It is interesting – and indeed, positive – that my recent blog on the ICAEW Cloud Conference held on Friday 24th September caused such debate. Debate is good – especially when it is of a positive nature. I don’t wish to prolong the debate – or defend my position – but I thought it worthwhile just to clarify one or two points which might have got a bit lost in the telling.

Firstly, I reiterate my praise for the Institute and all those involved for putting on the conference in the first place. It was long overdue and the ICAEW were right to include it in their conference programme. That I did not agree with some of the content was my own personal preference and if, as would seem from the various comments, many of the attendees took something positive from the Conference then so much the better.

On a further point of clarification, contrary to some of the comments made, I do not speak on behalf of any particular vendor. My comments are based on a passionate belief in the topic and a conviction that it is the correct step for business and accounting practices. I do have my own personal preference as regards online accounting software but that has nothing to do with my comments or arguments in favour of the cloud.

As I said at the start of this piece, debate is good – and what was most refreshing is that there has been none of the old FUD type arguments raised – very much a step in the right direction. And as a final point, if Dennis Howlett can cut of his ponytail and wear a suit, all is right with the world!