Cloud computing is transforming the accounting profession and gaining worldwide attention. According to Jeff Drew, senior editor covering technology for the Journal of Accountancy, cloud computing was one of the most talked about topics during a recent AICPA Practitioners Symposium and TECH+ Conference. Gartner Inc., a world leader in information technology and analysis, projects worldwide cloud service revenues to reach $148.8 billion in 2014. Notwithstanding its rave reviews, many continue to resist the cloud. Whether from ignorance of its workings and advantages or uncertainty due to its newness and challenges, questions and concerns weigh heavily among those contemplating its adoption. Accountants who stay abreast of new developments within the field of cloud computing, becoming not only educated but experienced, will be able to provide assistance and advice in an organizations assessment process of this new cloud-based delivery platform. This article defines cloud computing and highlights some of the associated advantages and challenges faced by organizations considering cloud services.

<p>This article informs accounting educators and graduates about key issues in the accounting profession of today, which has entered a new age, and accounting educators and advisors, old and new, must be informed about future prospects for students and make students aware of what they can expect as accounting graduates. Passing this knowledge to students early on provides them with advanced understanding of what the future holds for accounting professionals and will allow students to better embrace their future once they graduate.</p> <p>This article emphasizes supply and demand, hiring and salary practices, and potential job opportunities for the accounting graduate. Information on the various certifications available for accountants and the interview process is included as well. The final section within the article offers insight into the future of the accounting profession. With this paper, educators and advisors gain knowledge to assist accounting students with their future career search process. Students will still need assistance to help them navigate the new environment that they are about to enter, but a clearer understanding of what to expect provides a better foundation on which to build a successful career.</p>

This paper informs business instructors and educators about XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language) so that they can introduce it to their students and expand their students understanding of how it relates to the accounting profession. Even though the financial community has entered a new age with this standardized reporting language, many business educators and even accountants old and new to the profession are not informed about XBRL nor have an idea of its potential benefits. With this paper, educators and students can learn the definition of XBRL, its history, and its current uses. The information educates the reader about the evolution of XBRL over the past two decades as well as its benefits so readers can become aware of the value of this now-worldwide application. The paper includes the SEC and FDIC adoption of this computer language as an international standard that aims to improve the speed, accuracy, and transparency of business reporting.