ATX — Total Tax Office

The system provides both a forms-based entry mode and an interview method,
allowing users to select the most comfortable technique. The interview method
is actually more of a guided form-based mode, however, with the screen splitting
into two sections: The top offers a line-by-line explanation of what the data
requirement is, while the bottom shows the actual form where data is entered.
This method of entry is ideal for novice or irregular preparers since it provides
good assistance while also letting them gain familiarity with the actual forms.
Additionally, a virtual assistant is available that provides additional guidance.
When creating new client returns, the user simply selects the entity type, then
the form to be started. For primary forms (1040, 1120, 1065, etc.), the system
automatically attaches required supporting forms and schedules to the return.

When within a client return, all forms and schedules are accessible via tabs
across the top of the work area. Additional tabs across the bottom of the screen
allow users to easily move between the pages of a form, jump to specific sections
(such as dependent data, income and deductions), or view summary information,
a checklist, preparer data and other options. The system maintains a running
tax due/refund due total at the top right of the screen. As with most tax preparation
programs, Total Tax Office can only open one return at a time, but users can
check summary data on other returns by using the Easy View function without
having to close out of a return in progress. Overall, the system’s interface
and general use is very intuitive, allowing users to be comfortable with the
system during first use.

Use/Workflow & Productivity Tools — 4 Stars
As mentioned previously, the program is centered around the Return Manager and
client list, offering an almost one-stop location for summary information on
clients. The exception is that this list does not offer return status, which
can be viewed from the Tax Warehouse tab. One of Total Tax Office’s most
notable features is the inclusion of Kleinrock’s research offerings, which
includes the tax vendor’s Federal TaxExpert, All States TaxExpert, Employment
TaxExpert, the Quick Answers Library, Federal Tax Bulletin, Total Tax Guide,
and additional materials. These research materials can be accessed online or
via CD, and research can be linked to client returns.

In general, the program guides users through the return preparation process,
with right-click access to line-specific instructions and assistance, thereby
aiding in workflow for less experienced users while enabling more savvy preparers
to quickly move between forms and other preparation tasks. The system includes
the ability to attach notes or mark areas of the return for review purposes,
and also provides drill-down capability from form lines to associated forms
and schedules, but does not include a formalized review process. ATX also includes
online client organizers that reduce data-entry time, a sales tax compliance
application, an AR component with an aging report, a depreciation schedule for
basic asset management and a quick calculator function. Client documents and
returns can be generated into *.PDF format, aiding in the paperless process
and in electronic client communication and collaboration.

Integration/Import & Export — 4.5 Stars
As a suite of tax products, ATX transfers data between components as necessary
including, new (finally) for TY2005, two-way K-1 data sharing and enhanced transfer
between associated parent/child returns. Although the system does not directly
integrate with third-party accounting systems, ATX can pull in data from Excel
documents, which means that it can access data from most such programs through
a two-step import-then-export process. The vendor provides free conversion from
most major tax preparation programs. As noted above, the system integrates with
Kleinrock’s tax research products, allowing linking of research materials
to specific return lines.

Support/Training & Help System — 4.5 Stars
Total Tax Office provides good built-in Help with right-click access to line-by-line
instructions, content-sensitive Help and the optional virtual assistant, in
addition to tutorials, documentation and links to web-based training. The company
does not offer in-person training options. ATX also offers an online user community
called ATXers, where users can assist each other with “real life”
return issues and treatment. The vendor’s phone-based support, which is
included in the program, has been the subject of recent postings on some user
boards because of the company’s purported use of external support representatives.
The company noted that more than 90 percent of support calls are handled by
ATX staff in Maine, with only overflow of technical issues going to an external
source during peak demand times.

Product Evolution & Vendor Vision — 4 Stars
ATX has focused much of its recent development efforts toward online utilities
and integration with Kleinrock’s research libraries, in addition to its
obvious continued efforts toward maintaining an exceptional user interface.
The company was a little delayed in incorporating K-1 integration capability,
but the program now is capable of handling this much needed function, and ATX
seems to be focusing development on enabling the program to handle more complex
returns. As I said in last year’s review of this product, although neither
the tax nor the research components are the strongest on the market, the integration
of these functions at such a moderate price and with such a friendly user interface
is remarkable.

Relative Value — 4.5 Stars
ATX provides the easiest and most intuitive user interface of the comprehensive
professional tax programs reviewed. With form and interview data-entry options
and abundant assistance features, in addition to online Help resources and good
research integration, and all at a very attractive price point, ATX Total Tax
Office provides an excellent mid-market tax preparation option. Although the
recent K-1 and other data flow improvements increase the capabilities of the
system, it is still ideally suited primarily for smaller and midsize firms with
less complex client bases.

2006 Overall Rating — 4.5 Stars