The impact of advancing technologies on the requirement for a human workforce in accounting

Victoria McKinlay, Julia A. Smith

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter

Abstract

The development of technology over recent years has created concern surrounding the future need for a human workforce. This chapter explores the impact artificial intelligence has had on the accountancy profession. We assess the awareness of individuals within the industry, using an interpretive approach, in order to gain a better understanding of the future for accounting professionals. The study uses a questionnaire to gain insight into the opinions of professionals within the industry and their thoughts on artificial intelligence and advancing technologies. It utilises narrative analysis to conclude that the leading factor of the adoption of technology and artificial intelligence within the industry is thought to be increased efficiency. While automation can work longer and faster than humans, it does not yet have the capabilities to make fair and justified judgements and, for this reason, we conclude that, currently, the human workforce still has the advantage.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationResearch Handbook on Accounting and Information Systems
EditorsJulia A. Smith
Place of PublicationCheltenham
Chapter17
Pages288-308
Number of pages21
ISBN (Electronic)9781802200621
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 20 Feb 2024

Publication series

NameResearch Handbooks on Accounting
PublisherEdward Elgar Publishing Limited

Keywords

  • artificial intelligence (AI)
  • advancing technologies
  • accounting profession
  • work and labour
  • efficiency
  • qualitative research

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  • SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

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  • Accounting and information systems

    Smith, J. A., 20 Feb 2024, Research Handbook on Accounting and Information Systems . Smith, J. A. (ed.). Cheltenham, p. 2-17 16 p. (Research Handbooks on Accounting).

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter

  • Research Handbook on Accounting and Information Systems

    Smith, J. (Editor), 20 Feb 2024, Cheltenham. 334 p. (Research Handbooks in Accounting)

    Research output: Book/Report › Book

  • The role of artificial intelligence in accounting

    Skidmore, A. & Smith, J. A., 20 Feb 2024, Research Handbook on Accounting and Information Systems. Cheltenham, p. 250-264 15 p. (Research Handbooks on Accounting).

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter

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