ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Information and Accounting Functions What is the function of contemporary accountants? What is an accounting information system (AIS)? Changes in technology have altered the role of accountants. Traditionally, AIS has had its own set of specific functions and has relied on its own devices, such as journals and ledgers, and its own procedures, double-entry bookkeeping. Accounting developed, maintained, and operated the AIS independently of other business functions. Accountants were narrowly focused on the production and …

…with whether systems function properly and risks associated with the collection and processing of data. Auditors must examine the controls associated with information systems and determine whether the controls can be relied on in determining whether information is reliable. These audits involve assessing where errors may occur in systems and whether controls exist to prevent, detect, and correct errors. An organization's computer system and information systems function are a major focus of the audit process.