider AI-driven automation essential to the future of their AR operations.
- 93% say AR software has met or exceeded ROI expectations.
Bob Purcell, CFO at Billtrust said:
“This latest research reveals a game-changing reality: 93% of companies are reaping the expected rewards of AR automation, proving it’s a wise investment. In an era w here digital payments are revolutionizing the financial landscape, leveraging AR software isn’t just smart—it’s essential for catapulting your business to the forefront of innovation and success.”
The research also shows that AI is becoming a “vital part of AR software. AI automation (90%), predictive analytics (89%), data analysis (89%), and AI agents (88%) are seen as critical components by most respondents, adding meaningful value across the AR lifecycle.”
In addition, respondents report positive benefits to AI with:
- 56% better managing compliance vs. 34% without AI.
- 54% enhancing customer experience vs. 28% without AI.
- 47% reducing days-to-pay metrics vs. 36% without AI.
Lauren Budd, Senior Research Manager at Vanson Bourne, who led the research effort said:
“Finance departments are being asked to do more than ever—manage risk, optimize cash flow, and guide strategy. The organizations that embrace automation and AI aren’t just gaining efficiency—they’re building resilience.”
As covered, finance professionals turn to Billtrust to get paid faster “while controlling costs, accelerating cash flow, and maximizing customer satisfaction.”
As a B2B order-to-cash software and digital payments market participant, Billtrust helps brands move finance forward “with AI-powered solutions to transition from expensive paper invoicing and check acceptance to efficient electronic billing and payments.”
With more than $1 trillion invoice dollars processed, Billtrust delivers business value “through industry expertise and a culture focused on delivering meaningful customer outcomes.”
As noted in the update, Vanson Bourne is an independent specialist in market research for the technology sector.
Their reputation for research-based analysis is reportedly founded upon “rigorous research principles and their ability to seek the opinions of senior decision makers across technical and business functions, in all business sectors and all major markets.”