With most of 2005 behind us the focus on year end planning is at its seasonal high. As we met with clients to discuss their third quarter results we found promising numbers and solid profit expectations for 2005. Without multiple hurricanes crossing the state the fall season looks more promising than last year.

We encourage all of our clients to go into December with three questions answered.

1. What is my expected profit for the year?
2. What is my expected tax liability for the year?
3. Is there anything I can do in the next 30 days to increase profits and, if possible, decrease taxes?

The deadline for answering these questions is quickly approaching so if you need help getting answers now is the time to get on the calendar with your tax professional (hint-hint).

In the October 24th issue of Business Week Bruce Nussbaum had an interesting review of Tom Kelley's book "The Ten Faces of Innovation" (Currency/Doubleday). It was interesting enough, in fact, that I made a trip to Amazon and ponied up twenty bucks to take a look for myself (buy here).

Kelley is general manager at IDEO, one of the largest design consulting firms in the world. IDEO has designed some of the most recognizable devices of the last generation (Apple's original computer mouse, for instance).

I know, most of you are thinking innovation and CPA's have about as much in common as fish and bicycles. But you would be surprised at the range and complexity of of our clients' businesses. One area I found particularly interesting (and it caught Nussbaum's attention too) was Kelley's harping on those who play 'devil's advocate.' I am a strong supporter of the devil's advocate model for uncovering weaknesses and holes in business plans, but Kelley makes the point that such thinking runs contrary to the innovative spirit.

Kelley reminds us that operationally a devil's advocate can be important before committing resources and capital to an unproven product or process. However, when trying to foster creativity that same attitude can throw a wet blanket over new and potentially profitable ideas.

If you need another book for your non-fiction stack Kelley's read has enough anecdotes to remain interesting but it's real value is the number of new ideas you'll come up with for bringing innovation to your office, workshop or sales floor.