By Rob Nance, Publisher

The first morning of the California Accounting & Business Show & Conference included a look at today's technology and the future of the industry.

Rick Richardson, CPA, CITP presented a comprehensive primer on software, hardware, communications and technology. I've often wondered: "How in the world can the busy accounting professional stay current on technology, as it relates to their own practices and to their clients?"

Richardson's presentation included a plethora of updates and predictions that apply to making critical business decisions.

Here are just a few of his opinions:

"The PDA market as we know it will be gone in 3-4 years."

"Accountants should create dashboards or mashups for their clients -- another revenue stream!"

"WI-MAX will be more important to you than the Internet--it will cover all communication."

Richardson also reported that Japan is ahead of the U.S. with pay-by-phone and other quick response technologies.

Microsoft's small business solutions

A sizable audience gathered to hear microsoft's Larry Garcia, Small Busines Solutions manager, and Bob Lewis, Senior Marketing Manager, present on Vista and Office Accounting 2007.

Eyes and ears definitely perked up when the use of Excel was brought into play. Nothing makes an accountant sit up and take notice like Excel! Also, the word "free" brightens the day of the accountant. Microsoft Office Accounting 2007 is free.

Ashraf M. Ali, an accountant with SMA Financial Inc. in Anaheim was impressed. "Now that I know more about Vista and Office Accounting 2007 I am excited," Ali said. "These tools will help me be more efficient and productive. It's a win for my clients."