Digitization and Financial Reporting – How Technology Innovation May Drive the Shift toward Continuous Accounting

Abstract

Technological forces, including but not limited to blockchain and artificial intelligence platforms, are driving change not only in the accounting profession, but business at large. In a business environment where data is produced nearly continuously, and stakeholder groups expect an increasing variety of information, current accounting processes do not appear sufficient. This research examines and applies current market forces, linked to both technology, including an analysis of both blockchain and artificial intelligence, and the increased influence of stakeholders on the reporting process, to do the following. First, an analysis of items to consider and review as the shift toward more continuous accounting and reporting begins is postulated. Second, and arguably more important for the combined practitioner and academic audience this research is intended for, implications and applications of more continuous accounting are put forth to assist as individuals and organizations embrace this transformative process.