For example, a network's brochures demonstrating how members leverage their expanded resources can be handed out to potential clients. Subgroups of associations based on a service niche or firm size can hold separate, more focused meetings to exchange information. CPA firms in the association that perform peer reviews or that need peer reviews can work with member firms. Public relations assistance. By pooling member resources, a network can retain a public relations agency to issue press releases and inform the business community of the association, its members and the benefits they offer clients.
Members refer clients to other firms in the network when possible.
Many associations that present seminars in specialties such as tax planning, tax administration or marketing also offer CPE credit. Some networks share useful material from technical manuals, such as a due-diligence checklist, with all of the member firms. Some associations obtain discounts on books, services and new technology. Members can use the site as a marketing tool that explains the network's goals and benefits. It also is a good tool for internal postings of information, such as bulletin boards members can refer to for updates, conference information and referral opportunities.