Allen Berger is a partner with Blackman Kallick Bartelstein, LLP. Allen specializes in manufacturing, cost accounting, cost modeling, activity-based costing and related projection preparation.Allen began his career with Blackman Kallick in 1968 and has been a partner in the firm since 1973. He received his B.S. from Chicago's Roosevelt University and did his postgraduate work at DePaul University.Allen is a member of the firm's management committee and is the author of "The Businessman's Guide to Management and Profitability," along with many articles on financial management and cost containment. In addition to the specialized experience Allen brings to each client, he offers specific expertise which includes, but is not limited to, the following:Accounting Developed and implemented job cost systems by product, work center and department. Installed productivity performance standards that have been used for piece part and department bonus calculation. Developed flexible budgeting models to help calculate "what if" questions regarding all phases of manufacturing. Systems Installed activity-based costing systems to better understand and allocate cost of nonvalue-added activities (design, engineering, material handling, quality control, etc.). Work Flow Coordinated accounting data to assist in production operations (e.g., scheduling machine utilizations, setting manufacturing capacity and freeze point considerations). Allen also lectures frequently for the University of Illinois, University of Wisconsin, the Precision Metalforming Association, the Spring Manufacturers Institute, National Machining and Tooling Association, the Tooling and Manufacturing Association, the Illinois CPA Society, the American Metal Stamping Association, the President's Forum and the Young Presidents Organization. Allen is a member of the Illinois CPA Society and the AICPA.