A CSPM is a uniquely qualified professional who uses his knowledge of historical business measurements to help companies make better decisions. In addition to mastering a number of tools and methodologies, the CSPM is also trained in communicating concepts so that they are relevant to business managers. Accountants who seek this designation are driven to provide superior customer service and want to help their clients avoid and plan for potential difficulties, rather than just accurately report on them once they occur.

You will find that the practitioners who have reached out to achieve this designation are among the most visible in the profession as they are firm believers in the value of the skills they possess. They might even look and sound different from others in the profession due to their excitement in offering these unique services.

Where might you find a CSPM?

You can read about them here:

• Edi Osborne's words can be found in the book she co-authored called "Driving Your Company's Value: Strategic Benchmarking for Value".
• Bob Staiger is interviewed by the Daily Bulletin and talks about his firm's Measure of Excellence Program and Swenson University.
• On WebCPA.com you can read about Tim Tikalsky in an article called "Taking Data Apart" by Robert Scott.
• You can also read about John Nix, a partner with Bates Carter & Company in article called " Software That Makes You Smarter".
• Read about Geni Whitehouse in an article called " Women may be Leaving Tech, but These Twelve Stand Out".
• Caroline Beaudroux helped author this article "Private Companies Hop Aboard the EBR train"

You might spot them in attendance or presenting at some of the profession's leading events:

• AICPA Technology Conference, Austin,TX June 12-14, 2006

Or they might be participating in committees or charitable organizations like these:

• AICPA Private Company EBR Task Force