Better, faster, smarter: developing a blueprint for creating forensic accountants

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this article, which is based on author's study, is to highlight the essential attributes of forensic accountants and to construct the forensic accountant “blueprint” as a reference for forensic accounting education and training. Design/methodology/approach – This study uses primary and secondary data on forensic accounting profession in Indonesia and the USA. Such data were collected by means of literature reviews, in-depth interviews, and a focus group discussion with a number of forensic accounting professionals in Indonesia and the USA. Findings – The author establishes that the “problem-based” nature of forensic accounting requires a unique approach in producing forensic accountants compared to ordinary accountants. The essential attributes that a forensic accountant needs to possess are mentality, method, and experience. “Mentality” consists of elements such as ability to differentiate the right from the wrong, courage to stand up for what is right, ability to withstand pressures from the works, and puzzle solving mindsets. “Methods” refer to the understanding of the fraud investigation process such as fraud detection, evidences, investigation methods, and investigation report. “Experience” as the third attribute is gained primarily through involvement in fraud investigation process in which a forensic accountant utilizes his or her knowledge previously acquired through education and training. Research limitations/implications – Forensic accounting is a problem oriented skill that may differ across countries. Due to the time and financial resource constraint, this study is limited only on two countries and a small number of respondents. For future study, more countries and respondents should be included in analysis to gain a more complete picture on what constitute a forensic accountant. Practical implications – The results of this study contribute to the development of human resource in the forensic accounting profession. More specifically, they serve as a reference in the development of curriculum for forensic accounting education and training especially in Indonesia. Originality/value – This paper sees forensic accountant skill development from the “demand” point of view by highlighting what that the profession expects from a forensic accountant.