Today's Technology for Tomorrow's Firm.
Issue link: https://cpapracticeadvisor.epubxp.com/i/80319
What are some ways your firm/business has gone "paperless" and/or "green" in the last two years? SS&G; has been a paperless firm since 2005. Within the past two years, we have implemented a "green" initiative which has been very successful – recycling paper, plastic, etc., as well as using energy effi- cient lighting throughout our offices. Thomas Fantin CPA.CITP — 35 Manager, SS&G;, Inc. Akron, Ohio How is cloud computing changing the ac- counting profession, and how concerned are you with the security issues related to cloud computing? Cloud computing is significantly chang- ing the accounting profession by helping accountants step outside of their offices and become more mobile in assisting clients. Security issues will always be pres- ent whenever you are dealing with private financial information and other sensitive data, which is why being diligent and ad- dressing the latest vulnerability threats is extremely important. How mobile are you regarding your work? How have mobile devices and apps impacted your productivity and work-life balance? LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tjfantin Education: Bachelor of Science in Accounting, The University of Akron Professional Associations/Memberships: AICPA, OSCPA I have the ability to be 100 percent mo- bile. Through the use of smartphones, Mifi connectivity, VPN's, and various apps; I am able to stay connected to my office from anywhere. These devices, overall, have had a positive im- pact on productivity and work-life balance; however, when in areas where mobile connections are not avail- able, that productivity may be drastically reduced. It is important to be cognizant of where you may be travelling and the connections that will be available. Hobbies: Playing guitar, golfing, and spending time with my family Have you found business success via so- cial media, either via recognizable ROI, new customers, marketing or network- ing? My firm uses social media to keep clients informed of new laws, regulations, upcom- ing events, etc. Additionally, it is used as a recruiting tool to attract new employees. What tips on social media do you think are essential, but perhaps missed by professionals? Be careful of what you post and what others are posting about you. Too many times I have observed pictures or posts of co-workers that do not present them in a professional manner. It's great to have a life outside of work, but on certain occa- sions that is where it should remain. What ONE piece of technology could you absolutely not live without? The Internet. It has revolutionized the way we obtain information and communicate with others. NOT including your current employer, what company do you most admire and why? I would have to say Google. Over the years they have built one of the best known brands in the world. Having a great business model, being employ- ee oriented, empow- ering creativity, and having the ability to change are all resound- ing reasons why Google has been successful. The adaptation from a simple search engine to a Company that launched such well- known products as Gmail, YouTube, and Google Docs, it's no wonder Google is more than a successful company, but also a verb in our everyday vocabulary. What sports team/championship event do you absolutely refuse to miss? The University of Michigan (football) and University of Akron (soccer, football, and basketball). What cell phone do you carry/use? I use a Motorola Droid X. Do you have a tablet? No. What is your favorite professional mo- bile app, and why? Key Ring – This handy app lets you scan and store your existing loyalty cards, en- roll in new loyalty programs, and access exclusive coupons and discounts. How many monitors do you have on your desk? Two. 49 | 2012 CPA Practice Advisor 40 Under 40 BACK TO PAGE 3