Information Technology Opportunities for CPAs Abound.

The CPA who consults in information technology for firms, clients and employers must work to retain his or her value as the trusted adviser and knowledgeable expert. However, there often is a lack of current resources that focus directly on how accounting and technology converge and integrate for the benefit of the end user.

While there are many places to look for information to build a knowledge base, TopTech.aicpa.org is ideal because it was built by CPAs who participate each year in the AICPA Top Ten Technologies project. The new Web site has informative articles on all 35 top technologies (including the Top Ten Technology Issues in the sidebar), along with additional information through new "Learn More" topics.

Learn More by Reading includes books listed by author and title, with ISBN numbers for easy location.

Learn More by Looking & Listening offers a step-by-step way to learn about the topics. It features CPE, Web casts, audio programs, online courses and video courses, many of which are offered by the AICPA, state CPA societies and third-party vendors.

Learn More Online highlights current articles from prominent and little-known sites written about each specific Top Ten Technology topic.

Learn More from Conferences or Show Stoppers is a direct route to meeting vendors and learning from experts in the field, and a great way to remain at the edge of technology. This area lists upcoming show/conference dates and links to more information.

Learn More from Cases that Came Before enables users to learn by example through a range of other pertinent experiences presented as case studies, newsletters and other communications. All firms have a unique opportunity to share and learn from each other by submitting technology solution success stories. Look for the "Case Studies" tab on the TopTech.aicpa.org Web site.

Learn More by Asking is designed to let members e-mail questions on specific topics. In the long-term, there will be bulletin boards and forums.

Members interested in obtaining the Certified Information Technology Professional credential can use TopTech.aicpa.org to link to more information on the new accreditation. Users also will find links to the two AICPA technology-oriented member groups: the Information Technology Alliance Section and the Information Technology Section. Registering at the site will provide access to periodic updates and a venue for input on technology topics that will affect the profession in the future.

Top Ten Technology Issues for 2001

1. Information Security and Controls

2. E-Business

3. Electronically Based Business and Financial Reporting

4. Privacy

5. Training and Technology Competency

6. Disaster Recovery

7. Qualified IT Personnel

8. Quality of Service

9. Electronic Audit Trail

10. Application Service Providers