Evaluation of Computer Technology in the Enhancement of Accounting Information in Nigeria Public Sector
CHAPTER ONE
Objectives of the study
The research work, the impact of computer technology in the enhancement of accounting information in the Nigerian public sectors has the following objectives by the researcher.
- The study will try to evaluate the effects of computer technology in accounting information.
- To determine how computer technology lead to the enhancement of accounting information in the public sector.
- To evaluate the importance of computerized accounting over manual accounting information.
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction
Chang (2001) asserts that accounting information plays a significant role in enhancing organizational effectiveness in a global competitive environment. Doms, Jarmin and Klimek (2004) say that financial statements still remain the most important source of externally feasible information on companies. In spite of their widespread use and continuing advance, there is some concern that accounting practice has not kept pace with rapid economic and high technology changes which invariably affects the value relevance of accounting information. The importance of Chang’s assertion is reinforced by massive accounting fraud in developed countries especially United States of America (USA), rapidly changing business environment and reports by some researchers that value relevance of accounting information has declined. However, a number of researchers claim that accounting information has not lost its value relevance. Borthick and Clark (1990) believe that accounting exists because it satisfies a need – primarily a need for information. In order to be relevant, accounting data must among others, be quick to respond to users’ (particularly the investors) needs. Generally, investors are not in a situation to directly access the performance of companies in which they intend to invest. They usually depend on financial reports prepared by the management of such organizations. Financial report is one of the best sources of accounting information about a company. Financial reporting is an essential part of disclosure and helps investor to discover investment opportunities. The primary purpose of financial statements is to provide information concerning the financial situation of the company, its operational results, any changes of control in the company and cash flow.
The Evolution of Public Sector Accounting
Public sector accounting is a vast area with substantial literature written by various scholars. The literature ranges from accounting practices in the governmental business to central and decentralized government levels. The literature is contributed to by both academics as well as practitioners in both developed and developing countries. About a generation ago, the only tools accountants used were a hand manual calculator, a columnar pad and a sharp pencil.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
POPULATION OF THE STUDY
According to Udoyen (2019), a study population is a group of elements or individuals as the case may be, who share similar characteristics. These similar features can include location, gender, age, sex or specific interest. The emphasis on study population is that it constitutes of individuals or elements that are homogeneous in description.
This study was carried to examine evaluation of computer technology in the enhancement of accounting information in Nigeria public sector. Ministry of finance , Enugu state forms the population of the study.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
TEST OF HYPOTHESIS
Hypothesis one
Ho: Computer technology does not have any effect on accounting information.
H1: Computer technology have effect on accounting information.
Hypothesis two
Ho: Computer technology leads to no enhancement of accounting information in the public sector.
H1: Computer technology leads to the enhancement of accounting information in the public sector.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain evaluation of computer technology in the enhancement of accounting information in Nigeria. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing the challenges of computer technology in the enhancement of accounting information in Nigeria
Summary
This study was on evaluation of computer technology in the enhancement of accounting information in Nigeria. Three objectives were raised which included; The study will try to evaluate the effects of computer technology in accounting information, to determine how computer technology lead to the enhancement of accounting information in the public sector and to evaluate the importance of computerized accounting over manual accounting information. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from ministry of finance, Enugu. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
Notwithstanding the benefits of implementing technology in Public Sector, there are number of challenges facing the implementation which are summarized below this as reveal during interaction with public entities stakeholders through interview, focused group discussion, as well as field observation.
Recommendation
Having identified the major challenges under this study, the following recommendations are made to facilitate the use of technology to enhance effective public sector accounting in Nigeria
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