Julia Chirkova
This webinar will be held on Friday, October 9 at 1:00pm ET. This comprehensive session, sponsored by Thomson Reuters and lasting one hour, aims to equip tax professionals with critical knowledge regarding the security features essential for modern tax automation and client collaboration tools. The program is designed for a basic understanding level, requiring no prerequisites and no advance preparation, and falls under the field of Business Management and Organization. It offers 1 recommended CPE credit per 50-minute session and will be delivered via a group internet-based format.
Understanding the Evolving Landscape of Tax Firm Security
In an era where digital transformation is paramount, tax firms are increasingly reliant on technology to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and, most importantly, safeguard sensitive client data. The rapid escalation of cyber threats and the growing volume of digital information exchanged between firms and their clients necessitate a robust understanding of security protocols within tax automation and client collaboration platforms. This webinar directly addresses these critical concerns, offering practical insights into what constitutes effective security in this domain.
The core of the session will explore the multifaceted security capabilities that tax professionals should prioritize when evaluating and implementing these technological solutions. This includes a deep dive into secure document exchange mechanisms, ensuring that sensitive financial documents are transmitted and stored with the utmost protection against unauthorized access. Encrypted communications will be highlighted as a fundamental layer of security, preventing any interception or tampering of client communications. Furthermore, the webinar will delve into the importance of controlled access, emphasizing granular permission settings that ensure only authorized personnel can view or modify client information. Drop-off links, when implemented securely, offer a convenient yet protected method for clients to upload documents, and centralized firm administration provides a single point of control for managing user access and security policies across the entire organization.
The overarching goal is to empower firms to strengthen their data protection strategies, simplify secure workflows, particularly during the demanding “busy season” periods, and cultivate a client experience that instills unwavering confidence. Crucially, this will be achieved without introducing unnecessary login barriers that can frustrate both clients and staff, thereby striking a delicate balance between robust security and user-friendliness.
The Sponsor: Thomson Reuters and its Commitment to Tax Technology
Thomson Reuters, a global leader in providing business information services, plays a significant role in shaping the landscape of tax and accounting technology. Their sponsorship of this webinar underscores their dedication to educating the professional community on best practices and innovative solutions. The Thomson Reuters Tax Automation Suite exemplifies their commitment. This suite is designed as a seamlessly integrated and automated end-to-end tax workflow experience, powered by industry-leading 1040 tax preparation solutions: UltraTax CS for compliance, SurePrep 1040SCAN for data extraction, and SafeSend for secure gather and return delivery.
This integrated approach streamlines the entire client tax process, from initial data gathering to final return delivery. By consolidating these functions into a unified system, firms can effectively eliminate inefficient workflows and achieve substantial time savings, potentially reducing the effort required per return by up to two hours. The suite offers real-time visibility across all returns, enabling firms to accelerate their work, transforming processing times from days to hours, and even hours to minutes. This efficiency is bolstered by the trusted support and extensive tax expertise that Thomson Reuters provides. The inclusion of SurePrep 1040SCAN, for instance, leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to accurately extract data from client documents, a significant advancement in reducing manual data entry and its associated risks of errors and security vulnerabilities. SafeSend further enhances security and client experience through its encrypted portal for document exchange and e-signature capabilities.
The Presenter: Eric Empson’s Expertise in Solutions Consulting
The webinar will feature insights from Eric Empson, a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in Software as a Service (SaaS) and Human Capital Management (HCM) solutions. Eric brings a robust background in solutions consulting, configuration management, and the delivery of tailored demonstrations. His role involves translating complex technical capabilities into tangible business benefits for clients.
At MP, Eric’s contributions are focused on delivering impactful and custom solutions that precisely align with client objectives while adeptly addressing intricate workforce management needs. His expertise lies in bridging the gap between deep technical knowledge and strategic sales approaches to achieve client-focused outcomes. By fostering collaboration among internal teams and clients, Eric implements strategies that optimize operational processes and empowers organizations to achieve their strategic workforce goals. His experience in SaaS environments provides him with a unique perspective on the security considerations inherent in cloud-based solutions, making him an ideal presenter for a session focused on tax automation security.
The Moderator: Isaac M. O’Bannon’s Industry Acumen
Moderating the discussion will be Isaac M. O’Bannon, the managing editor and digital content manager for CPA Practice Advisor. With two decades of experience covering professional accounting, taxation, business productivity, and consumer technologies, O’Bannon is a recognized authority in the field. His background as a consultant for firms in San Francisco, Denver, and Tulsa, serving a diverse clientele including technology leaders like Logitech, Polycom, Hilti, and Microsoft, as well as prestigious institutions like the Stanford Research Institute and the University of Oklahoma’s College of Engineering, provides him with a broad understanding of technology adoption and its implications across various professional sectors. As a U.S. Navy veteran, O’Bannon also brings a disciplined and strategic approach to his editorial work.
CPA Practice Advisor‘s commitment to providing unbiased, independent information on technologies available to practicing public accountants and tax professionals is a cornerstone of its mission. This free online webinar series is a direct extension of that commitment, aiming to deliver valuable insights and educational content to the accounting community without commercial bias. The organization’s registration with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education further solidifies its dedication to professional development and adherence to educational standards.
Key Learning Objectives for Attendees
Participants in this webinar can expect to achieve several key learning objectives, enhancing their understanding and decision-making capabilities:
- Identify Critical Security Features: Learn to discern the essential security capabilities that are non-negotiable in tax automation and client collaboration tools. This includes understanding the nuances of encryption protocols, data loss prevention measures, and intrusion detection systems.
- Strengthen Data Protection: Gain actionable strategies for fortifying data protection within their firms, moving beyond basic password protection to more sophisticated security frameworks.
- Simplify Secure Workflows: Discover how to integrate secure technologies into daily operations, particularly during peak tax seasons, ensuring efficiency is not compromised by security protocols.
- Enhance Client Confidence: Understand how advanced security features can be communicated to clients to build trust and loyalty, positioning the firm as a secure and reliable partner.
- Balance Security and Usability: Learn to implement security measures that are effective without creating undue friction for clients or staff, optimizing the user experience.
Broader Implications for the Tax Profession
The focus on security in tax automation has profound implications for the future of the accounting profession. As regulatory scrutiny intensifies and client expectations for data privacy rise, firms that proactively adopt and effectively manage secure technologies will gain a significant competitive advantage. The shift towards digital-first client interactions, accelerated by recent global events, means that the security of these digital channels is no longer a secondary concern but a primary driver of client retention and business growth.
Firms that embrace solutions like those offered by Thomson Reuters, which integrate data extraction, compliance, and secure delivery, are better positioned to navigate the complexities of modern tax preparation. The ability to automate repetitive tasks, reduce manual errors, and ensure the secure handling of sensitive information frees up valuable resources that can be redirected towards higher-value advisory services. This evolution is crucial for firms looking to transition from compliance-centric models to more consultative roles, offering clients strategic financial guidance.
Moreover, the discussion around security extends beyond just technological safeguards. It encompasses the establishment of clear internal policies, comprehensive employee training on cybersecurity best practices, and regular audits of security protocols. The webinar’s emphasis on controlled access and centralized administration highlights the importance of a holistic approach to security management, where human factors and technological solutions work in tandem.
The cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving, with new threats emerging regularly. Therefore, continuous learning and adaptation are essential. Webinars like this one, offered by reputable organizations and industry leaders, provide an invaluable platform for tax professionals to stay informed about the latest trends, best practices, and technological advancements in cybersecurity. The free registration and accessible format democratize access to this critical knowledge, ensuring that firms of all sizes can benefit from the insights shared.
Registration and Further Information
This free online webinar is an essential resource for any tax professional looking to enhance their firm’s security posture and client engagement. Registration is straightforward and can be completed online via the provided link: https://event.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1775997&tp_key=7502bbf1e4&sti=website. For those who are already registered with CPA Practice Advisor, signing in will grant access to this and a wealth of other resources, including whitepapers and reports. New users are encouraged to register to gain access to newsletters, continuing education opportunities, podcasts, and more.
For any inquiries regarding administrative policies or complaint resolution, individuals are directed to contact Isaac O’Bannon at [email protected]. The National Registry of CPE Sponsors, through which CPA Practice Advisor is registered, offers a platform for addressing complaints, ensuring accountability and quality in continuing professional education.
The event’s duration is set for one hour, offering a concentrated yet comprehensive overview of the critical aspects of tax automation security. The program level is basic, making it accessible to all professionals regardless of their current technical expertise, and no prior knowledge or preparation is required. This accessibility, combined with the valuable content, positions the webinar as a must-attend event for anyone involved in tax preparation and client management.
Ultimately, the successful integration of secure tax automation tools is not merely about adopting new software; it is about fostering a culture of security within the firm, prioritizing client trust, and adapting to the dynamic digital environment. This webinar serves as a vital step in that ongoing journey for tax professionals.
