Technology

Product Manager, CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business, McPherson, KS

Column: Final Thoughts

Engagement and Trial Balance systems can be the heart of a full-service accounting firm, and advanced systems can help a practice improve efficiency. In any engagement, there are specific workflow processes, which can be streamlined using Engagement management systems. On the Trial Balance side, increased efficiency and productivity can be achieved by doing more than just electronically handling the grouping and adjustment of GL account information, but also taking advantage of tools and features that promote collaboration, standardization, accuracy and communication.

Column: From the Trenches

The universe of accounting and accountants continues to undergo major shifts. One of those shifts is the recognition that every-one can choose when and where they are willing to conduct business. This includes the 24 hour, 7 days per week model. Supermarkets are always open. Gas stations and bank ATM machines are always accessible. Customer support is accessible from locations around the globe.

If you’re young enough, think back to the period starting in the early 1980s. In the accounting technology world, we were making the gargantuan leap from the VisiCalc spreadsheet and WordStar word processing software to Lotus 1-2-3 and WordPerfect.

The past 12 months have been the most dynamic period for the professional tax preparation market in several years. We’ve seen new technology developments in many of the programs, as well as blockbuster business deals that have left three major companies in charge of the tax software used by more than 80 percent of tax and accounting professionals.

have worked on an enormous array of software products over the years, including standard accounting programs, products for nonprofits and property managers, and specialty products for the music industry. But one of the more difficult specialty genres I’ve encountered is construction.