Transform Overview

The who, what, where, when, and why

Why Attend?

SurePrep Transform is an immersive 3-day conference on the latest technological advancements in digital tax return preparation.

Sessions will cover advanced digital tax return preparation topics with a practical focus on actionable steps. Participants will learn how to leverage the latest advancements in automation, implement best practices, and adapt to the future. Between sessions, the scenic beach-side hotel provides ample opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are fueling digital disruption in the 1040 space. See the latest product demos and attend Q&As with innovators. The strategic insights you gain at SurePrep Transform will help your firm foster growth, overcome staffing shortages, and streamline workflows.

Who Should Attend?

SurePrep Transform will include valuable content for Partners, Managers, Administrators, IT, and the SurePrep Champions in your office.

SurePrep Transform attendees

2022 Attendees

If you’re looking to network with the industry’s best and brightest, this conference attracts top talent every year!

  • Principal/Partner/Director – 30%
  • Tax Technology Leader – 6%
  • Tax Manager – 36%
  • Tax Associate – 15%
  • Administrators – 13%

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Partners

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Tax Manager

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Tax Associate

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Admins

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Tax Tech Leader

Featured Speakers

SurePrep Transform will feature thought leaders in the tax and accounting space, in addition to client success panels, roundtable discussions, and in-depth explorations of the product roadmap with CEO David Wyle.

Sessions will focus on ways to harness the power of technology to streamline tax season for your firm and your clients. Topics include strategies for change management and process improvement; ways to leverage emerging AI-driven technologies; and best practices to maximize efficiency for firm administrators, preparers, and reviewers.

View the agenda for speaker and session information!

Diana Kander

Keynote Speaker: Diana Kander

New York Times best-selling author and innovation consultant

Diana Kander has spent her career challenging assumptions and asking big questions – what kind of culture needs to exist in an organization to ensure innovative ideas and practices? How has Snoop Dogg continued to innovate decade after decade to stay relevant to the next generation? What causes name brands to lose relevance with their customers and go out of business? A serial entrepreneur who entered the United States as a refugee at the age of 8, she has launched and sold millions of dollars’ worth of products and services. Her first book, All In Startup, has been used by over 100 universities in their innovation courses and countless large organizations to help their employees think more like entrepreneurs. Her second book, The Curiosity Muscle walks readers through a methodology to keep curiosity alive and thriving inside of an organization, ultimately, future-proofing the business.

Agenda*

*Draft Agenda Subject to Change

Sunday, October 22nd

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Registration
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Welcome Reception

Monday, October 23rd

6:30 AM – 5:30 PM Registration / Information Desk
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Breakfast
8:00 AM – 8:15 AM

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Welcome to Transform 2023! Hear SurePrep executives what you can expect over the next two days and what you need to know to navigate Transform 2023.

8:15 AM – 9:45 AM

Keynote Speaker

What kind of culture needs to exist in an organization to ensure innovative ideas and practices?

9:45 AM – 10:15 AM Break
10:15 AM – 11:45 AM

Product Roadmap for TaxCaddy, SPbinder, and Dashboard

The SurePrep Product Roadmap session will enable users to become more efficient and effective when preparing and reviewing tax returns by leveraging the inflight and upcoming enhancements. We will focus on the recent releases as well as new functionalities included within the SurePrep FileRoom, TaxCaddy, APIs, and the Reviewer Dashboard. Attendees will benefit by understanding how these features can be used to drive time savings and how they can incorporate them in their workflow and best practices for TY 2023 and beyond.

11:45 AM – 12:35 PM

The Future of Innovation

Hear from SurePrep’s Senior Applied Research Scientist about in-progress research and newly released functionality focused on integrating human like intelligence and automation into the SurePrep platform.

12:35 PM – 1:35 PM Lunch
1:40 PM – 3:10 PM

Innovation Roundtable

Moderated round table discussion by firm size for a deeper dive into the information shared at the innovation update and product roadmap general sessions including:
• Are firms serious about innovation
• How is your firm adapting through innovation & technology
1:40 PM – 3:10 PM

Solving the Capacity Puzzle Workshop

With the current talent shortage in the accounting profession, leaders must think differently about how they approach capacity. Hiring your way out of the problem is no longer an option and it requires a multi-pronged approach.  In this workshop, we will explore how automation, outsourcing and revenue replacement can help you regain capacity.  Following a quick setup on each of these topics, attendees will breakout into groups to collaborate with and learn from their peers.

3:10 PM – 3:40 PM Break
3:40 PM – 4:30 PM

Get Ready with Me: Tax Season Readiness

In this session attendees will walk through the tax season readiness checklist, gain knowledge on training options, and understand the impact of administrative settings on their workflow. Attendees will also, understand changes to proforma items in the tax software to make sure SurePrep has access to the most accurate and up-to-date information.

3:40 PM – 4:30 PM

Driving Success Through TaxCaddy

Participants can see the art of what is possible when using TaxCaddy
• Evaluate the right leverage model for your firm
• Evaluate opportunities to streamline and simplify the gather process
• Evaluate opportunities to streamline and simplify the deliver process
4:40 PM – 5:30 PM

Handling K-1s: Turn that frown around with K-1s

K-1s may be one of the drivers why returns are extended so this session will discuss firms best practices of handling K-1s. We will look at when they are received, how firms improved the prep and review process for K-1 reporting of complex and non-complex K-1s. At the conclusion, we will share insights on how the K-1 reclass capability within Leadsheets can improve the experience for firms.

4:40 PM – 5:30 PM

Dueling TaxCaddy – The Taxpayer and Firm Experience

This session is a visualization of the interactions from Tax Professional and Client Experience. Come see the interaction and collaboration between the tax professional and taxpayer in real time.

6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Special Event

Tuesday, October 24th

6:30 AM – 5:30 PM Information Desk
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Breakfast
8:00 AM – 8:50 AM

Trashing The Timesheet

During this session, attendees will hear the steps taken by one firm to eliminate time tracking and begin billing clients based on value provided. The session will cover how Lean Six Sigma principles can be used to create new processes. Attendees will get an insight of this project from the idea formation, to work sessions, to rollout, and finally to end results.

8:00 AM – 8:50 AM

Getting It Done Right From the Start

Best Practices for newer users (with less than 3 years of experience) utilizing SurePrep products to overcome hurdles with implementing new software. Listen to client testimonials from newer users on their implementation experience, what they would have liked to know before getting started and what they would have done differently.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Leveraging Leadsheets to Create Efficiencies

Have you or your firm used Leadsheets this year or been a Leadsheet users for many years? If the answer is yes to either of these, then improving your knowledge on how to best leverage Leadsheets and improving your overall knowledge of this product is the session for you! We will explore key capabilities that will improve the efficiency and quality of the preparer and reviewer.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Continuous Improvement – Workflow Workshop

Analyze your firm’s current process through the “Best Practice Lens” with the lessons shared during this session. You will learn how to evaluate opportunities for automation in your firm processes and how your firm can leverage the right people doing the right job and the right time.

Prerequisite: Come with your existing workflow for reference (PDF, Word, or Diagram)

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Solving the Capacity Puzzle Workshop

With the current talent shortage in the accounting profession, leaders must think differently about how they approach capacity. Hiring your way out of the problem is no longer an option and it requires a multi-pronged approach.  In this workshop, we will explore how automation, outsourcing and revenue replacement can help you regain capacity.  Following a quick setup on each of these topics, attendees will breakout into groups to collaborate with and learn from their peers.

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM Break
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Platinum Preparation: A Preparer Guide to SPbinder

In this course, you will learn about SPbinder, SurePrep’s workpaper management system, as well as best practices for handling documents, addressing missing items, and navigating the system as a Preparer.
• Utilize the key components of the binder, including the document reviewer, the note window and the index/review tree
• Use the various annotation tools within the binder
• Properly source and index documents
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Advancing Automation with APIs! – A Panel Discussion

Does your firm have an API strategy? Have you implemented or is your firm considering APIs to overcome end-to-end pain points through automation? During this session, gain insights from thought leaders and peers on how they have implemented SurePrep’s open ecosystem through application of APIs to their workflows.

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Lunch
1:30 PM – 2:20 PM

Keynote Speaker: Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable

In today’s fast-paced world, the speed of change is unprecedented. Join Andrew McCracken in this thought-provoking presentation where he will talk about change, and the ever-increasing pace with change that causes many of us to feel uncomfortable, and he will delve into the essential question “Why change?” Andrew will challenge you to explore the impact of change, how to embrace it, and how to become more comfortable with it. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the Change Hero within yourself and become the hero of your firm’s change story by leading a culture where change is not just accepted, it’s the norm.

2:20 PM – 2:50 PM Break
2:50 PM – 4:20 PM

Prepare to Review: A Guide to Reviewer Best Practices Using SPbinder

Elevating a Preparers path to a Reviewers journey can be daunting. This workshop will teach new and existing reviewers how to implement consistent best practices and adapt policies to improve the review process and get rid of unnecessary steps.

2:50 PM – 4:20 PM

The Wizarding World of Review Wizards

Review Wizards allows trained members of the firm to review the accuracy of the data captured by OCR and the bookmarking of clients’ source document, prior to exporting the data to your tax software and creating the SPbinder workpapers. During this session, attendees will learn tips and best practices on how to advance through the Review Wizard process efficiently, while improving the quality of the process.

4:20 PM – 4:30 PM  Closing Ceremony

*Draft Agenda Subject to Change

Keynote Speakers

 

General Sessions

  • SurePrep Roadmap
  • What’s New in AI and ML

 

Learning Sessions

Learning sessions will include product-related sessions geared towards the admin user, new user, or experienced user. Sessions will share best practices, tips and tricks as well as what’s new with SurePrep products.

 

Panel Discussions

Panel discussions will provide opportunities for attendees to hear from other users how they have transformed their tax practices using technology, how they have addressed change management, and how they have transformed the client experience.

 

Roundtables

Roundtable discussions will provide opportunities to sit and discuss with like-kind users’ success stories with how they have adopted and adapted to SurePrep technologies, and how firms have addressed challenges with adding technologies or changing technologies.

 

Networking Events

  • Cocktail reception
  • Social event
  • Networking breaks

Thomson Reuters is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional eduction on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org.

FAQ

Location & Transportation

Which airports are most convenient?

The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is 12 miles from the Sheraton Grand. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is 25 miles from the resort.

Does the hotel offer an airport shuttle to and from the airport?

The Sheraton Grand does not offer a shuttle to the airport, however, Uber and/or Lyft are excellent options.

Does the hotel provide parking?

The Sheraton Grand provides complimentary on-site parking to its guests. Valet parking is offered for $22/day.

Event Details

How much does the event cost?

Regular pricing:             Aug. 1 – Sept. 29, 2023 $949

Registration closes:      Sept. 29, 2023

Will CPE credits be issued?

Yes, CPE will be issued for attendance at Transform.

Field of Study: Technology
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Delivery Method: Group Live
Number of Credits: 10-16
Knowledge Level: Basic

Does registration include accommodations and/or travel?

No, however, attendees may reserve rooms at discounted rates in our block by clicking here. Airfare and/or other travel arrangements are the responsibility of attendees.

May I arrive earlier and/or depart later than the dates of the event?

Our venue has generously allowed us to offer discounted room rates using our registration link. Should you choose to stay for a longer period of time, please inquire with the hotel directly regarding pricing. They may be reached at +1 602-225-0100.

Are meals included in the price of registration?

Absolutely! Your registration cost will include the following dining experiences during the conference:

Sunday:     Hors d’oeuvres and Cocktails (Welcome Reception)

Monday:     Breakfast, Mid-Morning Refreshment, Lunch, Dinner

Tuesday:     Breakfast, Mid-Morning Refreshment, Lunch

Please see the agenda for more information.

Will I receive updates to the agenda?

Attendees will receive updates and important information via the email provided at the time of registration. Should you need to change the email provided, please contact Cathy Foley via email.

Will I receive a recording of all the sessions?

Session recordings (where available) and/or other presentation materials will be shared with attendees following the event.

What is the dress code for the event?

Business or business casual attire is appropriate for both the conference sessions and the social events. We recommend that attendees dress for desert climate, with a light sweater for any potentially chilly hotel meeting rooms. 

Is there an event app for SurePrep Transform?

Yes, access to the app is planned for early September.

What is the complaint resolution policy?

For more information regarding administrative policies such as complaints, please contact Dawn Theisen at 800-805-8582.

What is the refund policy?

Cancellations before September 22, 2023 will receive a full refund of their registration fees. In addition, if the event is canceled for any reason, all attendees will receive a full refund.

Amenities & Activities

What is the weather like in Phoenix in October?

The forecast indicates the average daily high is 93 degrees, while the average low is 73 degrees.

Is a golf outing part of the agenda?
The agenda for SurePrep Transform 2023 is coming soon. However, the Sheraton Grand has a golf course on-site. You can find information on golfing at the resort here.
Is the hotel pet friendly?

Pets are not allowed at the Sheraton Grand. Only service animals are permitted. Please see the Sheraton Grand’s page for additional information regarding pet policies.

Does the hotel offer ADA accommodations?

Yes. For specific information on the resort’s accessibility, visit their rooms page.

For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +1 602-225-0100

Is there a spa at the hotel?

Yes, the hotel offers the Aji Spa & Salon. please see their spa page for more information and to make reservations.

What are some notable attractions in the area?

Please see Location for information about Phoenix, Arizona, and its surroundings.

Questions about the Event?

Send us a message.

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