News
The digital transformation of accounting: Enhancing reporting with advanced tools
January 21, 2025
The digital transformation of accounting is happening now. Adopting modern technology is no longer optional for public accounting firms seeking to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world.
Loss Prevention Trend: The Information Security Plan (“ISP” or “WISP”)
Member Only Content December 17, 2024
Maintaining a WISP is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every firm needs to ensure they have the required safeguards in place for their size, complexity, and the nature and scope of services.
Balancing automation and staffing in finance
December 13, 2024
More revenue often means more people are needed to keep the organization’s finance function running. But how do you know if staffing levels in your finance department are aligned with standards for your industry and organization size?
Gravitating to gen AI: CPA leaders show increased interest
December 13, 2024
More than 3 in 5 business executives surveyed by AICPA & CIMA are at least contemplating the use of generative AI, signaling that broad adoption could be around the corner.
Do you have an AI policy? Why you should and how to get started
Member Only Content December 11, 2024
As artificial intelligence continues to become more prevalent in every aspect of our lives, experts say now is the time to ensure you have an AI policy to protect your organization, your employees and your clients.
Tax professional tips for creating a data security plan
December 06, 2024
Tax professionals should always be evaluating and adjusting their WISP based on relevant circumstances, changes in the firm's business or operations or the results of security testing and monitoring.
Vulnerable targets: How not-for-profits can prevent money laundering and fraud
December 06, 2024
With fewer resources and oversight, not-for-profits can be more susceptible to financial wrongdoing. Three experts discuss how accounting and finance teams can prevent these attacks.
Creating a more efficient firm: Best practices, offshoring, and preparing for a successful season
December 01, 2024
In today’s competitive business environment, accounting and tax firms must continually strive for efficiency and effectiveness. The path to achieving a more efficient firm involves adopting best practices, exploring offshoring options, and meticulously preparing for the peak season.
Using Excel’s Scenario Manager for decision-making
November 26, 2024
Want to learn more about how to quickly list financial projections? This Tech Q&A column item shows how to model and compare multiple “what if” possibilities using Excel Scenario Manager.
Using AI for an R&D Study?
Member Only Content November 15, 2024
Rick Meyer, CPA, cautions CPAs against over-reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) for complex tax matters, such as R&D credit studies, emphasizing that AI lacks the nuanced judgment and expertise required for such tasks. While AI can assist with routine tasks, Meyer advises CPAs to remain vigilant and uphold their critical advisory role to protect clients from potential financial risks and IRS scrutiny.
Key skills for CPAs in business and industry
November 14, 2024
Leaders from corporate finance and the profession share their advice for upskilling and reskilling for the next era of management accounting.
Using Copilot in Microsoft Outlook
November 07, 2024
Many firms and finance functions require their accountants to use Microsoft Copilot instead of ChatGPT as their generative artificial intelligence tool. Here are some prompt ideas for using Copilot with Microsoft Outlook.
Data analytics in financial reporting: Enhancing decision-making in accounting
October 18, 2024
The increased use of data analytics (DA) across various industries has improved overall operations and business efficiency. For example, in the financial sector, the opportunities for accountants through the effective use of data analytics in financial reporting are massive. DA helps accountants make fast, informed decisions for their clients or companies.
4 Windows 11 features worth your time
October 17, 2024
This item from the Technology Q&A column in the October Journal of Accountancy introduces a quartet of cool features in Windows 11.
10 types of Excel charts for data visualization
October 10, 2024
This item from the Technology Q&A column in the October JofA features some of the most useful Excel charts, starting with the basic ones and moving to the more advanced.
10 tips to help avoid wire fraud scams
October 03, 2024
How can accounting firms and finance departments lower their risk of falling victim to a wire fraud scam? Find out 10 steps to take before, during, and after sending the money.
Podcast: The value of time with Lisa Griffith
October 03, 2024
In a recent Digital CPA podcast episode, CPA.com hosts Kacee Johnson and Kalil Merhib talk with Lisa Griffith of automation company Laurel about shifting from traditional billing to value-based approaches. Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming time management and boosting firms’ performance and profitability.
Using data to optimize marketing and sales strategies
September 30, 2024
Understanding customer acquisition cost, customer lifetime value, and their interdependent relationship is pivotal for strategic business planning. Learning to access and compute this data can lead to making better decisions about where to spend advertising money.
Podcast: Building digital readiness
September 26, 2024
In a recent episode of the Digital CPA podcast, CPA.com hosts Kacee Johnson and Kalil Merhib are joined by Digilence CEO Chad Osgood to explore the future of digital transformation in CPA firms.
Using ChatGPT-4o with Excel
September 19, 2024
Kelly Williams thought ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4 were impressive. Then she tried ChatGPT-4o and was blown away. Learn about this powerful tool — and ways CPAs can use it — in this Tech Q&A article.