Website of the Month: Cloud Computing Roundup

Cloud computing is an attractive technology for many CPAs because it allows access to software applications and client data without the need for hardware ownership or maintenance. Users can benefit from available technology without spending the time needed to become experts or regularly upgrading software and hardware. Some cloud applications do not require users to operate any particular software other than a web browser, and offer accessibility on a variety of devices, from desktop computers to smartphones.

The following is a roundup of four websites that offer resources for CPAs considering a move to cloud computing, as well as for those who have already migrated to the technology.

Xcentric

Xcentric is a consulting company-recognized by Inside Public Accounting, CPA Practice Advisor, and Accounting Today- that provides cloud computing and technology consulting services to CPAs. Its website (http://www.xcentric.com) provides free access to the firm's white papers, case studies, checklists, videos, and blog. Many resources provide filtering options and links to related materials. The white papers and case studies also include abstracts and useful table of contents links.

Several white papers are currently available, such as "10 Reasons Firms Move to the Cloud." This white paper discusses the reasons why CPA firms transition to the cloud, such as the need to replace technology that has reached the end of its useful life; the desire to create a backup plan for disaster recovery; a concern over the lack of technology personnel; and changes in firm structure, such as mergers and splits. "Security Concerns Every CPA Firm Should Consider" describes 12 areas of technology that can create security risks. The more obvious risks result from not maintaining physical security of computer servers, not requiring regular password changes, and not securing wireless access. Less obvious threats come from publishing employees' extensive contact information on a firm's website and allowing personal devices to access firm data.

Another white paper, "The Intro to IT Governance," explains the concepts surrounding this issue and recommends action items. Creating practical IT governance policies and procedures begins with designating ultimate responsibility to a firm executive or owner and creating an IT governance committee. 'Top 10 Questions for Your IT Manager" covers serious concerns that CPAs should have about their firm's technology. One of the questions addresses missing security updates on computers and servers; another asks how long it would take to recover from a total data loss.

The Xcentric website also presents several checklists, such as one on IT governance activities, that cover strategic alignment, value delivery, risk management, resource management, and performance measurement. "Considering the Cloud? Good Questions to Ask" is another checklist that lists specific issues to address before moving to cloud computing, such as the costs of conversion and operation in comparison to firm-owned hardware and software, any additional time required from partners and staff, and whether the firm's culture can adapt to the cloud.

Xcentric periodically offers live webinars with available continuing professional education (CPE) credit, and later archives the videos for noncredit viewing. One video, "An Introduction to IT Governance," emphasizes that managing IT risks is the responsibility of the firm owners, as well as IT staff. The webcast provides an overview of IT governance, addresses the aforementioned checklist's five IT governance domains, and discusses operational issues.

An interesting video from October 2013 covers tax practice technology concerns, such as operating systems (Mac versus PC), staff use of personal devices, and recommendations for computer equipment and configurations. The webcast also addresses best practices in document workflow and scanning, file-transfer tools, and specific tax applications. It concludes with information on some emerging technologies.

Cloud Accounting Institute

The Cloud Accounting Institute (CAT) disseminates information on software as a service (SaaS) and cloud computing for accounting and finance professionals. Its website (http://www.cloudaccountinginstitute.org) offers resources that include white papers, case studies, webinars, and a blog.

CAI publishes an annual benchmark study, "Cloud Solutions Best Practices," and the 2012 and 2013 reports are available for free download on the website. The 2013 study-where almost half of the respondents were controllers or CFOs- covered a range of small to large organizations. The results indicated that 75% of participants adopted cloud accounting applications, compared to 52% in 2012. The highest use of cloud technology was found among accounting and financial management tools.

One of the most useful features is the site's "blog roll," an extensive list of blogs dedicated to accounting and cloud computing. Some of the more interesting blogs include "Attestation Update-A&A for CPAs," "Golden Practices," "Tax Analysts," and "View from the Cloud."

Cloud Accounting Today

Cloud Accounting Today (http://www. cloudaccountingtoday.com) provides educational information, news, and industry trends in cloud accounting. Articles are organized by date and topic: cloud computing, SaaS, accounting software, and cloud accounting software.

"What Is Cloud Computing and How it Can Benefit Finance Professionals" discusses advantages and varied uses of cloud computing systems. Some advantages include automatic updates and backups, access from any location or device, and secure storage. Accounting users can create tailored dashboards to provide the most up-to-date information on profits, payables and payroll, inventory, and other financial management concerns.

"Switching to Cloud Accounting Software" provides a brief background on cloud computing, and addresses five major points to consider before making the switch. The suggestions include researching the variety of products available; analyzing the business's needs and determining whether particular applications can provide solutions; and, based on this information, making a list of the most efficient cloud-based accounting systems.

CloudTweaks

CloudTweaks (http://www.cloudtweaks. com) offers a large collection of fice white papers, reports, podcasts, and other tools prepared by a variety of IT providers. It also provides access to some unique resources, such as infographics, top 10 lists, and humor.

Infographics are downloadable visual data presented in a colorful pictorial format. A recently featured infographie on cybercrime, "Are You a Hacker's Target?," contains some alarming statistics, tactics for hacking online accounts, a list of the most targeted websites for hackers, and recommendations for increasing online security. An infographie covering IBM's 2013 Cyber Security Intelligence Index indicates that the average large company laces 1,400 cyberattacks each week. The most attacked industries are manufacturing, finance and insurance, and information and communication, and the most common types of attacks are malicious code and sustained scans.

A recent list, "Top 10 Reasons for Making the Switch to Cloud Accounting Software," targets small and start-up businesses. User-friendly reasons include ease of use and access, and the ability to work from any location with Internet access.

Finally, for readers in search of a little technology humor, CloudTweaks also features a collection of humorous cloud computing cartoons, which can be reused with permission. ?

<p>Susan B. Anders, PhD, CPA, is a professor of accounting at St. Bonaventure University, St. Bonaventure, N.Y.