Watson Learns to Debate
IBM’s Project Debater computer developed communication skills that are now being included in Watson’s Business Services.
Upskilling Management Accountants
Employers must bridge the digital skills gap to keep up with the increasingly fast pace of technological change in business.
Excel: Year-over-Year Changes in a Pivot Table
There’s a more robust and flexible method for Excel users to easily create a year-over-year statistic in a pivot table.
Access: Finding Records
Find Access records by using the name in the contact table or searching in another table for an address or phone number.
Tools of the Trade: April 2020
A look at Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra, Lenovo Foldable ThinkPad laptop, Acer ConceptD 7 laptop, and Moleskine Smart Writing Set.
Breaking the Excel Routine
Some finance professionals resist quitting Excel, but alternatives could boost productivity and data analytics capability.
Excel: Combining All Worksheets in a Workbook
Excel lets users easily combine several worksheets into a single workbook, but the steps of the process are hard to discover.
Technology in the New Decade
With the pace of technological change picking up, companies need to adapt processes rapidly and train staff well to keep up.
Access: Organizing Project Files
Access developers share database development tips, including how to set up a logical system for organizing project files.
Dual Screens and Folding Phones
Microsoft and Samsung are experimenting with new mobile screens using bendable glass, combining dual displays in one device.
Tools of the Trade: March 2020
A look at the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, foldable Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, Dell XPS 13 2-in-1, and Yamaha Desktop Audio system.
The Impact of Big Data on Finance
The emphasis on implementing Big Data effectively within an organization is an opportunity for finance professionals.
Machine Learning to Boom in 2020
Algorithmia’s 2020 State of Enterprise Machine Learning report profiles trends for machine learning this year.
Excel: A Pivot Table with Data from Different Worksheets
Excel lets Windows users create a pivot table with data from multiple worksheets if they have one field in common.
Tools of the Trade: February 2020
A look at the recently released Surface Pro 7, Motorola One Hyper, Dyson Cryptomic Air Purifier, and Microsoft Seeing AI app.
Procurement of Software and Smartphone Apps
It’s critical for organizations to put in protocols for buying the software and applications that their employees need.
Access: Files
It’s important to know that Access files don’t behave the same way as other Microsoft Office files and plan accordingly.
Govern Your Bots!
Robotic process automation can integrate with AI, machine learning, and data science, but RPA must be governed properly.
Excel: Sending Feedback to the Excel Team
There are two channels for reaching the Excel team; there are ways to improve your chances of making a change to the program.
Tools of the Trade: January 2020
A look at the recently released Surface Pro 7, Motorola One Hyper, Dyson Cryptomic Air Purifier, and Microsoft Seeing AI app.
Saving the World Wide Web
The web’s inventor, Tim Berners-Lee, offers a global call to action to save the web from manipulation and privacy violations.
Creating Cybersecurity Awareness
Management accountants must ensure that the IT team is protecting the organization’s data to avoid costly breaches.
Access: Making a Calendar
Use the free downloadable CalendarMaker tool to create printable calendars in Access that help you plan and record your time.
Books: Strategic Career Planning
Use core business principles to create a strategy to evaluate, navigate, and reinvent your career path.
Get Smart about Cybersecurity Attacks
Management accountants must ensure that their company’s IT team is on top of cybersecurity prevention and response planning.
Access: Fractions and Greek Characters
When a need arises that can’t be handled by Access’s built-in functions, you can build user-defined functions.
Creating Ethical Chatbots
As commercial chatbots get smarter and more diverse, the need for responsible design will become more critical.
Excel: Ask Excel a Question about Your Data
An upcoming Excel feature code-named “Natural Language Query” relies on AI to answer questions about data in your workbook.
Tools of the Trade: December 2019
A look at the recently released Panasonic Toughbook 55, Google Pixel 4, Amazon Echo Buds, and the Mophie Juice Pack Access.
Books: Put Cybersecurity first
Think Security First! offers practical advice for professionals concerned with cybersecurity in an age of rising cybercrime.
IAESB Issues New Education Standards
The IAESB revised International Education Standards to boost aspiring and professional accountants’ competencies and skills.
Accounting for Cryptoassets
Cryptocurrencies are a new form of assets that raises unusual internal control and financial reporting challenges.
Access: Using a Subreport Multiple Times
When linking subreports to display other fields to enhance a main report, each subreport can be used more than once.
Conversational Digital Assistants
Digital assistants are smarter than ever due to AI and improvements in natural language processing.
Tools of the Trade: November 2019
A look at the recently released Microsoft Surface Pro 7, Surface Laptop 3, LG G8X ThinQ smartphone, Langogo Pocket AI Translator.
Excel: Collaboration in an Excel Workbook
The new workbook-sharing experience for Office 365 will solve common problems when multiple Excel users collaborate.
What Is a Data Science Model?
To discover what data science can do for finance professionals, start by learning or reviewing modeling basics.
Digital Transformation Improves Efficiency
Organizations can cut costs by embracing digital transformation and automation, thus boosting their efficiency levels.
Cyber Risk: Time to Elevate the Agenda
CFOs must spearhead cyber risk management to combat potential security breaches and fraud in an era of rising cybercrime.
These Are The Bots You’re Looking For
RPA has potential benefits for the finance department, including less tedium and wasted time, as well as fewer errors.
The Lazarus Gadget
The demise of the smartwatch has been predicted since the sales of Apple’s version of the device began to slip.
Excel: Lookup Formulas Get a Makeover with XLOOKUP
Office 365 subscribers rejoice: You’ll soon see the new functions XLOOKUP and XMATCH in Excel.
Shadow IT and Governance
Unauthorized applications that exist on a company’s IT network, known as “Shadow IT,” can present governance problems.
Access: Data Structure
The best data structure is flexible and reflects how the objects on which the data is based exist in real life.
Tools of the Trade: October 2019
A look at the iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 11, Apple Watch Series 5, Garmin Venu GPS Watch.
Old Technology as a Strategic Advantage
A Fijian retail company opted against upgrading its information system. Sometimes the status quo is best for business.
Tools of the Trade: September 2019
A look at the Hasselblad X1D II 50C camera, HiRise wireless charger, StayGo USB-C Hub, and Seagate expansion drive.
Excel: CONVERTing Units of Measurement
Excel’s CONVERT has more than 100 conversion rates built in, so you don’t have to memorize conversion facts.
Access: Undoing Updates
Verify data before it’s updated and devise a process to undo changes so you can run update queries again if necessary.
A Smart Pandora’s Box
As smartphone addiction increases, one answer might be a minimalist phone disconnected from the internet.
AI in Data Governance
In our data-driven era, AI can improve data governance and establish a competitive advantage for any organization.
Add Data Analytics to Intro Accounting
Help students develop familiarity with data analytics by using Excel, Power BI, and Tableau in introductory courses.
Developing the Right Skill Sets
Singapore Management University added three data analytics programs to its accounting curriculum in response to a skills gap.
Jony Ive Exits Apple
Apple’s legendary chief design officer, Jony Ive, has announced he will be leaving the company after 20-plus years.
Tools of the Trade: August 2019
A look at the OnePlus 7 Pro phone, Apple’s iPhone XR, reMarkable Digital Notepad, and the Brother HL-L2350DW laser printer.
Access: Using VBA’s Split Function
Use the Split function in Visual Basic for Applications to break up strings of data so you can run queries.
Excel: Brute-Force Solving
You can use Excel’s brute-force solving feature to examine all the alternatives of a scenario with many possible permutations.
Further Demystification of Agile Project Management
Agile project management has a number of benefits, but there also are challenges, especially if you aren’t used to using it.
Machine Bias inside the Black Box
The accounting profession must understand AI and its potential positive—and negative—impacts, including potential bias.
Tools of the Trade: July 2019
A look at ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo, Apple Mac Pro and Pro Display XDR, Dell Inspiron 27 7000, and the latest Apple iPod Touch.
Access: Normalize Imported Data
When shuffling imported data into appropriate tables, the data needs to be normalized, or focused on one category.
Excel: Undoing an Undo
Excel offers an Undo stack that will let you undo the previous 100 operations. How do you go back to a certain point in time?
The Inventors’ Corner of the IoT
The IoT welcomes inventors of all sorts, even those lacking backers who rely on crowdfunding from Indiegogo and Kickstarter.
Survey: Data Strategy Challenges
Various organizations worldwide were surveyed about their biggest challenges to implementing a data management strategy.
Excel: Clustered Column Chart with Percent of Month
Using chart labels from a separate range of cells, users can label clustered column charts differently.
The Future of Technology and Analytics
Management accountants must stay abreast of the latest technological developments and build competencies accordingly.
Tools of the Trade: June 2019
This month, we look back in time to the Brunsviga Nova Calculator, Osborne 1 computer, Microsoft Multiplan, and HP 12c Platinum Calculator.
The VisiCalc Dawn
How Dan Bricklin and Bob Frankston created the first successful electronic spreadsheet program, VisiCalc.
Access: Organizing Imported Data from Excel
This second in a series looks at moving imported data to a different destination table based on what the data describes.
Excel: Wildcards in VLOOKUP and SUMIFS
In Excel, users can apply VLOOKUP with wildcards to match a number embedded in a longer cell. Faster VLOOKUPs are in the works.
Access: Append and Update Data from Excel
An importing process of append and update queries can combine worksheets into a single table in Access.
Tools of the Trade: May 2019
This month, we look at the iPad Mini 5, iPad Air, iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy S10, Google Pixel 3, RAVPower Filehub Plus.
Agile Project Management in Analytics
Those working on analytics projects tend to prefer agile project management to traditional project management.
Survival of the Memes
A review of the consequences of the Directive on Copyright in the Digital Single Market passed by the European Parliament.
Being a Smart Leader in a Digital Age
Tomorrow CEO Mike Walsh advises leaders on how to thrive in the current era of disruptive technological change.
AI: New Risks and Rewards
With AI, computers can now process massive databases quickly and offer deeper analyses. But it can also lead to risks.
Are You Getting the Most from Your IT Tools?
It’s important to ensure that any new IT implementation delivers gains in both efficiency and effectiveness.
Access: Importing Excel Spreadsheets
Importing data from Excel requires a proper data structure so the data will be organized for effective use in Access.
Security Breaches: Are You Ready?
Effective organizations must have a detailed plan for responding to, not just reacting to, breaches in cybersecurity.
The Origami Smartphone Arrives
With the introductions of the Galaxy Fold and Mate X, the foldable smartphone begins its move toward the mainstream.
Excel: Rolling 12 Months in a Pivot Table
Create a pivot table that will show a rolling 12 months of sales and have it update automatically.
Tools of the Trade: April 2019
This month, we look at the Samsung Galaxy Fold, LG V50 ThinQ 5G, F(x)TecPro1, and Microsoft Hololens-2 AR headset.
Can RPA Improve Agility?
Finance departments can improve their agility through the adoption of robotic process automation tools and techniques.
Tools of the Trade: March 2019
This month, we look at the Sony RX100 VI, LibreOffice 6, Omnipage Ultimate, Wemo Mini Smart Plug.
A New AI Social Contract
An analysis of the social, economic, and political upheaval that will accompany the four waves of AI.
Access: Random Numbers
The Rnd function can be used to return a single random number, but the result generated changes constantly.
Excel: Pivot Table by Weekday and Month
With Get & Transform features introduced in Excel 2016, it’s possible to easily produce a pivot table by the day of the week.
Access: Age Overdue Accounts with Partition
Partition, a little-known function in Access, can group numbers into ranges, such as with aging overdue balances.
Excel: Filter Faster
Save valuable time with this quick, easy trick for filtering data.
Tools of the Trade: February 2019
This month: LG Signature OLED TV R, Asus Zenbook S13, Withings Move ECG watch, AerBetic Wearable Glucose Sensor.
Modernizing Government Financial Reporting
The OPEN Government Data Act requires federal agencies to disclose information online using machine-readable data formats.
Where is Tech Headed in 2019?
Here’s a better look into the tech trends for 2019 through the first two international expos—CES19 and Mobile World Congress.
From the Mainframe to the Blockchain
Blockchain is changing the way businesses conduct transactions and exchange data. The time is now to adapt and get on board.
Access: Pop-Up Forms
Make your database more user friendly by adding pop-up forms to capture additional data or information.
Tools of the Trade: January 2019
This month: Garmin’s Fenix 5 Plus smart watch, a udoq charging system, mixcder headphones, and an Epson FastFoto scanner.
Excel: Stocks Data Type
Like the Geography data type, the new Stocks data type gets current data from the internet for display in your workbook.
Understanding Smart Machines
How Smart Machines Think by Sean Gerrish offers a detailed explanation of how many of our intelligent machines work.
Transforming Analytics through Data Governance
Get the most out of analytics by establishing a data-driven culture with a effective, efficient approach to data governance.
Access: Cross-Reference Contacts and Lists
Assign individual contacts to specific groups for greater flexibility in your contact management system.
Excel: New Geography Data Type
Excel’s new Linked Data Types will enable users to get additional data from the internet related to cell contents.
Tools of the Trade: December 2018
This month we take a look at the new Apple iPad Pro, MacBook Air, Dell Ultrawide Monitor, Mac Mini.
Toward Web 3.0
Web 3.0 will be different in many ways, some of which—like the cloud, AI, and IoT—have already appeared online.
Preparing to Compete in the Digital Age
A forthcoming IMA study found that implementation of leading-edge analytics is a work-in-progress for most organizations.
Smaller Accounting Firms Embrace Tech
According to the 2018 Global SMP Survey, SMPs are increasingly allocating resources to investment in technology.
Access: Managing Contacts
Creating a database of personal and business contacts begins with storing unique names for each contact.
Excel: Dynamic Array Functions
A new set of powerful array functions in Excel can be used to solve problems and simplify complicated formulas.
Tools of the Trade: November 2018
This month: Google’s smartphones Pixel 3 and Pixel 3X, the Razer Phone 2, Google Home Hub, and Kobo’s Forma eReader.
Digital Disappearances
The problem with data libraries is that they depend on short-lived hardware and are vulnerable to attack.
Tools of the Trade: October 2018
This month we look at the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Plus, iPhone XR, Lenovo Yoga Book C930, and the new Apple Watch Series 4.
Digital Demands
Management accountants must partner with IT and adopt essential tools to stay involved in business processes and strategy.
The State of the Smartphone: October 2018
Since autumn is now “new smartphone season,” we review some history and the basic numbers for the revolution that continues.
Excel: Comments and Notes
Microsoft is rolling out threaded comments to Excel for Office 365 subscribers, but the old notes system will also remain.
Access: Highlight the Current Record
Use conditional formatting to highlight the current record on a form so that it stands out and is easier to focus on.
Tech Pros Not Confident in AI Deployment Security
The Digital Transformation Barometer reveals concerns around social engineering, manipulated content, and data poisoning.
CFOs Are Making Data and Analytics Top Priorities
The 2018 Finance Trends Survey Report highlights the areas of the finance function that finance executives are focusing on.
How to Master Digital Age Competencies
Completing 40 to 60 hours of study in data science can keep you on track to a successful future in management accounting.
Tools of the Trade: September 2018
This month we look at the Samsung Galaxy Note 9, Apple MacBook Pro 2018, Logitech K780 keyboard, and the Sherpa 40 Power Bank.
Developing Data Fluency
As technology changes management accounting, keeping up with the latest developments requires a step-by-step approach.
Excel: New Survey Features
A new feature coming to Excel lets you build surveys that users can access by scanning a 2-D barcode with their smartphone.
Hacking: A 2018 Growth Industry
The hackers at Def Con and the researchers at Cisco agree: Hacking is growing and becoming more dangerous.
Access: Localized International Information
Building international applications can require more generic designs and advanced settings to display values in local formats.
Survey: Small Business Cybersecurity
A survey of individuals at small businesses finds that most employees and company leaders underestimate cyber risk.
SEC Orders Reporting via Inline XBRL
The SEC has developed a phased transition plan for organizations to submit financial information using Inline XBRL.
Use Snapchat to Engage Students
Snapchat can help professors engage their students by illustrating real-world examples, reinforcing key concepts, and more.
Are COSO Frameworks Enough?
As technology takes on an increasingly larger role in operations, business-focused frameworks might not be enough.
Security in a World of Zero Trust
The SecureCircle model for corporate cybersecurity embraces Zero Trust, Transparent File Encryption, and Similarity Detection.
Tools of the Trade: August 2018
This month we look at the Microsoft’s Surface Go, Hippocketwifi, SanDisk Extreme Portable, and Corel Photo Mirage.
Excel: Power Query Makes Tasks Easier
Power Query not only makes it easier to get and transform data, but you can also teach Excel to automate the process.
Access: Windows Region Settings
The Windows region settings influence how date and time values are displayed. In Access, this can impact certain data types.
Blockchain: Disruption and Opportunity
Increased adoption and standardization efforts are moving blockchain beyond proof of concept and into operations.
Tools of the Trade: July 2018
This month we look at the Asus ZenBook Pro 15, Unihertz Atom smartphone, WordPerfect Office X9, Sony Wireless Earbuds.
Excel: Reporting Text in a Pivot Table
With the Data Model and the new DAX function CONCATENATEX, you can display text fields in pivot tables.
Getting Started with Cryptocurrencies
Don’t let the specialized language and new technology scare you away from cryptocurrencies. Even novices can get involved.
Access: Date (+ Time) Format
Use symbols and characters in the Format property to control how date and time values are displayed.
The Data Life Cycle
Understanding the typical phases of data resource management can help an organization establish its data governance protocol.
Tools of the Trade: June 2018
This month: reMarkable tablet, Logitech’s Keys-to-Go keyboards, Nest smart security camera, and the Dymo LabelWriter 4XL.
Excel: A Checklist System Using Icon Sets
Have a monthly close process or other processes with a series of tasks? Create a checklist in Excel using custom icon sets.
Access: Dates and Times
When entering date or time values, Access is very flexible at recognizing variety of different formats.
Bitcoin Rising
Trades and transactions in cryptocurrencies like bitcoin can be taxable events and need to be properly reported to the IRS.
Draining the Data Swamp
The key to effective data management lies in smart governance, technology integration, and process improvements.
The Cost of Losing Handwriting
Taking notes by hand leads to greater comprehension and retention compared to typing notes into a laptop.
Tools of the Trade: May 2018
This month we look at the Apple iPad 9.7, ZeroLemon Battery Case, iPhone Special Red edition, and Dyson Wi-Fi Air Purifier.
Excel: Consolidations in Excel
With the built-in Consolidate tool, you can combine data sets from multiple worksheets (or workbooks) into one.
The Malicious Use of AI: Part 2
Will achieving human-level machine intelligence be followed by superintelligent machines? What might the consequences be?
New Accounting Skills for the Digital Age
IMA’s updated Competency Framework will outline key skill areas management accountants will need to master in the digital age.
Building Confidence in Nonfinancial Reporting
With nonfinancial information growing in importance, ensuring its integrity is vital. Internal controls and technology can help.
Access: Use Excel with a Wrapper Function
With a wrapper function written in VBA, you can use Excel’s built-in functions, like PMT, throughout your database.
Survey: IT Audit Benchmarking
A survey identifies best practices and areas for improvement for IT audit and internal audit leaders and professionals.
Cyber CFO: The Next Top Finance Job?
In today’s ever-changing technological world, companies are turning to the CFO to manage and oversee cyber risk management.
Creating a Brighter Future with Artificial Intelligence
IBM’s Lori Victor Feller talks about digital strategies, being a first mover vs. fast follower, and disruptive technologies.
Tools of the Trade: April 2018
This month we look at the Samsung Galaxy S9/S9 Plus, Lenovo 300e Chromebook, Asus Zenfone 5Z, and Nokia 8110 4G.
The Malicious Use of AI
Artificial intelligence has a very positive side and a seriously threatening one. Both require a culture of responsibility.
Access: Using Excel’s PMT Function in Access
With a VBA script, Access users can leverage Excel’s built-in functions such as PMT, which calculates the periodic payment for an annuity.
Excel: Using TEXTJOIN with an Array
The new TEXTJOIN formula available to Office 365 subscribers offers significant improvements over CONCATENATE.
Books: What to Do When Machines Do Everything
Materials, machines, and models are vital to staying ahead of the AI curve. Even traditional companies can adapt to compete.
Excel: Artificial Intelligence Comes to Excel
A new tool, named Insights, can analyze your Excel data for patterns and identify unusual or interesting facts.
Digital Twins Invade Industry
A recent innovation in the Internet of Things, digital twins could have a dramatic impact on product manufacturing and more.
Access: User-defined Functions
With VBA, you can create your own functions to use throughout a database—in forms, queries, reports, and even code.
Tools of the Trade: March 2018
This month we look at Bitdefender Antivirus 2018 and Bitdefender Box 2, the Spot-R Sensor, and the Apple HomePod.
Value through Robotic Process Automation
These four steps will help finance leaders take advantage of the value-creation opportunities that RPA can provide.
Adapting for Digital Survival
Technology is rapidly changing the business environment. Companies need to stay ahead of the curve or risk obsolescence.
Establishing IT Governance
Changes in technology should be undertaken through the lens of IT governance and benefit the whole organization.
Access: Change a List Box Using VBA
With VBA, you can modify an SQL statement to change the content of a list box based on other parameters on the form.
Edge Computing and Fogging
The focus of data processing is shifting from the centralized cloud to the edges, where much of the data is generated.
Tools of the Trade: February 2018
We look at HP Spectre x360 convertible laptop, Lenovo Smart Display, Optoma Home Projector, Soofa Bulletin Board.
Excel: Cell Selection and Deselection
Microsoft is rolling out a new feature that lets users deselect unwanted cells after selecting multiple cells or ranges.
Assessing IT Risk
Management accountants can use their experience with performance measures to help companies monitor and evaluate IT risks.
Access: Using SQL in the Row Source Property
SQL and VBA provide a lot of neat functionality in Access. Take your first step in learning about SQL with this example.
The Far Limits of Artificial Intelligence—Part 2
We revisit the question of machine imagination and creativity with the Lovelace Test and Chef Watson from IBM.
XBRL, Blockchain, and New Technologies
New technologies and the internet’s culture of openness are transforming business reporting and data analytics.
Tools of the Trade: January 2018
We look at Sony Bravia A1E smart TV, Samsung Gear S3 smartwatch, MikMe wireless microphone recorder, SanDisk iXpand Base.
Excel: Use Helper Cells to Improve Formula Speeds
Don’t use formulas that calculate the same answer repeatedly. Improve calculation times by using a helper range.
Access: Subform to Display Calculations
When working with a form, add subforms to display relevant, updated data and other information drawn from multiple tables.
Tools of the Trade: December 2017
We look at Google Home, Kindle Oasis 2, Nixplay digital picutre frames, and the Razer smartphone for gamers.
Excel: Creating Tables from Timeline Slicers
Use a disconnected pivot table to generate a worksheet title that always shows the dates selected for a Timeline slicer.
The Far Limits of Artificial Intelligence
During the Year of AI, the conversation turned to an old question about AI—can machines show imagination and act creatively?
Where Do We Start with Cybersecurity?
Both individuals and companies need to be educated and work together to combat the ever-growing cybersecurity threats.
XBRL and the Cloud
Implementing XBRL with the right cloud-based solutions greatly improve financial and business reporting processes.
Are You Ready for Your Robots?
Rather than replace management accountants, robots will help elevate them from bean counters to strategic business partners.
Cybersecurity: Common Risks
Cybercrime is a dynamic risk. To avoid a costly security setback, organizations must learn to recognize the warning signs.
Cybersecurity Stakeholders
The cybersecurity industry has grown immensely for both private and government entities. Each sector has its own challenges.
Excel: Split Delimited Data into New Rows
Using Excel’s Power Query tools, you can convert delimited data within a cell or column into new rows.
The War for Cyberspace
Information warfare and cyberwarfare are different from espionage and warfare in the past, and they may be more dangerous.
Tools of the Trade: November 2017
We look at Google’s Pixel 2 and 2XL, Microsoft’s Surface Book 2, the Google Home Max assistant, and the August Smart Lock Pro.
Access: Main Forms and Subforms
Embedding forms in Access is useful for streamlined data entry and better organization of relational data.
Eye Tracking for Better Reports
Eye tracking provides a concrete representation of the most efficient and effective data visualizations for management accountants.
RegTech Is in Fashion
Brad Monterio and Anne Leslie-Bini discuss RegTech, a way to leverage technology to help companies remain compliant.
Access: Creating a Combo Box
A combo box in Access allows you to display values a user can choose from. This is especially useful for a list of customers.
Excel: The Pitfalls of AutoSave
Microsoft added a feature called AutoSave. While it affords Co-Authoring, it also prevents you from closing without saving.
The iPhone and the Mobile Revolution
The iPhone deserves most of the credit it has been given as a prime mover of the mobile revolution.
Tools of the Trade: October 2017
This month we look at the iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, Apple Watch Series 3, and the Volterman Smart Wallet.
Who’s Responsible for Cybersecurity?
Organizations need to be informed about the many avenues hackers might use to execute costly data breaches and prepare accordingly.
Access: Create a Shareable Calendar
A free downloadable tool can turn data from a query into a calendar that shows important dates and information for a month.
Tools of the Trade: September 2017
This month we look at the Tab S3, Keeper Security Password app, Samsung DeX Station, and a perpetual calendar.
Excel: New Features in Office 365
With a subscription to Office 365, you no longer have to wait for the next version to come out before you get new features.
Will Artificial Intelligence Eliminate My Job?
While artificial intelligence and technology may threaten certain sectors, a forward-thinking professional can stay ahead of the curve.
Blockchain: A Deloitte Report Card
As the blockchain revolution ramps up, the trust economy prepares for its impact. Just how disruptive will the technology be?
Survey: CFOs and Finance Leadership
SAP and Oxford Economics look at how accounting and finance roles are evolving in response to the digital economy.
Excel-based Active Learning
Excel-based projects help students learn how to apply management accounting concepts in practical business scenarios.
Tools of the Trade: August 2017
This month we look at a Dell 2-in-1 laptop, the HTC U11 smartphone, a Louis Vuitton smartwatch, and Nikon’s KeyMission 170.
Access: Visualizing Value Changes
Use data visualizations in Access to show if a value has increased, decreased, or stayed the same.
Excel: RANK, COUNTIF, and Floating Point Errors
Excel normally uses 15 digits of precision, but some features now appear to be using 17, which can cause unexpected problems.
Improve Your Technology Skills
Management accountants need to be aware of new technology and keep themselves updated on the latest trends.
The Evolution of Electric Text
There are important differences between printed text and the electric text created on word process running on computers.
Inline XBRL Runs into Opposition
Critics of the SEC’s proposed requirement to use Inline XBRL note that many software vendors aren’t prepared for it.
EXCEL: USING PASTE SPECIAL
While some may have forgotten about them, there are powerful commands available in the Excel Paste Special dialog.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE: JULY 2017
This month we look at the Asus ZenBook Flip S (UX370), Apple iPad Pro 10.5, Apple Home Pod, and Rocketbook Wave Notebook.
ACCESS: GRAPHS IN A QUERY USING UNICODE
It’s possible to use Unicode characters, such as blocks or half blocks, to display a simple bar graph in an Access query.
THE SILK ROAD ON THE DARK WEB
A review of Nick Bilton’s book American Kingpin: The Epic Hunt for the Criminal Mastermind behind the Silk Road.
GROWING UP IN ANALYTICS
A look at the tools, skills required, and other information needed to increase the analytics capability of your organization.
The CFO: Industrial Engineer of Knowledge Work
Contrary to popular belief, a significant proportion of knowledge work can be standardized. CFOs can lead the way.
KEY SKILL SETS FOR MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING
The integration of domain knowledge, technical ability, and analytical skills can lead to successful projects.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE: JUNE 2017
This month, we look at the Microsoft Surface Laptop, Amazon Echo Show, VeriMark Fingerprint Key, and OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock.
EXCEL: SORTING WITH VBA
A recorded macro for sorting data won’t work if the number of rows in the data changes. Use this VBA code instead.
MICROSOFT’S RE-ENTRY INTO ACADEMIA
Microsoft is increasing its efforts to regain its position in the education sector with an OS geared toward the classroom.
ACCESS: AGING ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Using the Immediate If function in a query, you can group accounts receivable into different age categories and track totals.
The Blueprint for Continuous Accounting
Continuous Accounting modernizes the financial close process by embedding automation and more into day-to-day activities.
Allocating Service Department Costs with Excel
With Excel’s iterative calculation option, using the reciprocal method is much simpler and more efficient.
PARTNERING WITH DATA SCIENTISTS FOR MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING SUCCESS
Lead a business transformation by partnering with data scientists to unlock the potential of data and technology.
Access: The Expression Builder
Use the Expression Builder to create formulas in many different places, including fields, queries, and tables.
HACKING HARDWARE
A recent book looks into the engineering and politics that go into the manufacturing of computer hardware.
Excel: The Function Arguments Dialog and Nested Functions
Follow this simple but nonintuitive trick to use the Function Arguments dialog when creating a formula with nested functions.
Tools of the Trade: May 2017
iPad Tablet 5th generation, Samsung Galaxy S8, UE Wonderboom Bluetooth speaker, SandDisk iXpand drive.
ACCESS: FORMULAS
Used for calculations, validating data, and setting default values, formulas are a critical element of Access databases.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN BUSINESS
A look at how Basware business software is incorporating Artificial Intelligence in its products and processes.
EXCEL: SETTING PIVOT TABLE DEFAULTS
A new Excel feature for Office 365 users lets you set the default layout for any pivot table you create.
Tools of the Trade: April 2017
A look at the Nokia 3310, BlackBerry Key One, Sony Xperia XA1, and Lenovo Miix 320.
COGNITIVE COMPUTING: TEACHING COMPUTERS TO LEARN
Because of its predictive and learning abilities, cognitive computing is expanding into many areas of business.
Accountants and Tech: A Game Changer?
A new framework for accounting information systems will help accounting education keep pace with changes in technology.
Machine Learning, Human Fraud
With AI dominating headlines, preventing these intelligent machines from enabling fraud remains a significant concern.
Excel: Finding Journal Entries Not in Balance
A neat trick that involves sorting data while grouped by subtotal is a powerful way to manipulate your data.
Tools of the Trade: March 2017
CTL J5X Chromebook, daVinci Mini 3D Printer, Lenovo Yoga 910, Ventev s500 Charging Hub.
Access: Numbers
When a field contain numerical data, there are several different data type and field size options to choose from.
AI Rising
After a 30-year period of development, AI may finally be seeing its great realization in 2017.
IT Audit Survey
Protiviti and ISACA find that IT audits and technology issues are getting more attention at the board and executive levels.
The Changing Nature of Accounting
New technologies will push the role of accountants further away from bean counting toward business coach and advisor.
ABSOLUTELY SECURE COMPUTING
The launch of the quantum communications satellite Micius could provide a path forward for computer security.
EXPANDING THE ACCOUNTING ECOSYSTEM
Management accountants are in a key position to help companies leverage nonfinancial reporting for long-term sustainability.
Tools of the Trade: February 2017
Lenovo Phab 2 Pro, Lenovo Smart Assistant, Acer Predator Z301CT, Cota Ceiling Tile Wireless Charger.
Excel: Converting Dates to Quarters
Excel doesn’t have a function that returns a fiscal-year quarter number. These solutions will get you the results you need.
Access: Data Types
Selecting the correct data type for your fields can make all the difference in creating a successful database.
The Quest for Privacy
Organizations need to go the extra mile and not only ensure the security of their data but safeguard its privacy as well.
Tools of the Trade: January 2017
Satechi Smart Charging Stand, Seagate 5TB Portable Hard Drive, Logitech Create iPad Pro, FitBit Flex 2 Fitness Wristband
The Most Notorious Hacks of 2016
Even the most high-profile tech luminaries were vulnerable to being hacked in 2016. Is a quantum satellite the answer?
Get Ready for Blockchain
Management accountants need to remain ahead of the IT curve, learning about blockchain and its potential business impact.
Excel: When “Identical” Cells Don’t MATCH
There are a couple of solutions to consider when the MATCH formula won’t recognize matching items in two lists.
Access: Database Tables
Designing an effective database begins with the how you organize and structure the data within tables.
Manufacturing Enters the Third Dimension
3D printing can have a significant impact on traditional supply chain logistics as well as product development and prototyping.
The Power of Finance Automation
Automate your manual accounting processes to free up your accounting and finance team to focus on driving performance.
Big Data on Small Budgets
Big Data isn’t just for giant corporations. There are many tools and solutions for budgets and companies of any size.
Excel: Using an Alternate Calendar
When using dates, Excel usually assumes a traditional calendar. The Data Model can help if you use something different.
ACCESS: CUSTOMIZE THE QUICK ACCESS TOOLBAR
Put the commands you use regularly on the QAT and avoid having to search through the various tabs and ribbons.
It’s About Time
The smartwatch has been in development for 88 years and is still having trouble finding adopters. Why?
Tools of the Trade: December 2016
Microsoft Surface Studio, Microsoft Surface Book i7, MacBook Pro 2016, Kodak Ektra.
Tools of the Trade: November 2016
Discover the latest in must-have technology: Google Pixel, Google Home, Netgear Arlo Pro, Quad Lock Car Mount.
ADD JUST ONE MORE
Despite the vast impact that computers have had on the world, there’s no Nobel Prize for computing. It’s time for a change.
Excel: Moving Subtotals to a New Column
After applying the Subtotals feature, use this technique to move the subtotals into a separate column from your data.
Access: Refining the Sales Report
After creating a report with the Report Wizard, it’s often necessary to tweak the design so it’s easier to read.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES IN IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY
Keep these important tips in mind when implementing a new system or software package at your company.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE: OCTOBER 2016
iPhone 7, Apple Watch Series 2, Echo Dot, SignalVault.
EXCEL: INTERACTIVE REPORTS WITH POWER BI
A new tool from Microsoft enables users to create and share a number of interactive reports.
ACCESS: CREATING A GROUPED REPORT
How to build a report for product sales grouped by year, month, and day.
THE UPSIDE OF GADGET ADDICTION
There are some positive benefits to being a gadget enthusiast.
BETTER PERFORMANCE THROUGH ANALYTICS
The first in a series on moving from predictive to prescriptive analytics.
AFTER THE TURING TEST
Our computers and robots are getting smarter, which raises the question: Will they achieve consciousness?
Tools of the Trade: September 2016
Galaxy Note7, Instax Share SP-2, Logitech iPad Cover CREATE, AUKEY Power Bank.
Access: Use VBA to Modify a Crosstab Query
Add code that will limit the records displayed in a report based on user-entered criteria.
Excel: Problems After Upgrading Computers
A user encounters a problem after a computer upgrade: All new workbooks only print in black and white.
OPEN SOURCE ESSENTIALS
Open source accounting software is becoming an increasingly popular choice. Management accountants need to know the benefits and downsides.
Access: Enhancing a Menu
Use a tab control to organize the controls on a menu form and create a better user experience.
Canning Blackberries
The discontinuation of the BlackBerry Classic is a sign of the inevitability and persistence of change.
Excel: Color-Coding Values
Use conditional formatting to highlight cells or rows in different colors, depending on their values.
Technology Trends to Watch
Management accountants need to stay abreast of the latest technology trends and developments that could help on the job.
Tools of the Trade: August 2016
HP Spectre 13, New Kindle, Garmin Fenix 3, iRoller Cleaner.
Writing without Ink
Pen and paper might finally face a serious challenge from the digital world with Apple’s pencil and the Surface stylus.
Tools of the Trade: July 2016
Dell Inspiron 2-in-1 laptop, Innova8, Apple App Store, Notability, NuBryte Touchpoint
Excel: Using Custom Lists with the Fill Handle
This solution frees users from having to type the same series of values with the creation of each new workbook.
Access: Building a Menu
Menus provide a simple, direct solution for helping users navigate your database.
Polytechnic Education for the Cybersecurity Workforce
Cal Poly Pomona uses a hands-on, learn-by-doing approach to teach its students about cybersecurity and computer information systems.
Access: Control Names in Calculations
Use the results of aggregate calculations to create other statistics for your Access report.
ITGC and the Management Accountant
Be a collaborative business leader by understanding your organization’s IT general controls and leveraging them for continued success.
Excel: Array Formulas in Conditional Formatting
Use an array formula with conditional formatting to highlight the smallest value greater than zero.
Tools of the Trade: June 2016
Philips SpeechAir recorder, Punkt. MP01, Kindle Oasis, Apple HomeKit, Hesperus
The Evolving Personal Assistants
Personal digital assistants have developed slowly, but they now have human voices and deep learning capabilities.
Excel: Sentiment Analysis
An Excel add-in makes it easier to analyze text and comments fields from survey results.
Tools of the Trade: May 2016
Samsung Galaxy TabPro S, iPad Pro 9.7, iPhone 6s Plus, BrydgeAir Keyboard
Politics, Privacy, and Cryptology
Within a single month, both Apple and Microsoft got embroiled with the government in legal disputes over privacy.
Access: Grouped Report
Turn your data into grouped reports with subtotals and summaries.
Handling IT Questions in an Uncertain Economy
When the economy isn’t doing well, prioritizing investments in IT can be difficult. These strategies can help.
More Strategic CFOs?
Corporate performance management software helps CFOs broaden their thinking to better contribute to the overall health and longevity of the organization.
Excel: Replacing Volatile Conditional Formatting
Use custom number formats to flag cells in a large range to avoid a potential slowdown in performance.
Improving Data Quality: People, Process, Technology
Management accountants are in a prime position to help ensure better data governance and quality.
Hacking Your Car
Loaded with chips, software, and various computer systems, our cars are now hackable in ways most of us wouldn’t consider.
Tools of the Trade: April 2016
Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, LG G5, Garmin Vivoactive HR.
Access: Stacked Column Chart
Use a crosstab query to help create a chart that tracks monthly sales by category.
Excel: Six New Functions
The late-January Excel update included the new CONCAT, TEXTJOIN, IFS, SWITCH, MAXIFS, and MINIFS functions.
The Computer that Taught Itself to Win at Go
Another AI milestone looms with the upcoming match between Google’s AlphaGo and Lee Sedol, the human world champion of Go.
Access: Chart a Secondary Axis
Display two different sets of data on the same chart in Access.
Ready or Not, Here Comes Accounting Automation
Management accountants need to be prepared to master the newest technology innovations in accounting.
Tools of the Trade: March 2016
HP Spectre x2 2-in-1, My Passport Ultra external drive, ThinkWare DashCam, Pulse Solo LED light with JBL Bluetooth speaker.
IRS HACKED AGAIN
Hackers launch another attack against the IRS, this time using stolen personal data.
CREATING VALUE WITH CPM
Corporate performance management software can provide better automation and information gathering to help financial professionals make better, more informed decisions.
Excel: Shortening a VLOOKUP
Reduce calculation time and improve efficiency by using related tables and the Power Query tool.
Tools of the Trade: February 2016
The ThinkPad X1 Tablet, Sony USB Turntable, Oculus Rift VR, D-Link DIR-879 Wi-Fi Router.
How Nonprofits Use Online Technologies
A variety of factors influence how nonprofit organizations use technology and online tools.
Access: Calculating Running Sums
Tracking monthly data? Use a query to create a running sum for your results.
Wikipedia Is 15
The website with the 7th-highest traffic worldwide provides 5 million encyclopedia articles free in 250 languages.
Excel: Combining Many CSV Files
A new Excel feature makes it easy to combine an entire folder of CSV files into one workbook.
Cybersecurity: Watch Out for Data Leaks!
Data leakage is a bigger threat to companies than hacking or data breaches.
Access: Creating a Graph
Create charts and graphs in Access to present your data visually.
Tools of the Trade: January 2016
Olympus Tough TG-4, Epson Expression Home XP620, Tylt Vu wireless charger, Eton emergency light.
The Second Machine Age
The World Economic Forum solicited predictions about the future of software and society.
BIG DATA OR BIG EMPATHY?
Big Data skills should be supported with “big empathy” skills to improve the quality of data.
Excel: Pivot Tables and Custom Numbers
Custom number formatting applied to a pivot table doesn’t stay after the pivot table is changed, but there’s a way around it.
Tools of the Trade: December 2015
The LG Urbane 2 smartwatch, an entry-level Roku, the Alpha 2 Robot, and the Nest Security Cam.
A New Bluetooth in 2016
The next version of Bluetooth will be twice as fast, reach four times as far, and will be able to connect to other networks.
Access: 12 Ways of Access
A look back at the key strategies and functions covered in previous columns.
EXCEL: POORLY FORMATTED DATES
Excel doesn’t recognize dates very well. This process can help convert your data into the right format.
THE FUTURE OF THE INTERNET OF THINGS
Management accountants can harness the Internet of Things to improve data collection, analysis, and decision making.
ACCESS: RUNNING TOTALS
The DSUM function is an effective tool for creating running totals for use in queries.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE: NOVEMBER 2015
New tablets from Amazon and Google, a mini desktop computer from Acer, and smartwatches from Samsung
Book Review: Optimizing Big Data
Think Bigger explains how Big Data is created, collected, stored, cataloged, and used in more than 18 industries.
THE NEW MICROSOFT UNIVERSE
Under new CEO Satya Nadella, Microsoft has reinvented itself to fit today’s computing world.
Internal Reporting with XBRL Global Ledger
Create business reports in XBRL GL format to enhance reporting and decision-making capabilities.
EXCEL: WHAT’S NEW IN EXCEL 2016
The newest version of Excel contains several improvements.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Identify, analyze, recommend, and implement the technologies that will bring your organization to the next level.
Siri’s Competition
The Intelligent Personal Assistant field is getting a little crowded with Google, Microsoft, Facebook, and Amazon joining Apple’s Siri.
Tools of the Trade: October 2015
Three new products from Apple, including two new iPhones, a very large iPad Pro, and an improved Apple TV.
Survey: Cybersecurity Threats
A recent IMA survey of senior finance professionals looks at their concerns regarding cybersecurity.
Access: Fill Down
You can create a process similar to Excel’s Fill Handle to fill in incomplete data in a table.
Excel: Cash Flow Waterfall Charts in Excel 2016
The pains of creating waterfall charts are gone with the release of Excel 2016.
Access: Fixing Dates from Excel
A simple table and update query can fix dates that are imported from Excel as number values.
Tools of the Trade: September 2015
Dell offers three rugged tablets that can survive the outdoors and the assembly line.
The Basics of Mobile Computing
Take advantage of the latest trends in mobile computing while ensuring that company data and information remain secure.
Robot Analysts and Robot Reporters
Companies like Automated Insights now provide computer-generated stories and financial reports for outlets like the AP, Yahoo!, and the NFL.
IRS SECURITY BREACH UPDATE
The IRS raised its estimate of people affected by the May 2015 cybersecurity breach.
Excel: Visualizing Positive and Negative Changes
Add data visualizations to quickly show if an amount has increased or decreased from one period to the next.
IT AND DATA GOVERNANCE: RELEVANT TO IMA MEMBERS
IT governance is an issue that affects all finance professionals, not just those in top management.
Tools of the Trade: August 2015
ASUS released the ZenPad S 8.0, the latest competitor to Apple’s iPad Mini.
THE BIGGEST GOVERNMENT HACK YET
The breach at the Office of Personnel Management compromised personal information and more for 21 million federal employees and contractors.
Access: Duplicates in Your Data
Duplicate records are inevitable. Create a process that will check for and remove duplicates from your data.
Excel: Iterating a Function 359 Times
Force Excel to repeat any calculation 359 times in a single formula.
WINDOWS 10: A RETREAT AND A REVOLUTION
Microsoft’s latest OS is an ambitious attempt to create a universal engine that can run on all platforms.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE: JULY 2015
Windows 10 will be a free update that will operate across all platforms.
KEY TECHNOLOGY TRENDS FOR MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTANTS
IMA’s Technology Solutions & Practices Committee has put together a list of top technology trends for 2015.
ACCESS: LEVERAGE ACCESS AND EXCEL
Access and Excel have different strengths that you can take advantage of within a single project.
Moving to the Cloud
The primary concerns of security, access, control, reliability, and quality should be familiar to any management accountant.
Access: Importing Data
If you’re having difficulty bringing data into your database, these importing basics and tips should help.
From Predictive to Prescriptive Analytics
Prescriptive analytics allow companies to better gauge customer profitability and reach potential new markets.
Excel: TOP-LEVEL BUDGET VS. DETAIL-LEVEL ACTUALS
The Excel 2013 Data Model lets you combine your budget data and actuals into one pivot table.
Tools of the Trade: June 2015
Tesla introduces a revolutionary home battery for solar power systems and simple backup against blackouts.
Still Adding to the Pile?
Technology has failed to provide a paperless office, but don’t blame the machines.
NSA Program Deemed Illegal
The NSA program that collected millions of Americans’ data has been found unlawful by a federal court.
CHIP CARDS: ARE CONSUMERS READY?
Consumers support replacing magnetic-strip cards with embedded-chip ones, but they haven’t done so on their own.
Raise Your Technical Intelligence
Management accountants need to raise their technical intelligence to keep pace with today’s rapidly changing technologies.
EXCEL: CREATING TERRITORIES
Excel 2013 lets you build pivot tables with data from more than one source.
TECHNOLOGY’S DEFLATIONARY CURVE
As the power and effectiveness of computing continues to increase, the progress is producing even greater discounts.
ACCESS: BREAKING UP TEXT
The MID and INSTR functions help you manipulate text from your data.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
Microsoft adds the lower-priced Surface 3 to its tablet line to directly compete with Apple’s iPad.
A COLLECTIVE SHRUG ABOUT PRIVACY
Users haven’t changed their behavior online despite greater awareness of privacy concerns.
Intercompany Transactions Can Snowball
Tracking, settling, and reconciling intercompany transactions can be a burdensome process. Technology offers a solution.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
The Apple Watch is finally available for purchase, and we also review the Samsung Galaxy S6 and two keyboards.
ACCESS: LINKING DATA IN QUERIES
Use multiple queries to link and combine different data sets together so you can create the report layout you want.
EMERGING CYBER THREATS
The latest survey of emerging cyber threats from Georgia Tech shows that the links exploited most often are human, not digital.
SHOULD THE CLOUD BE IN YOUR FUTURE?
Software-as-a-Service applications provide small businesses with a number of major advantages over in-house solutions.
EXCEL: REPLACING NESTED IF STATEMENTS WITH VLOOKUP
An approximate match VLOOKUP is a simple alternative to a long series of nested IF functions.
LINK UP WITH IMA
IMA’s Technology Solutions & Practices Committee has launched a new online community on LinkUp IMA.
EXCEL: NONCONTIGUOUS SELECTIONS
Add to Selection and Go To Special are two useful tools for selecting multiple ranges.
NEWS: MASSIVE CYBER ATTACK AT ANTHEM
Up to 80 million individuals have been affected.
Financial Supply Chain Management
FSCM has different meanings in different contexts, but they share the common theme of improving financial operating processes.
TECH FORUM: APPLE iPAD: THE FIRST FIVE YEARS
The story of the much-hyped device successfully captures the corporate vision that drove Steve Jobs.
ACCESS: Finding Records
Combo boxes can help users find data and limit the output of reports.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
Reviews for the Lenovo Yoga Tablet 2, Eero Wi-Fi System, InkCase Plus, and Amazon Kindle Convert.
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