Abstract
PurposeThe aim of this paper is to determine the influence of knowledge and use of accounting software among small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) in Oman.Design/methodology/approachThis study has used qualitative approach. Further, the paper elucidated the significance of knowledge of accounting software and evaluated the relationship between knowledge and its adoption or use of accounting software among SMEs in Oman. Purposive sampling method was used to choose the target interviewees required for the survey (semi-structured interview). This method has been applied by selected accountants who work in SMEs in Oman. Based on practical experience and basic knowledge in the field of accounting, a total of six members are selected as the sample size for the study.FindingsThe findings revealed that the knowledge of accounting software has a significant effect on the use of accounting software, meaning that there is significant and positive relationship among the knowledge of generalized accounting software and the use of such generalized or customized accounting software by SMEs in Oman. In addition, this research shows the empirical evidence of knowledge of accounting software effects on the adoption or use of accounting software among SMEs in OmanPractical implicationsThe study has brought about a new discussion on the importance of information communication technology (ICT) knowledge and use or adoption of accounting software by SMEs for accounting literature. Further, this study emphasizes the usage and benefits of accounting software by accountants in various SMEs. Further, it would be useful to suggest that SMEs and such other types of organizations adopt customized or generalized accounting software that will enhance the practice among accounting professionals.Originality/valueThis paper contributes both theoretical and practical knowledge of accounting in accountants using generalized or customized accounting software and its relationship with accountant in various SMEs or such other organizations; it is an approach that is not widely discussed in the previous studies. Besides, conducting such study in the field of SMEs gives novelty in the literature between SMEs and developing economies. This has discussed the weakness of accountant in implementing accounting software in the organization.
Highlights
Current professional accountants use a wide range of computer applications to perform their day-to-day operational work (Do et al, 2020; Blankley et al, 2019; Boulianne, 2014)
Most of the respondents agreed that the aspects, namely, theoretical and practical knowledge of accounting software and knowledge of using accounting software such as Tally/ Quick Books/ Peachtree/ enterprise resource plan (ERP)/ Generalized accounting software/ Excel/ and so forth among accounting professionals of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Oman were considered as vital contributors which lead to practical use of accounting software among SMES in Oman
This result is supported by Oduro (2020), Pillay (2016), who claim that lack of practical knowledge and unable to experience the potential benefits of latest technology and strategies to support and boost SMEs in achieving their business operational objectives is the major barrier to Information communication technology (ICT) adoption
Summary
Current professional accountants use a wide range of computer applications to perform their day-to-day operational work (Do et al, 2020; Blankley et al, 2019; Boulianne, 2014). The enhanced use of accounting software has changed the accounting process, which involves transactional entry, data storage and preparation of financial statements and related information, and has an impact on the decisions of stakeholders who use financial statements for various purpose. This is useful for internal control systems employed by the entity (Turner et al, 2020; Senft et al, 2016). Lack of use and knowledge of accounting software leads to continued manual accounting that may be very hard for business owners, especially SMEs, to monitor financial health of their businesses.
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