Case study: Achieving operational excellence with CCH® ProSystem fx® Tax and the CCH Axcess™ suite

Choosing CCH ProSystem fx Tax 

Andy Presti, a partner at the firm, recalls choosing CCH ProSystem fx Tax 20-25 years ago, describing it as the "Cadillac of the industry." He states, "I still see it as the Cadillac of the industry from an accuracy perspective and thoroughness perspective." The firm has relied on this software to ensure reliable tax compliance, confident that the results are accurate. Andy mentions, "It's that comfort that, well, if that's what ProSystem said is the result, that must be the result."

The firm's tax processes vary between business and individual tax returns. The business tax process typically starts with the client's internal accounting system, such as QuickBooks. Andy explains, "We'll definitely get our hands on their QuickBooks file, and everything starts from there." This ensures accurate trial balances and balance sheets.

The individual tax process is more document-driven. Clients upload their documents to CCH Axcess Portal, which are then processed using CCH ProSystem fx Scan with AutoFlow. Andy describes, "They then go into Document… go through the Scan and Autoflow process... and it's off to the prep and review process."

A hybrid approach to technology adoption

Presti & Naegele transitioned to CCH Axcess Practice about seven to eight years ago, finding it to be a superior product. The firm has since added various modules, including Document, Workstream, and Portal, enhancing their overall efficiency. Andy notes, "We just kept adding modules as we went along."

Using CCH ProSystem fx Tax on-premise with CCH Axcess in the cloud has not presented any problems for the firm. The seamless management of tax returns, firm management, and document handling has allowed the firm to grow and manage its operations effectively. Andy emphasizes, "Workstream, with its process, its work steps, its statuses... has been critical. I don't know how you would manage a multi-member firm without something like Workstream."

Managing growth and staffing challenges 

Over the past decade, Presti & Naegele has expanded significantly, adding 20-30 employees. The implementation of Workstream has been a game-changer, providing better insights into return statuses and staff utilization. Andy shares, "We've expanded it every year, added more statuses. So a better insight as to where the returns are." 

The firm has also embraced remote work, hiring staff from across the country, facilitated by their robust firm management software. Andy highlights, "We've hired across the country, which was new. We never did that ten years ago."

Achieving growth and efficiency through integrated solutions