Choosing an Accounting Association

Source: Accounting Today

How do you choose an association of accounting firms? Decide which features and benefits you are seeking. Then prepare a spreadsheet to compare the offerings of different associations.

Some offerings provided by some associations, but not all, include:

• Reference library.
• Referrals.
• Training and CPE.
• Data on member firms.
• Annual conferences.

Be prepared to be a contributor. Most associations shun firms that only take from them and don’t reciprocate.

Learn the difference between a network and an association. Networks are groups of firms that may share a brand name, collaborate on strategies, have common control of firms, adopt association-designed processes such as quality control, etc.

Network firms must be independent of compliance clients of all other network firms.

It is beneficial to both the association and the prospective member to attend a meeting. The association may pay for the cost if the firm is later determined to be qualified.

Traditionally, associations allowed only one firm in a market, but that may be changing. One association has multiple members in approximately 12 cities.

For the complete article, click here and select the article Firm Associations: It’s Also About Giving Back in the May 19, 2008, issue.

From Accounting Today, May 19, 2008, SourceMedia Inc., One State Street Plaza, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10004, 800-221-1809.

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