The impact and adoption of emerging technologies on accounting: perceptions of Canadian companies

What is it about?

This research focuses on the five most relevant and discursive emerging technologies in accounting (cloud computing, big data and data analytics, blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics process automation RPA). It investigates the adoption and use of these technologies based on data collected from accounting professionals in a technology-developed country-Canada, through a survey. This study applies the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework and examines the influence of significant and most commonly known factors on firms’ intention to adopt the said emerging technologies. Study results indicate that Canadian accounting professionals' self-assessed knowledge (about these emerging technologies) is more theoretical than operational. Cloud computing is highly used by Canadian firms, while the use of other technologies, particularly blockchain and RPA, is reportedly low. However, firms' intention about the future adoption of these technologies seems positive. Study results reveal that only the relative advantage and top management commitment are found to be significant considerations influencing the adoption intention. Study findings confirm some results presented in earlier studies but provide additional insights from a new perspective, that of accounting professionals in Canada. They provide insights into these technologies' actual adoption and improve the awareness of firms and stakeholders to the effect of some constructs that influence the adoption of these emerging technologies

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