How Technology is Changing the Way CPAs Do Business

Source: Public Practice

In this article, Roman Cepczyk discusses several technology “game-changers” that have a significant impact on the ways CPAs and CPA firms use information technology:

• Secure computing anytime, anywhere. 4G digital cellular data networks are enabling CPAs to work in the field without relying on the data and safety limitations of their own, or their clients', portable workstations. Rather than taking data with them on storage devices or hoping to access the Internet through their clients' networks, firm employees working in the field are increasingly able to access their firm's secure data via Internet coverage that is accessible virtually everywhere.
• Cloud computing for secure, remotely accessible data. Hand in hand with the ability to access data remotely via the “everywhere Internet” is the need to access that data securely. Firms of all sizes are either developing their own data cloud from which employees can work or utilizing a cloud vendor that provides secure data storage and access.
• Improved hardware. Streamlined, Internet-accessing hardware is increasingly available, and increasingly portable, making it increasingly easier to access the Internet and work on the go.
• Digital data. From the start of a work project, accountants can use secure, digital means to obtain a client's data, use that data for work, transfer it to coworkers, etc., all the way to project completion. Digital workflow tools and programs are having a significant impact on tax returns, auditing, invoicing, and information management in general.

For the complete article, read “Accounting Technology Game Changers.”

From Public Practice, Texas Society of CPAs, August 2012, http://www.tscpa.org.