Digital working papers: A smarter way for Irish and EU accountants to stay compliant and in control

May 28, 2025

Published by : Nicola Costello

 

Cloud-based working papers are changing the game – are you keeping up? 

If your accounting practice is still knee-deep in spreadsheets and email chains, it’s time to reassess. Digital working papers aren’t just a trendy upgrade, they’re becoming the backbone of modern, efficient accounting across Ireland and the EU. 

In this blog, we’ll unpack what digital working papers really are, how they align with EU regulatory standards, and why platforms like MyWorkpapers are becoming essential for forward-thinking firms. 

 

What exactly are working papers? 

Working papers are the records and documentation that support financial statements. Whether you’re preparing for internal checks or an external assurance process, these documents are your evidence trail, ensuring transparency, accuracy and compliance with standards like IFRS and local GAAP. 

But here’s the kicker: manual systems often lead to missed documents, duplicated efforts, and panicked file hunts. That’s why Irish and EU firms are moving to structured, digital solutions. 

 

5 reasons Irish and EU firms are embracing digital working papers 

  1. Save time on admin

Manual working papers can take hours to collate, review and file. Digital systems like MyWorkpapers automate the heavy lifting – freeing you up for higher-value work. 

  1. Built-in compliance confidence

Stay aligned with IFRS, ISAs, and local GAAP frameworks in real time. Digital working papers help ensure you’re prepared for scrutiny – without the last-minute panic. 

  1. Collaborate seamlessly

Remote working? No problem. Digital working papers allow teams to collaborate securely across borders, departments or offices, with version control and access rights built in. 

  1. Custom workflows, standardised outputs

Set up your own templates, checklists and review processes – standardising quality across your team while adapting to different client needs. 

  1. Secure, EU-compliant storage

Cloud-based working paper platforms like MyWorkpapers offer secure servers with full GDPR compliance and permission-based access – critical for client confidentiality. 

 

The recurring nightmare: Where is that document? 

It’s always when the pressure’s on – the partner’s asking for the summary schedule, the client’s on hold, and you’re elbow-deep in folder chaos. Sound familiar? 

Digital working papers mean everything has a home. Every document is searchable, traceable, and version-locked. One platform. No excuses. 

 

Digital working paper best practices 

Don’t delay – structure early: Build working papers progressively, not reactively. 

Automate admin: Let the platform handle referencing, roll forwards and archiving. 

Use them for internal review: They’re not just for audits – structured records make team review and approval much easier. 

Keep client data safe: Use platforms with data hosting in the EU and full GDPR compliance. 

 

Why MyWorkpapers works for Irish and EU accountants 

MyWorkpapers provides a cloud-based platform tailored to the regulatory needs of Irish and EU accounting professionals. With customisable templates, secure storage, and compliance-first workflows, it’s more than a document hub – it’s a productivity tool. 

👉 Explore the platform today 

 

FAQs 

1. What are digital working papers?

They’re the digital records that support financial statements and compliance, replacing chaotic manual systems.

2. Are they IFRS compliant?

Yes – digital working papers help maintain compliance with IFRS and national standards.

3. Are they just for big firms?

Not at all – small and mid-sized firms gain even more by cutting manual overhead.

4. What if I have multiple reviewers?

Digital working papers allow for secure, structured collaboration with review permissions and audit trails.

5. Can I customise them?

Absolutely. Create workflows and templates to suit your team, engagement type or client base.

6. Is MyWorkpapers GDPR compliant?

Yes –  MyWorkpapers is hosted securely with full compliance for EU data protection laws.

 

Time to switch? 

If you’re still chasing down files or doing version control by email, it’s time for an upgrade. Digital working papers save time, reduce risk, and keep you regulation-ready. 

See how MyWorkpapers supports Irish and EU firms 

 

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