| Concept | 1999 Proposal | 1995 Proposal |
| Relationship to SSARS no. 1 | Replaces SSARS no. 1 by providing for two types of compilations: a compilation with a report and a compilation with another form of communication in certain situations. | Created an exemption from SSARS no. 1. |
| Performance standards | Provides that all compilations are still subject to the performance standards in SSARS no. 1. | Provided no performance standards. |
| Communication | Contains both reporting standards and communication standards. | Required an engagement letter; transmittal letter was optional. |
| Level of service | Provides only three levels of service: audit, review and compilation. | Created a fourth level of service: audit, review, compilation and assembly. |
| Restricted parties | Uses a “definition by exception”—third parties are all parties except for certain considered unclear. | Used the term “internal-use,” which was members of management. |
| Nonindependence | Requires disclosure in the chosen communication. | Required no disclosure. |
