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We have started exploring how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be used to improve our software. Our goal is to make your accounting work easier, faster, and more effective. Many people have heard about AI, but not everyone is familiar with what it is or how it can be helpful in practice.
This guide explains AI in simple terms and introduces the GPT assistants we are developing for Banana Accounting Plus.
What is AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that can "think" and "learn" in ways similar to humans. AI can read, understand, and generate information, helping you complete tasks more efficiently. Instead of just following fixed instructions, AI can adapt to your request and provide smart answers.
We see AI as a helpful assistant that works with you. It does not replace you; it supports you. For example, AI can:
- Suggest solutions when you are not sure how to proceed.
- Generate formulas or code snippets that you can use directly.
- Answer questions about the software without you having to search through long manuals.
What is ChatGPT
One of the most popular AI tools today is ChatGPT. It is an advanced program that allows you to communicate with AI through a simple chat box, just like talking to a person. You write a question or describe a task, and ChatGPT replies in natural language.
Key points about ChatGPT:
- It has been trained on a huge amount of text so it understands many topics.
- You don’t need technical knowledge; you just ask questions in plain language.
- It can explain, generate ideas, and even write text or code.
However, there is one limitation: standard ChatGPT is very general. It tries to answer anything in the world, from cooking recipes to physics problems. While that is useful, it means it doesn’t always know the specifics of Banana Accounting Plus.
What is a GPT
GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is the name of the artificial intelligence technology used by ChatGPT.
The great thing is that we can create Custom GPTs: special versions of ChatGPT that are configured with specific knowledge and instructions, focusing on particular topics or tasks.
Think of it this way:
- Standard ChatGPT: Like a general encyclopedia. It has a lot of knowledge but may not know your specific situation.
- Custom GPTs: Like specialized assistants that have studied specific information and follow given instructions. They provide answers focused on particular topics or needs.
- Example: Banana GPTs are specialized assistants that have read our documentation and follow our instructions. They provide answers specific to Banana Accounting Plus.
How do GPTs work
- You still use the same ChatGPT chat interface. Type your questions in the chat box and read the answers in the conversation.
- Instead of using the general ChatGPT, you select the GPT created for a specific purpose.
- The answers are more reliable, precise, and relevant to the specific topic or purpose.
Note: Using GPTs requires a ChatGPT Plus subscription (paid).
Banana Accounting GPT Assistants
We have created several GPT assistants designed to help with different areas of Banana Accounting. All of these GPTs are created using specific instructions and the documentation published on our website. Below is the list of available assistants, what they do, and when to use them.
Accounting GPTs
- Command generator for Filter search GPT
Helps you build advanced search commands to filter rows in the Transactions table. Ideal when you need to find specific transactions using complex criteria but don’t know the exact syntax. - Budget Formula Creator GPT
Generates calculation formulas for the Budget table. Useful if you want to calculate values (like percentages or projections) and aren’t sure how to write the formula.
Extensions GPTs
Extensions GPTs allow you to expand Banana Accounting’s functionality. We have multiple GPTs to help you with this area:
- Extensions Maker GPT
Assists in creating extensions and answers questions related to extension development. Perfect when you need a custom report extension that uses and displays accounting data. - Extensions GPT Documentation
Provides support for creating extensions using only our official documentation (without additional instructions). Best suited when you want need a custom report extension that uses and displays accounting data. - Journal Transactions GPT
Creates extensions to generate reports with current and budget transactions extracted from the Journal of the accounting file. Useful if you need a custom report extension that processes and displays transaction data. - CSV Importer GPT
Builds extensions for importing bank transactions from CSV files. It uses the Parameterizable Extension template and automatically adapts the JavaScript parameters to match the structure of the CSV files you upload in chat. Perfect when you need to import bank transactions from a CSV file with a custom extension.
How to use a Banana Accounting GPTs
To use a Banana Accounting GPT:
- Choose the GPT assistant you need (see the list above) by opening the link provided on the corresponding page.
- Write your question or describe the problem in the chat.
- The GPT will respond with answers relevant to Banana Accounting, using our documentation and predefined instructions.
- Copy the code or text generated by GPT and use it in Banana.
- After you use a GPT, it stays saved on the left side (above your chats), making it easy to open again later with a single click.
Excel and Office Scripts Integration with Banana Accounting
- Excel Reports Add-in
Create worksheets in Excel with formulas, charts, formatting, and more. The add-in automatically retrieves the data from your Banana Accounting file. - Excel Custom Functions
The free Banana Accounting Functions Add-in lets you retrieve and display accounting data in Excel using simple formulas. - Office Scripts
With Banana Accounting Plus, you can use Office Scripts in Excel (the modern successor to VBA) to retrieve and display your accounting data. Data is accessed through the integrated Banana Web Server. - Excel VBA functions
Access your accounting data directly in Excel through VBA functions. (Note: this technology has been replaced by the newer Excel Add-in and Office Scripts.)
Other
Following you find documentation that is only mantained in English: