When it comes to accounting-related lists, they are great promotional vehicles for those that make them. But these are rarely created by users or fans of the things they utilize, and this is one key reason why the Accounting Bracket Challenge is different.
Brought to you by the good folks at Accounting High, the “ABC Tournament,” as it’s affectionately known, now enters its sophomore year. What is this contest, you ask, and why should we care about it? Allow me to explain:
In true “March Madness” form, the ABC Tournament is a bracket contest that begins in March, but instead of college basketball teams, it features personal favorite accounting apps, podcasts, community sites, and educational platforms. Nomination for bracket contenders begins February 18 and runs through March 9. Then, the fun begins…
Once the categories and nominees are set, live voting begins on the Accounting High YouTube channel. The first round of votes starts on March 18 and runs through March 21st, when votes are tallied to help advance each nominee. All votes are placed by You, the accounting public, and are then tallied and reported by Accounting High janitor Scott Scarano, EA and staff. To participate, all you need to do is register at the Accounting High contest website, which also has the full schedule for the contest.
Last year’s contest was so fun, even nominees engaged in social media “trash talking,” and support for the event was through the roof. This year, with more awareness and buzz from the prior contest, promises more of the same.
Take a look at the full bracket from 2023, which saw pre-accounting app maker Uncat take it all.
As I said at the outset, the core purpose of lists and contests of any nature in this space is about awareness. Accountants don’t know what they don’t know, and the simple act of seeing names in a category of importance to them is enough to move the needle for the product or platform, and the profession as a whole.
Moreover, this is no affront to other useful lists that exist in accounting, but the fact that a contest such as this exists and is largely generated by the community it serves lends a level of credibility few can match. So, what are you waiting for? Register and start nominating your favorites. And who knows? You could win a variety of prizes, too!