Lost in the Crowd

In your article “ Found in Translation ” (Feb. 2007, p. 38), Exhibit 5 titled “CPA Firm Networks and Alliances” was trying to show some of the larger networks and alliances. I saw that my organization, Moore Stephens International Limited (MSIL), was left off the list. MSIL is the 11th largest accounting firm association in the world, according to the International Accounting Bulletin.

Other than RSM McGladrey Network, Baker Tilly International and Moores Rowland International, MSIL is larger than all others on the list. In fact, other than RSM, MSIL has more offices worldwide than the others on the list.

Steven E. Sacks, CPA
New York City

Sacks is the Executive Director of Moore Stephens
North America, Inc., and an Editorial Adviser to the JofA.

Author’s reply: Our intention was to make smaller CPA firms aware that a broad spectrum of networks and alliances exists and can help them with their international issues. Dr. (Donald L.) Kyle and I have taught CPE courses for the Texas Society and IMA and continue to meet CPAs from small firms who are not aware of the opportunities that organizations like yours provide.

Please believe that there was no intention on our part to specifically exclude anyone. I would love to see a follow-up article that discusses how the current alliances and networks are helping small firms with many of the issues they face. I am aware that these resources allow smaller CPA firms to retain clients as globalization increasingly affects everyone.

I appreciate your interest in our article and hope that you benefit from more CPAs becoming aware of the existence of your type of organization.

Susan Sorensen, CPA, Ph.D.
Houston