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K2's Multi-State Tech Conference - A Virtual Event

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16.00 Credits

Member Price $485.00

Non-Member Price $565.00

Tuesday, November 18

General Session

- K2's Tech Update

Randy Johnston, K2 Enterprises

Randy Johnston

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston
Chairman and CEO
K2 Enterprises and Network Management Group, Inc.

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston, MCS has been a top-rated speaker in the technology industry for over 40 years. Inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2011, Randy is listed as a Top 25 Thought Leader in Accounting from 2011-2021. His influence throughout the accounting profession is highlighted once again this year by being a recipient of the 2020 Accounting Today Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting award for the seventeenth consecutive year. Among his many other awards, he holds the honor of being one of nine technology stars in the U.S. by Accounting Technology Magazine. Randy writes a monthly column for The CPA Practice Advisor, features for the Journal of Accountancy, and creates articles for both accounting and technology publications, as well as being the author of numerous books. He has started and owns multiple businesses, including K2 Enterprises in Hammond, Louisiana, and Network Management Group, Inc. in Hutchinson, Kansas. NMGI has supported CPA firms for 30+ years and is the largest managed service provider serving the CPA profession in North America.

His wife and four children enjoy many experiences together, including theatre, music, travel, golf, skiing, snorkeling, and model trains.

Staying up to date with advances in today's technology has never been more vital, and K2's Tech Update equips you with the knowledge to stay ahead of the rapid pace of innovation. This comprehensive session is designed for accountants who want to understand the evolving technological landscape and its implications for the accounting profession.

Major Topics
• Trends in AI and machine learning
• Applications of quantum computing in accounting and finance
• The growing role of blockchain and digital currencies in accounting
• Innovations in software and hardware

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Trends in AI and machine learning
• Applications of quantum computing in accounting and finance
• The growing role of blockchain and digital currencies in accounting
• Innovations in software and hardware

Credits: 2 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Break

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

- CPA Firm Update

Randy Johnston, K2 Enterprises

Randy Johnston

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston
Chairman and CEO
K2 Enterprises and Network Management Group, Inc.

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston, MCS has been a top-rated speaker in the technology industry for over 40 years. Inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2011, Randy is listed as a Top 25 Thought Leader in Accounting from 2011-2021. His influence throughout the accounting profession is highlighted once again this year by being a recipient of the 2020 Accounting Today Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting award for the seventeenth consecutive year. Among his many other awards, he holds the honor of being one of nine technology stars in the U.S. by Accounting Technology Magazine. Randy writes a monthly column for The CPA Practice Advisor, features for the Journal of Accountancy, and creates articles for both accounting and technology publications, as well as being the author of numerous books. He has started and owns multiple businesses, including K2 Enterprises in Hammond, Louisiana, and Network Management Group, Inc. in Hutchinson, Kansas. NMGI has supported CPA firms for 30+ years and is the largest managed service provider serving the CPA profession in North America.

His wife and four children enjoy many experiences together, including theatre, music, travel, golf, skiing, snorkeling, and model trains.

If you work in a public accounting practice, this session is a must to understand how technology developments will change how you and your team operate.  

Major Topics
• Emerging trends like changes in client expectations, supplier strategies, and competitive dynamics
• AI and advanced software innovations with tailored solutions for service lines like tax, audit, advisory, and niche industries
• Next-gen automation tools, including the role of machine learning, RPA, and advanced analytics in streamlining operations
• Optimal technology stacks to enhance firm productivity, efficiency, and profitability
• Cybersecurity advancements. Proactive approaches to safeguarding client and firm data
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Understand supplier and market changes impacting the profession
• Compare and assess software solutions for various service lines and specialties
• Explore emerging technologies that enhance efficiency and deliver competitive advantages
• Select the most suitable technology stack for your firm’s long-term success

Credits: 2 - Accounting

This session is available to registrants only.

- Taking a Fresh Look at Teams

Thomas Stephens, Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., P.C.

Thomas Stephens

Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. Upon graduation, Mr. Stephens began working for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm. After earning his designation as a Certified Public Accountant, Mr. Stephens worked for BellSouth Corporation in Atlanta as an Internal Auditor. After two years as an auditor, he was promoted to Staff Manager and then Operations Manager of the Internal Audit Group. In 1991, he transferred to the Comptrollers’ department of BellSouth and served as Manager of the Cost Accounting organization. While working full-time at BellSouth Corporation, Mr. Stephens also attended graduate school, earning a Masters of Science (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in 1992. Mr. Stephens left BellSouth in 1994 and opened his public accounting practice in the metropolitan Atlanta area. In his practice, Mr. Stephens provided accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a wide variety of small and emerging businesses. As part of his practice, he developed a successful consulting practice providing installation and support services of small business accounting software. Additionally, he began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, Mr. Stephens affiliated with K2 Enterprises and in 2007 he joined the firm as a partner. To date, he has lectured nationally on subjects such as internal controls for small businesses, practice management and marketing, computer hardware and software applications, tax strategies and compliance, and financial accounting standards and applications. Over the past twelve years, Mr. Stephens has presented in excess of 850 educational programs to over 22,000 participants nationwide. Presently, Mr. Stephens resides in Woodstock, Georgia where, in addition to his association with K2 Enterprises, he provides consulting services to small businesses and CPA firms.. In addition to an active professional career, Mr. Stephens enjoys an active personal life as well. He and Michelle – his wife of twenty-two years – have two children. His hobbies include snow skiing, fishing, and running. Additionally, Mr. Stephens is a volunteer with the local school system and is an active member of his church. He also maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants and is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.

If you want to improve financial and operational reporting, now is the time to take another look at Power BI! Many recent enhancements make this tool even stronger and easier to use, so now is the time to take another look at Power BI.

Major Topics
• How Teams got to where it is today
• Major components in Teams
• Collaboration options
• Extending Teams functionality 
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• List examples of core functionality in Teams
• Identify new opportunities to improve Teams-based communications
• Specify how to integrate other services into Teams
• Name options for collaborating with internal and external Teams users
• List some of Teams most significant competitors

Credits: 2 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

- Top Ten Productivity Booster Apps in Microsoft 365

Brian Tankersley, K2 Enterprises

Brian Tankersley

Brian Tankersley is a consultant who advises US firms and companies on accounting technology issues. Mr. Tankersley is a frequent speaker at continuing education courses for K2 Enterprises, and publishes a nationally recognized blog on accounting and technology (www.cpatechblog.com). He has also served as the technology editor for a major accounting industry publication. Mr. Tankersley has over 25 years of professional experience, including accounting, auditing, technology, and education, and has been with K2 Enterprises since 2005, and he is also one of the national instructors for Yaeger CPA Review.

Tankersley has been recognized eight times as one of the “Top 25 Thought Leaders in Public Accounting Technology” by Cygnus Business Media. Brian has made presentations in 48 of the 50 US states and has served as a guest speaker for many professional accounting organizations across Canada.  He has received numerous awards for his writing and speaking from state CPA societies. Brian has presented sessions at most major national accounting technology conferences, including AICPA TECH+/Practitioners Conference, The Sleeter Group’s Solutions Conference, Sage Summit, CCH Connections, and Thomson Reuters Synergy User Conference. 

Brian is a Certified Public Accountant (Tennessee), a Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). He holds bachelor’s degrees in both Accounting and Finance, cum laude, from the University of Tennessee. Tankersley also maintains numerous vendor software certifications, and is a member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs.

There is more to Microsoft 365 than Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Participate in this session to learn about the many productivity-enhancing apps and services included with your Microsoft 365 subscription.

Major Topics
• Enhancing communication and collaboration: Shared Mailboxes, Groups, and Places
• Optimizing task and project management: Planner, Lists, and To Do
• Streamlining training and workflow automation: Stream, Viva Learning, Forms, Bookings, and Approvals

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
Identify and describe the basic functionalities of at least three of the ten productivity apps discussed in this session
Explain how Shared Mailboxes and Groups enhance team communication and help manage departmental emails more effectively
Identify at least two of the three applications that can be used to manage tasks and/or projects available in business and enterprise versions of Microsoft 365

Credits: 2 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Lunch Break

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

- Automation- Beyond the Basics With the Microsoft Power Platform

Brian Tankersley, K2 Enterprises

Brian Tankersley

Brian Tankersley is a consultant who advises US firms and companies on accounting technology issues. Mr. Tankersley is a frequent speaker at continuing education courses for K2 Enterprises, and publishes a nationally recognized blog on accounting and technology (www.cpatechblog.com). He has also served as the technology editor for a major accounting industry publication. Mr. Tankersley has over 25 years of professional experience, including accounting, auditing, technology, and education, and has been with K2 Enterprises since 2005, and he is also one of the national instructors for Yaeger CPA Review.

Tankersley has been recognized eight times as one of the “Top 25 Thought Leaders in Public Accounting Technology” by Cygnus Business Media. Brian has made presentations in 48 of the 50 US states and has served as a guest speaker for many professional accounting organizations across Canada.  He has received numerous awards for his writing and speaking from state CPA societies. Brian has presented sessions at most major national accounting technology conferences, including AICPA TECH+/Practitioners Conference, The Sleeter Group’s Solutions Conference, Sage Summit, CCH Connections, and Thomson Reuters Synergy User Conference. 

Brian is a Certified Public Accountant (Tennessee), a Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). He holds bachelor’s degrees in both Accounting and Finance, cum laude, from the University of Tennessee. Tankersley also maintains numerous vendor software certifications, and is a member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs.

The need to automate business processes continues to expand rapidly. In this session, you will learn how to use Microsoft’s Power Platform to facilitate your automation efforts.

Major Topics
• Explanation and demonstration of the use of a wide range of automation tools with a focus on “low-code/no-code
• Practical examples of real-world applications for Power Platform tools - such as Power Apps and Power Automate, as well as integration into Microsoft Fabric and other solutions
• Challenges and risks of automating business processes
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Design workflows in Power Automate for automating approvals and basic workflows.
• Understand and describe how diverse data sources, including Microsoft Dataverse, can be incorporated into process automation solutions
• Name one of the demonstrated tools used to address specific automation requirements efficiently and accurately

Credits: 2 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

- Collaboration Tools and Best Practices

Thomas Stephens, Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., P.C.

Thomas Stephens

Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. Upon graduation, Mr. Stephens began working for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm. After earning his designation as a Certified Public Accountant, Mr. Stephens worked for BellSouth Corporation in Atlanta as an Internal Auditor. After two years as an auditor, he was promoted to Staff Manager and then Operations Manager of the Internal Audit Group. In 1991, he transferred to the Comptrollers’ department of BellSouth and served as Manager of the Cost Accounting organization. While working full-time at BellSouth Corporation, Mr. Stephens also attended graduate school, earning a Masters of Science (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in 1992. Mr. Stephens left BellSouth in 1994 and opened his public accounting practice in the metropolitan Atlanta area. In his practice, Mr. Stephens provided accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a wide variety of small and emerging businesses. As part of his practice, he developed a successful consulting practice providing installation and support services of small business accounting software. Additionally, he began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, Mr. Stephens affiliated with K2 Enterprises and in 2007 he joined the firm as a partner. To date, he has lectured nationally on subjects such as internal controls for small businesses, practice management and marketing, computer hardware and software applications, tax strategies and compliance, and financial accounting standards and applications. Over the past twelve years, Mr. Stephens has presented in excess of 850 educational programs to over 22,000 participants nationwide. Presently, Mr. Stephens resides in Woodstock, Georgia where, in addition to his association with K2 Enterprises, he provides consulting services to small businesses and CPA firms.. In addition to an active professional career, Mr. Stephens enjoys an active personal life as well. He and Michelle – his wife of twenty-two years – have two children. His hobbies include snow skiing, fishing, and running. Additionally, Mr. Stephens is a volunteer with the local school system and is an active member of his church. He also maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants and is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.

Effective collaboration tools are needed more today than ever! In this session, you will learn about the best tools, platforms, and strategies needed to collaborate effectively. 

Major Topics
• The primary drivers of collaboration
• Who are the leading collaboration technology providers
• Why collaboration sometimes fails
• Best practices to facilitate collaboration
• Today’s leading collaboration providers and tools
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• List at least three drivers for today’s collaboration needs
• Differentiate between key technology providers in the field of collaboration
• Specify examples of policies and procedures that can enhance collaborative efforts
• Name key benefits and risks associated with collaboration

Credits: 2 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

- Expense Reporting Automation

Randy Johnston, K2 Enterprises

Randy Johnston

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston
Chairman and CEO
K2 Enterprises and Network Management Group, Inc.

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston, MCS has been a top-rated speaker in the technology industry for over 40 years. Inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2011, Randy is listed as a Top 25 Thought Leader in Accounting from 2011-2021. His influence throughout the accounting profession is highlighted once again this year by being a recipient of the 2020 Accounting Today Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting award for the seventeenth consecutive year. Among his many other awards, he holds the honor of being one of nine technology stars in the U.S. by Accounting Technology Magazine. Randy writes a monthly column for The CPA Practice Advisor, features for the Journal of Accountancy, and creates articles for both accounting and technology publications, as well as being the author of numerous books. He has started and owns multiple businesses, including K2 Enterprises in Hammond, Louisiana, and Network Management Group, Inc. in Hutchinson, Kansas. NMGI has supported CPA firms for 30+ years and is the largest managed service provider serving the CPA profession in North America.

His wife and four children enjoy many experiences together, including theatre, music, travel, golf, skiing, snorkeling, and model trains.

Team member expense reporting can be a tiresome and error-prone task that no one likes to perform. In this session, you will learn best practices for expense report automation to ease the pain of this process.

Major Topics
• Overview of selected expense and corporate credit card reporting and management platforms
• Major fraud schemes associated with expense reporting
• Extracting and importing transaction data from bank feeds and matching to receipts

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Select at least two types of employee expenses that are identified as very risky by the course
• Identify at least two common expense reimbursement fraud schemes.
• Choose responses that explain how bank feeds are different from data extraction/OCR applications 
• Identify at least two comprehensive expense reporting solutions discussed in detail during the course which offer both OCR data extraction and mobile receipt capture
• Explain how artificial intelligence can be used to identify unusual items in expense reports

Credits: 2 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Break

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Excel Tips- Today's Best Features

Thomas Stephens, Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., P.C.

Thomas Stephens

Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. Upon graduation, Mr. Stephens began working for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm. After earning his designation as a Certified Public Accountant, Mr. Stephens worked for BellSouth Corporation in Atlanta as an Internal Auditor. After two years as an auditor, he was promoted to Staff Manager and then Operations Manager of the Internal Audit Group. In 1991, he transferred to the Comptrollers’ department of BellSouth and served as Manager of the Cost Accounting organization. While working full-time at BellSouth Corporation, Mr. Stephens also attended graduate school, earning a Masters of Science (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in 1992. Mr. Stephens left BellSouth in 1994 and opened his public accounting practice in the metropolitan Atlanta area. In his practice, Mr. Stephens provided accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a wide variety of small and emerging businesses. As part of his practice, he developed a successful consulting practice providing installation and support services of small business accounting software. Additionally, he began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, Mr. Stephens affiliated with K2 Enterprises and in 2007 he joined the firm as a partner. To date, he has lectured nationally on subjects such as internal controls for small businesses, practice management and marketing, computer hardware and software applications, tax strategies and compliance, and financial accounting standards and applications. Over the past twelve years, Mr. Stephens has presented in excess of 850 educational programs to over 22,000 participants nationwide. Presently, Mr. Stephens resides in Woodstock, Georgia where, in addition to his association with K2 Enterprises, he provides consulting services to small businesses and CPA firms.. In addition to an active professional career, Mr. Stephens enjoys an active personal life as well. He and Michelle – his wife of twenty-two years – have two children. His hobbies include snow skiing, fishing, and running. Additionally, Mr. Stephens is a volunteer with the local school system and is an active member of his church. He also maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants and is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.

Keep up with the latest features, functions, and tools added to Excel by participating in this session. In it, you will learn today’s best features in Excel.

Major Topics
• New features and functions in Excel
• How to improve efficiency and effectiveness when working in Excel
• Taking advantage of Copilot integration with Excel
• Better ways of creating and working with formulas

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• List examples of key new features in Excel and how and why business professionals can take advantage of these tools
• Identify use cases for Excel’s PIVOTBY and GROUPBY functions
• Specify how Office Scripts differ from traditional Excel macros
• Cite examples of using Copilot in conjunction with Excel
• List examples of new opportunities to collaborate with others using Excel

Credits: 2 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

Wednesday, November 19

General Session

- Data Security and Privacy Issues and Solutions

Thomas Stephens, Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., P.C.

Thomas Stephens

Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. Upon graduation, Mr. Stephens began working for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm. After earning his designation as a Certified Public Accountant, Mr. Stephens worked for BellSouth Corporation in Atlanta as an Internal Auditor. After two years as an auditor, he was promoted to Staff Manager and then Operations Manager of the Internal Audit Group. In 1991, he transferred to the Comptrollers’ department of BellSouth and served as Manager of the Cost Accounting organization. While working full-time at BellSouth Corporation, Mr. Stephens also attended graduate school, earning a Masters of Science (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in 1992. Mr. Stephens left BellSouth in 1994 and opened his public accounting practice in the metropolitan Atlanta area. In his practice, Mr. Stephens provided accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a wide variety of small and emerging businesses. As part of his practice, he developed a successful consulting practice providing installation and support services of small business accounting software. Additionally, he began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, Mr. Stephens affiliated with K2 Enterprises and in 2007 he joined the firm as a partner. To date, he has lectured nationally on subjects such as internal controls for small businesses, practice management and marketing, computer hardware and software applications, tax strategies and compliance, and financial accounting standards and applications. Over the past twelve years, Mr. Stephens has presented in excess of 850 educational programs to over 22,000 participants nationwide. Presently, Mr. Stephens resides in Woodstock, Georgia where, in addition to his association with K2 Enterprises, he provides consulting services to small businesses and CPA firms.. In addition to an active professional career, Mr. Stephens enjoys an active personal life as well. He and Michelle – his wife of twenty-two years – have two children. His hobbies include snow skiing, fishing, and running. Additionally, Mr. Stephens is a volunteer with the local school system and is an active member of his church. He also maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants and is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.

If you work in a public accounting practice, this session is a must to understand how technology developments will change how you and your team operate.  

Major Topics
• Understanding the differences between data security and data privacy
• The major types of security and privacy breaches 
• Key steps you can take to mitigate your risks of becoming another victim

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Identify at least five examples of common data security and privacy issues affecting businesses today
• Create estimates of the costs associated with data security and privacy breaches
• List examples of internal control best practices you can use to mitigate your security and privacy risks

Credits: 2 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Break

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

- CRM- The Ultimate Business Automation Tool

Brian Tankersley, K2 Enterprises

Brian Tankersley

Brian Tankersley is a consultant who advises US firms and companies on accounting technology issues. Mr. Tankersley is a frequent speaker at continuing education courses for K2 Enterprises, and publishes a nationally recognized blog on accounting and technology (www.cpatechblog.com). He has also served as the technology editor for a major accounting industry publication. Mr. Tankersley has over 25 years of professional experience, including accounting, auditing, technology, and education, and has been with K2 Enterprises since 2005, and he is also one of the national instructors for Yaeger CPA Review.

Tankersley has been recognized eight times as one of the “Top 25 Thought Leaders in Public Accounting Technology” by Cygnus Business Media. Brian has made presentations in 48 of the 50 US states and has served as a guest speaker for many professional accounting organizations across Canada.  He has received numerous awards for his writing and speaking from state CPA societies. Brian has presented sessions at most major national accounting technology conferences, including AICPA TECH+/Practitioners Conference, The Sleeter Group’s Solutions Conference, Sage Summit, CCH Connections, and Thomson Reuters Synergy User Conference. 

Brian is a Certified Public Accountant (Tennessee), a Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). He holds bachelor’s degrees in both Accounting and Finance, cum laude, from the University of Tennessee. Tankersley also maintains numerous vendor software certifications, and is a member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs.

CRM systems can be an extremely valuable asset for automating customer contacts and interactions. In this session, you will learn how you can transform numerous business processes using CRM technologies.

Major Topics
• Overview of CRM functionalities tailored to accounting, including customizations and integrations
• Integrated tools that leverage CRM data for automating tasks and improving efficiency
• Strategies for successfully adopting a CRM platform and solutions to overcome common challenges
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Define Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and explain its significance in business automation
• Identify key CRM features that optimize accounting and financial workflows
• Name at least two best practices for implementing and customizing CRM systems for use in common accounting workflows

Credits: 2 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

- Client Accounting Services for CPA Firms: Strategies for Growth and Success

Randy Johnston, K2 Enterprises

Randy Johnston

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston
Chairman and CEO
K2 Enterprises and Network Management Group, Inc.

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston, MCS has been a top-rated speaker in the technology industry for over 40 years. Inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2011, Randy is listed as a Top 25 Thought Leader in Accounting from 2011-2021. His influence throughout the accounting profession is highlighted once again this year by being a recipient of the 2020 Accounting Today Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting award for the seventeenth consecutive year. Among his many other awards, he holds the honor of being one of nine technology stars in the U.S. by Accounting Technology Magazine. Randy writes a monthly column for The CPA Practice Advisor, features for the Journal of Accountancy, and creates articles for both accounting and technology publications, as well as being the author of numerous books. He has started and owns multiple businesses, including K2 Enterprises in Hammond, Louisiana, and Network Management Group, Inc. in Hutchinson, Kansas. NMGI has supported CPA firms for 30+ years and is the largest managed service provider serving the CPA profession in North America.

His wife and four children enjoy many experiences together, including theatre, music, travel, golf, skiing, snorkeling, and model trains.

Client Accounting Services (CAS) remain a strong revenue driver for many CPA firms. In this session, you will learn how to succeed by growing this business sector.

Major Topics
• CAS overview to understand the service offerings, client needs, and market opportunities
• Selecting technology tools in CAS for accounting, workflow, and client collaboration
• Designing Service Delivery Models that are scalable and efficient processes for CAS
• Managing client relationships and setting expectations to deliver consistent value
• Evaluating pricing strategies, including fixed fee, subscription, and other pricing models
• Ensuring governance and meeting regulatory standards for data security and compliance
• Adapting to emerging technologies and evolving client demands to future-proof the practice
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Define the scope and benefits of Client Accounting Services for CPA firms
• Identify essential technology tools and strategies for CAS implementation
• Evaluate various pricing models and their application to CAS offerings
• Outline critical considerations for maintaining data security and regulatory compliance in CAS
• Develop a roadmap for building or enhancing a scalable CAS practice

Credits: 2 - Accounting

This session is available to registrants only.

- Taking Another Look at Power BI

Thomas Stephens, Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., P.C.

Thomas Stephens

Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. Upon graduation, Mr. Stephens began working for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm. After earning his designation as a Certified Public Accountant, Mr. Stephens worked for BellSouth Corporation in Atlanta as an Internal Auditor. After two years as an auditor, he was promoted to Staff Manager and then Operations Manager of the Internal Audit Group. In 1991, he transferred to the Comptrollers’ department of BellSouth and served as Manager of the Cost Accounting organization. While working full-time at BellSouth Corporation, Mr. Stephens also attended graduate school, earning a Masters of Science (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in 1992. Mr. Stephens left BellSouth in 1994 and opened his public accounting practice in the metropolitan Atlanta area. In his practice, Mr. Stephens provided accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a wide variety of small and emerging businesses. As part of his practice, he developed a successful consulting practice providing installation and support services of small business accounting software. Additionally, he began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, Mr. Stephens affiliated with K2 Enterprises and in 2007 he joined the firm as a partner. To date, he has lectured nationally on subjects such as internal controls for small businesses, practice management and marketing, computer hardware and software applications, tax strategies and compliance, and financial accounting standards and applications. Over the past twelve years, Mr. Stephens has presented in excess of 850 educational programs to over 22,000 participants nationwide. Presently, Mr. Stephens resides in Woodstock, Georgia where, in addition to his association with K2 Enterprises, he provides consulting services to small businesses and CPA firms.. In addition to an active professional career, Mr. Stephens enjoys an active personal life as well. He and Michelle – his wife of twenty-two years – have two children. His hobbies include snow skiing, fishing, and running. Additionally, Mr. Stephens is a volunteer with the local school system and is an active member of his church. He also maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants and is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.

If you want to improve financial and operational reporting, now is the time to take another look at Power BI! Many recent enhancements make this tool even stronger and easier to use, so now is the time to take another look at Power BI.

Major Topics
• Getting started with Power BI
• Creating effective visualizations in Power BI
• Publishing Power BI reports to dashboards
• Optimizing dashboards for viewing on mobile devices
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• List the basic steps necessary to generate a Power BI report
• Distinguish between Power BI reports and dashboards
• Identify the necessary steps to link data into Power BI
• List the steps necessary to create a Power BI report
• Specify the steps necessary to convert a Power BI report to a dashboard
• Generate user-defined calculations in Power BI

Credits: 2 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Lunch

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

- Better Prompts, Better Results

Randy Johnston, K2 Enterprises

Randy Johnston

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston
Chairman and CEO
K2 Enterprises and Network Management Group, Inc.

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston, MCS has been a top-rated speaker in the technology industry for over 40 years. Inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2011, Randy is listed as a Top 25 Thought Leader in Accounting from 2011-2021. His influence throughout the accounting profession is highlighted once again this year by being a recipient of the 2020 Accounting Today Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting award for the seventeenth consecutive year. Among his many other awards, he holds the honor of being one of nine technology stars in the U.S. by Accounting Technology Magazine. Randy writes a monthly column for The CPA Practice Advisor, features for the Journal of Accountancy, and creates articles for both accounting and technology publications, as well as being the author of numerous books. He has started and owns multiple businesses, including K2 Enterprises in Hammond, Louisiana, and Network Management Group, Inc. in Hutchinson, Kansas. NMGI has supported CPA firms for 30+ years and is the largest managed service provider serving the CPA profession in North America.

His wife and four children enjoy many experiences together, including theatre, music, travel, golf, skiing, snorkeling, and model trains.

AI usage is spreading quickly! Is your organization doing everything necessary to address security and privacy issues? In this session, you will learn how to enhance security and privacy when working with AI.

Major Topics
• Components of effective AI prompts
• The pros and cons of a single large prompt versus multiple small prompts
• Using prompts to format AI-generated output
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• List the four key components of AI prompts
• Identify examples of prompts used for tasks, context, expectations, and output
• Name at least four types of tasks generative AI tools can do when prompted correctly

Credits: 1 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

- Next Level Home Networking

Brian Tankersley, K2 Enterprises

Brian Tankersley

Brian Tankersley is a consultant who advises US firms and companies on accounting technology issues. Mr. Tankersley is a frequent speaker at continuing education courses for K2 Enterprises, and publishes a nationally recognized blog on accounting and technology (www.cpatechblog.com). He has also served as the technology editor for a major accounting industry publication. Mr. Tankersley has over 25 years of professional experience, including accounting, auditing, technology, and education, and has been with K2 Enterprises since 2005, and he is also one of the national instructors for Yaeger CPA Review.

Tankersley has been recognized eight times as one of the “Top 25 Thought Leaders in Public Accounting Technology” by Cygnus Business Media. Brian has made presentations in 48 of the 50 US states and has served as a guest speaker for many professional accounting organizations across Canada.  He has received numerous awards for his writing and speaking from state CPA societies. Brian has presented sessions at most major national accounting technology conferences, including AICPA TECH+/Practitioners Conference, The Sleeter Group’s Solutions Conference, Sage Summit, CCH Connections, and Thomson Reuters Synergy User Conference. 

Brian is a Certified Public Accountant (Tennessee), a Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). He holds bachelor’s degrees in both Accounting and Finance, cum laude, from the University of Tennessee. Tankersley also maintains numerous vendor software certifications, and is a member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs.

Home networks can range from very simple implementations (often with few security features) to more sophisticated deployments designed to minimize downtime and maximize security. In this session, you’ll learn which type of home network is ideal for you and how to implement it.

Major Topics
• Explanation of common network services such as file sharing, VPN’s, media servers, and network isolation using multiple SSIDs
• Hardware options and examples of solutions for every budget
• Tips and tricks for rebuilding your home network to meet your needs today and into the future

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• List at least one prosumer-grade networking hardware brand for enhancing home office performance and security
• Identify how isolating your work, personal, and guest networks can enhance information security
• Define at least three advanced networking functionalities, including VPNs, remote file access, media servers, VLANs, and SFP+
• List at least to high-speed networking technologies that can help to future-proof home networks

Credits: 1 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

- What's New With QuickBooks

Thomas Stephens, Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., P.C.

Thomas Stephens

Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. Upon graduation, Mr. Stephens began working for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm. After earning his designation as a Certified Public Accountant, Mr. Stephens worked for BellSouth Corporation in Atlanta as an Internal Auditor. After two years as an auditor, he was promoted to Staff Manager and then Operations Manager of the Internal Audit Group. In 1991, he transferred to the Comptrollers’ department of BellSouth and served as Manager of the Cost Accounting organization. While working full-time at BellSouth Corporation, Mr. Stephens also attended graduate school, earning a Masters of Science (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in 1992. Mr. Stephens left BellSouth in 1994 and opened his public accounting practice in the metropolitan Atlanta area. In his practice, Mr. Stephens provided accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a wide variety of small and emerging businesses. As part of his practice, he developed a successful consulting practice providing installation and support services of small business accounting software. Additionally, he began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, Mr. Stephens affiliated with K2 Enterprises and in 2007 he joined the firm as a partner. To date, he has lectured nationally on subjects such as internal controls for small businesses, practice management and marketing, computer hardware and software applications, tax strategies and compliance, and financial accounting standards and applications. Over the past twelve years, Mr. Stephens has presented in excess of 850 educational programs to over 22,000 participants nationwide. Presently, Mr. Stephens resides in Woodstock, Georgia where, in addition to his association with K2 Enterprises, he provides consulting services to small businesses and CPA firms.. In addition to an active professional career, Mr. Stephens enjoys an active personal life as well. He and Michelle – his wife of twenty-two years – have two children. His hobbies include snow skiing, fishing, and running. Additionally, Mr. Stephens is a volunteer with the local school system and is an active member of his church. He also maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants and is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.

The entire QuickBooks product family continues to evolve at a very rapid rate. Participate in this session to learn about the major changes affecting QuickBooks Desktop, Online, and Enterprise Solutions users.

Major Topics
• Licensing issues
• Pricing updates
• New and improved features
• Transitioning from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• List examples of key new features in QuickBooks Desktop, Online, and Enterprise Solutions
• Identify changes in the licensing agreements across the QuickBooks platform
• Cite examples of similarities and differences in features and functions across the QuickBooks platform

Credits: 1 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Break

This session is available to registrants only.

Breakout Session

- After QuickBooks, What's Next?

Brian Tankersley, K2 Enterprises

Brian Tankersley

Brian Tankersley is a consultant who advises US firms and companies on accounting technology issues. Mr. Tankersley is a frequent speaker at continuing education courses for K2 Enterprises, and publishes a nationally recognized blog on accounting and technology (www.cpatechblog.com). He has also served as the technology editor for a major accounting industry publication. Mr. Tankersley has over 25 years of professional experience, including accounting, auditing, technology, and education, and has been with K2 Enterprises since 2005, and he is also one of the national instructors for Yaeger CPA Review.

Tankersley has been recognized eight times as one of the “Top 25 Thought Leaders in Public Accounting Technology” by Cygnus Business Media. Brian has made presentations in 48 of the 50 US states and has served as a guest speaker for many professional accounting organizations across Canada.  He has received numerous awards for his writing and speaking from state CPA societies. Brian has presented sessions at most major national accounting technology conferences, including AICPA TECH+/Practitioners Conference, The Sleeter Group’s Solutions Conference, Sage Summit, CCH Connections, and Thomson Reuters Synergy User Conference. 

Brian is a Certified Public Accountant (Tennessee), a Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). He holds bachelor’s degrees in both Accounting and Finance, cum laude, from the University of Tennessee. Tankersley also maintains numerous vendor software certifications, and is a member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs.

The QuickBooks ecosystem is changing. Learn about important shifts in small business accounting software and alternatives to QuickBooks.

Major Topics
• Transitioning from QuickBooks Pro and Premier – challenges and opportunities
• Overview and comparison of leading accounting software solutions
• Implementation strategies and best practices for modern accounting platforms
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Identify key differences between QuickBooks Pro and Premier and their potential replacements
• Evaluate and compare the features, integrations, and add-on solutions offered by platforms such as Xero, Zoho Books, and FreshBooks
• Identify key steps in the transition process from legacy QuickBooks systems to newer, Cloud-based accounting tools
• Create a roadmap for advising clients on selecting and implementing the most suitable accounting platform for their needs 

Credits: 1 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

- Security and Privacy Issues

Randy Johnston, K2 Enterprises

Randy Johnston

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston
Chairman and CEO
K2 Enterprises and Network Management Group, Inc.

Randolph P. (Randy) Johnston, MCS has been a top-rated speaker in the technology industry for over 40 years. Inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2011, Randy is listed as a Top 25 Thought Leader in Accounting from 2011-2021. His influence throughout the accounting profession is highlighted once again this year by being a recipient of the 2020 Accounting Today Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting award for the seventeenth consecutive year. Among his many other awards, he holds the honor of being one of nine technology stars in the U.S. by Accounting Technology Magazine. Randy writes a monthly column for The CPA Practice Advisor, features for the Journal of Accountancy, and creates articles for both accounting and technology publications, as well as being the author of numerous books. He has started and owns multiple businesses, including K2 Enterprises in Hammond, Louisiana, and Network Management Group, Inc. in Hutchinson, Kansas. NMGI has supported CPA firms for 30+ years and is the largest managed service provider serving the CPA profession in North America.

His wife and four children enjoy many experiences together, including theatre, music, travel, golf, skiing, snorkeling, and model trains.

AI usage is spreading quickly! Is your organization doing everything necessary to address security and privacy issues? In this session, you will learn how to enhance security and privacy when working with AI.

Major Topics
• Major provisions of security and privacy policies
• Key risks associated with using commercial AI tools
• Steps to take to mitigate AI security and privacy risks 
Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Differentiate between AI security and privacy risks 
• List examples of key security and privacy risks associated with many of today’s AI platforms
• Identify best practices for mitigating the security and privacy risks associated with AI

Credits: 1 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

- Ten PDF Tips You Need to Know

Thomas Stephens, Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., P.C.

Thomas Stephens

Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (Major in Accounting) from Auburn University in 1985. Upon graduation, Mr. Stephens began working for an Atlanta-based public accounting firm. After earning his designation as a Certified Public Accountant, Mr. Stephens worked for BellSouth Corporation in Atlanta as an Internal Auditor. After two years as an auditor, he was promoted to Staff Manager and then Operations Manager of the Internal Audit Group. In 1991, he transferred to the Comptrollers’ department of BellSouth and served as Manager of the Cost Accounting organization. While working full-time at BellSouth Corporation, Mr. Stephens also attended graduate school, earning a Masters of Science (Major in Finance) from Georgia State University in 1992. Mr. Stephens left BellSouth in 1994 and opened his public accounting practice in the metropolitan Atlanta area. In his practice, Mr. Stephens provided accounting, tax, and consulting services to individuals and a wide variety of small and emerging businesses. As part of his practice, he developed a successful consulting practice providing installation and support services of small business accounting software. Additionally, he began authoring and presenting continuing professional education courses to accounting and finance professionals. In 2003, Mr. Stephens affiliated with K2 Enterprises and in 2007 he joined the firm as a partner. To date, he has lectured nationally on subjects such as internal controls for small businesses, practice management and marketing, computer hardware and software applications, tax strategies and compliance, and financial accounting standards and applications. Over the past twelve years, Mr. Stephens has presented in excess of 850 educational programs to over 22,000 participants nationwide. Presently, Mr. Stephens resides in Woodstock, Georgia where, in addition to his association with K2 Enterprises, he provides consulting services to small businesses and CPA firms.. In addition to an active professional career, Mr. Stephens enjoys an active personal life as well. He and Michelle – his wife of twenty-two years – have two children. His hobbies include snow skiing, fishing, and running. Additionally, Mr. Stephens is a volunteer with the local school system and is an active member of his church. He also maintains professional memberships with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants and is a past member of the Institute of Internal Auditors.

PDF documents are a staple of the business community, yet most users don’t know how to take advantage of this technology. Participate in this session to learn ten valuable tips to help you get more from your PDFs.

Major Topics
• Converting documents to the PDF format
• Editing PDF documents
• Securing PDF documents
• Extracting data from PDFs

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• Identifying multiple options for generating PDFs
• Differentiating between Adobe software options
• Listing the steps necessary to convert PDF documents to fillable forms
• Specifying options for securing PDFs
• Identifying options for collaborating on PDFs

Credits: 1 - Computer Software & Applications - Non-technical

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Break

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- Ripped from the Headlines: Lessons from Interesting Tech Crimes

Brian Tankersley, K2 Enterprises

Brian Tankersley

Brian Tankersley is a consultant who advises US firms and companies on accounting technology issues. Mr. Tankersley is a frequent speaker at continuing education courses for K2 Enterprises, and publishes a nationally recognized blog on accounting and technology (www.cpatechblog.com). He has also served as the technology editor for a major accounting industry publication. Mr. Tankersley has over 25 years of professional experience, including accounting, auditing, technology, and education, and has been with K2 Enterprises since 2005, and he is also one of the national instructors for Yaeger CPA Review.

Tankersley has been recognized eight times as one of the “Top 25 Thought Leaders in Public Accounting Technology” by Cygnus Business Media. Brian has made presentations in 48 of the 50 US states and has served as a guest speaker for many professional accounting organizations across Canada.  He has received numerous awards for his writing and speaking from state CPA societies. Brian has presented sessions at most major national accounting technology conferences, including AICPA TECH+/Practitioners Conference, The Sleeter Group’s Solutions Conference, Sage Summit, CCH Connections, and Thomson Reuters Synergy User Conference. 

Brian is a Certified Public Accountant (Tennessee), a Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). He holds bachelor’s degrees in both Accounting and Finance, cum laude, from the University of Tennessee. Tankersley also maintains numerous vendor software certifications, and is a member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs.

Technology changes facilitate new forms of cybercrimes and fraud. In this session, you will learn how the crooks used technology to reap their ill-gotten rewards.

Major Topics
• Common security weaknesses that occur with hardware and software at home and in the office
• Malware, ransomware, data breach, and incident response tips
• Internal control failures which result in the theft of assets or unauthorized manipulation of data

Learning Objectives
Upon completing this course, you should be able to:
• List at least three major security incidents reported in the headlines in the last year, and explain at least one major internal control design or operation flaw that allowed the hack to occur
• Select the correct definitions for common security terms such as attack surface, vulnerability, exploit, social engineering, phishing, malware, heuristics, biometrics, and multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• List at least three best practices learned by reviewing the control failures cited in the case studies

Credits: 2 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

Non-Member Price $565.00

Member Price $485.00