On November 20, 2023, we previously reported to you, that Intuit was launching multiple revisions to the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Program. Based on research and focus group participation, Intuit developed a alternate view of the ProAdvisor Program from that held for the prior 25 years.
The alternative view reflected the following parameters:
- The average firm size engaged with the ProAdvisor Program is larger (in other words, not nearly as many solo or small firms).
- The ProAdvisor Program’s certification emphasis no longer challenged or motivated accounting professionals/firms, and
- The significance (meaning) of being a ProAdvisor had been lost.
Based on that alternative view, Intuit 'reimagined' the ProAdvisor Program and implemented changes (on 11/20/23) intended to add value for many ProAdvisors by offering 20+ additions/changes to the benefits received. New tier thresholds and additional point-earning opportunities were intended to increase the durability and exclusivity of ProAdvisors accompanied by New Badges designed to recognize those changes.
To allow for a timely transition, Intuit implemented a "launch grace period" designed to provide ProAdvisors with time to adjust to the changes in 'tier requirements', 'point system allocations' and the related benefits.
While some ProAdvisors may receive additional benefits and maintain their current tiers within the program, some ProAdvisors may realize decreased benefits, including loss of their Find-a-ProAdvisor listing.
ProAdvisors need to be aware that implementation of the New ProAdvisor Program 'Tier' requirements are scheduled for February 18, 2024. At that time ProAdvisor tier status (along with the related-benefits) will be realigned to the new tier requirements.
As I mentioned above, some ProAdvisors could loose 'Find-a ProAdvisor' Directory listings. Going forward, 'certification' as a ProAdvisor (at any level) will no longer grant eligibility for listing in the FAP Directory. ProAdvisors must have attained the 'Gold' tier status to be eligible for the Find-a-ProAdvisor listing.
In addition, because the 'Gold Tier' point requirement was raised from 200 to 500 points, more than double the number of prior points required, many ProAdvisors could be impacted by the change.
ProAdvisors, at least those reading Insightful Accountant, are not silent on these changes. Some of the comments reflected during the January QB Talks when ProAdvisors were asked to speak out on these issues indicate various viewpoints. When asked what they thought about the change in Tier Point Requirements, some of the comments included:
- Looks like they value quantity over quality...
- Additional tiers would have been fine... instead of reducing peoples status...
- How is a Sole Practice ever going to earn 7000 points...
- I will actually have more points than before...
- As a 25 year ProAdvisor who will loose Elite, it is an insult.
- I'm not getting credit for payment referrals or products sold under the ISP program.
- Years of expertise in both products mean nothing
- Working for a larger firm may get you more points, but doesn't reflect your own abilities
- I'm being penalized for not 'selling' Intuit products to my clients
- The good news is they have made Elite support available to everyone with Gold or higher tier status, and that's important.
- It would be great if they gave more point (opportunities) for Desktop ProAdvisors.
One of Intuit's publications on the changes the Program indicated that "one of the fastest ways to move from Silver to Gold is to have at least one team member pass the online certification exams (QuickBooks Online, Advanced QuickBooks Online, and QuickBooks Online Payroll). By passing these exams, you will earn 500 points and advance to the Gold Tier."
When asked what they thought about the ability of one ProAdvisor who passed the certification exams changing the 'tier level' for all team members, a few of the ProAdvisors had questions and comments:
- So a ProAdvisor leaving one accounting firm and joining ours means we get credit for their certifications toward our tier status?
- Intuit should be 'grandfathering' the existing tier status of ProAdvisors!
- Are they saying that when one team member earns Advanced ProAdvisor Certification, that every team member receives the tier points for that certification?
- Someone could be part of a team and look good (in the tier standings) without having the knowledge...
- How about differentiating between firms and individual ProAdvisors?
When asked how they felt about the change in the requirements for a ProAdvisor to be listed in the Find-a-ProAdvisor Directory, some of the comments from ProAdvisors in January's ProAdvisor Meet-up said:
- I'm legitimately feeling disrespected...
- I think it stinks...
- Part of the reason they did this is because literally thousands of people with free ProAdvisor accounts were able to pass the basic certification and get listed on the Find-a-ProAdvisor directory. By raising the requirement to the Gold tier, they thin the listing to people who have the expertise.
- Intuit is penalizing those of us who use and support Desktop... we must learn and test on Online even though we don't use or support it.
- I rely on the Find-a-ProAdvisor director to obtain new business in my geographical area.
While Insightful Accountant will be sharing ProAdvisor comments made in both the January webinar as well as in the comments to related articles, we want you to know that Intuit did establish a unique feedback website where you can comment on every aspect of the 'Reimagined ProAdvisor Program.' We encourage you to do so.
We also want to remind you that you have almost two weeks between now and the February 18, 2024 date to review the point system, determine the most advantageous method to elevate your tier standing, and get the points you need to support your status as a QuickBooks ProAdvisor.
For more details upon the 'Reimagined ProAdvisor Program' check out the following official Intuit publications:
- The Firm of the Future article titled Intuit loves firms and ProAdvisors: Reimagined ProAdvisor Program marks the start of a new era.
- Another Firm of the Future article titled The Reimagined ProAdvisor Program: A Comprehensive Guide to New Tiers, Points, and Enhanced Benefits.
- And still one more Firm of the Future resource titled Frequently Asked Questions on the Reimagined ProAdvisor Program: For you, by you.
It's clear that the ProAdvisors participating in the January QB Talks had a variety of opinions, feelings and questions in regard to the Reimagined ProAdvisor Program. But those participating in January's webinar are not the only ProAdvisors reading Insightful Accountant.
That's why we want to know your responses to the same questions:
- What do you think about the changes in Tier Point Requirements, Tier Point earning options, and Tier Related Benefits?
- How do you feel about every ProAdvisor in a firm sharing the 'tier points' of other ProAdvisors, such that one ProAdvisor passing exams could change a tier category for every ProAdvisor in the firm?
- How do you feel about the change in the requirements for a ProAdvisor to be listed in the Find-a-ProAdvisor Directory
Let us know what you think by writing a comment to this article.
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