Technology Trends and Hot Topics Impacting the Accounting Profession

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Instructor

Marc
Hamilton

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Marc Hamilton

Bio

Marc Hamilton is a strategy-oriented finance executive with proven successes in change management.  Mr. Hamilton has over 30 years of extensive practical experiences with data analytics, process design and technology implementation. His roles have provided broad exposure to functional, operational and management challenges facing organizations in the era of systems intelligence.

As a technologist CPA, Mr. Hamilton frequently speaks from his experiences on big data, data science, artificial intelligence and the developing Blockchain infrastructure.  He also frequently presents AICPA cybersecurity content.

Mr. Hamilton holds a Masters in Tax Accounting from the University of Alabama and practiced with both Deloitte & KPMG before moving into a business and industry roles including VP of Taxation, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer.

Never have the benefits, and related risks, of utilizing new technology been greater for those in the accounting profession. From Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotic Process Automation(RPA), and Audit Data Analytics (ADA) to cloud-based software solutions, our clients' technology landscape is rapidly changing. Accordingly, we, as accounting professionals, need to be on the forefront of these changes, including having a firm understanding of the risks associated with the use of these tools. In this course, we'll review these trends, highlight new and emerging products, and focus on cyber-security risks and best practices that will allow accounting professionals to help our clients navigate these exciting but challenging times. Plus, we'll review the newly issued guidance on audit evidence found in SAS 142, which guides our use of technology on our professional engagements.

Learning Objectives

Identify the business drivers of companies today and the need for data-driven decision making
Identify other current trends in information technology applications for clients and auditors
Discuss SAS 142 and how it applies to the new audit methodologies using technology
Explain how auditors are integrating audit data analytics into the audit process

Major Topics

Data-driven decision making processes
Top technology trends and related risks, including cloud computing, AI, RPA, and blockchain applications
Common IT security risks and controls
Requirements of SAS 142
Use of analytical procedures on professional engagements

CPE Credits Available

4 CPE

2: Accounting & Auditing
2: Other

Things to Know About This Course

Course Level

Basic

Intended Audience

CPAs in public practice with accounting, financial reporting or attest responsibilities

Provider

SURGENT