Brought back in 2024 for the first time in 5 years, the first ½ of this course is devoted to security. Beginning with an eye-opening presentation of the security risks present in computer operating systems, browsers and search engines, we illustrate the risks and then present solutions. The discussion is team taught by a 45+ year practicing CPA as well as Taxspeaker’s own security expert and IT Director Ryan Jennings. Wait, we’re not done with security though as we then discuss the risks and use of artificial intelligence in a tax office and then enter the security world of the IRS, discussing WISP’s, and providing a WISP plan template as well as remote work policies, computer & internet use policies and other useful policies. The final portion of security then address physical risks of theft, disaster and day to day operations.

The remainder of the day is spent on the latest technology tools and applications that profitable firms need to use to address labor shortages, profit margins and quality. In this section we discuss (quickly) desktop/laptop/tablet/server needs as well as scanners, leading to a deeper discussion and (where time permits) demonstration of OCR form recognition, OCR direct software transfer, customer relationship manager software, electronic filing software, cloud hosted computing in SaaS, and remote work situations. Throughout the class the speakers will address practical questions and answers from the point of view of non-national firms.

**Please note this 8 hour course is approved by IRS, but only the 4 Tax hours for Security will be approved for IRS credit. Technology is not an IRS approved field of study.**