Stuart Karas
How to Document System Requirements Before You Choose New Software
New software opens up abundant opportunities for improvement: automated processes, streamlined workflows, system integrations, and much more. For many organizations, however, bridging the gap between current systems to new systems can be daunting. What begins as a push for efficiency can lead to frustration when the system fails to meet expectations—or worse, creates new problems. […]
Seminar Recap: Strategic Software Add-Ons to Streamline Operations
During AAFCPAs’ recent Nonprofit Seminar (April 2025), Robyn Leet and Stuart Karas of AAFCPAs’ Business Process & IT Consulting practice presented strategic considerations for nonprofit finance leaders looking to improve efficiency, automate painful manual operations, reduce duplication, and make better use of their existing software tools. Nonprofits often rely on a patchwork of systems—some modern, […]
Avoiding Costly Mistakes in Software Implementation
The Key to Successful Software Implementation is Careful Planning Implementing new software offers more than just a chance to update systems; it’s an opportunity to refine how your organization operates. While the drive to launch quickly may seem appealing, rushing the process can lead to missed opportunities, inefficiencies, and even long-term complications. A deliberate and […]
A Better Way to Track Representative Payee Services
For health organizations providing representative payee services, tracking expenses can be time-consuming, particularly when managing hundreds or thousands of client transactions and bank accounts. Many organizations rely on spreadsheets, which are risky, difficult to maintain, and lack real-time visibility. Month-end allocations and reconciliations further complicate client accounting and timely reporting. As a result, managers may […]
The Role of Internal Controls in Effective Risk Management
Internal controls—or the policies, procedures, and systems that safeguard assets and ensure compliance—are essential for managing risk. They help organizations prevent fraud, prevent and detect errors, and meet regulatory requirements. Beyond risk mitigation, internal controls enhance financial accuracy, protect critical assets, and improve efficiency. When aligned with organizational goals, they create a framework that supports […]
Is your chart of accounts an unnecessarily complex maze?
In the fast-paced world of business, growth often leads to complex challenges, especially in accounting. A common issue many organizations face as they expand is the management of increasingly lengthy account numbers. These numbers, which detail segments of transactions such as location, department, and grants, can become unwieldy as organizations rise to meet new challenges. […]
Cost Center Coding Strategies for Effective Grant Reporting
For complex human and social services providers, managing grants and ensuring compliance can often feel like navigating a labyrinth. One effective strategy to simplify this process is through cost center coding. AAFCPAs provides the following detailed guidance on how to leverage cost center coding to streamline grant reporting and maintain compliance. Design Your Cost Centers […]
A Guide to Business Process Assessment and System Selection
A business process assessment is the first step in identifying, addressing, and solving inefficiencies that may hold back performance and productivity within your organization. Successful, growing organizations often find themselves over-reliant on Excel for data management, facing reporting delays, lacking real-time insights, struggling with data processing and intensive reconciliations between systems, or closing late due […]
2023 Promotions Announced at AAFCPAs
Boston, MA (September 27, 2023) — AAFCPAs, a preeminent 300+ employee CPA and consulting firm specializing in tax, assurance, accounting, wealth management, business process and IT advisory solutions, is pleased to announce the promotions of new directors, managers, and rising professionals. Promotions recognize the exceptional accomplishments and achievements of each along with a steadfast dedication […]