Impact of Computer Technology on Accounting System: An Armco Study

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AI Summary
This project examines the impact of computer technology on accounting systems, focusing on its effects on employment at Armco, a global packaging company in Melbourne. It begins with an introduction to accounting and the transformative role of technology, particularly automation, in modernizing accounting practices. The research objectives include assessing the specific impacts of computer technology on accounting systems, exploring its influence on employment within the accounting profession, and identifying factors that limit the adoption of technology in this field. The methodology involves a descriptive survey and a mixed-methods approach, utilizing questionnaires and secondary data from literature reviews and company documents to gather insights from a sample of 100 employees in Armco's finance department. Data analysis will be conducted using SPSS, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics to address the research questions and objectives. The study also considers ethical issues related to data collection and participant privacy.
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Impact of Computer Technology in Accounting System and Its Effects on Employment: A
Case Study of Armco, Melbourne.
by
Course:
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University:
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Date:
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Technological advancements have led to the transformation of most of the companies across
all sectors, more so in the accounting sector. The significant changes include the automation
of audit tasks through the use of audit software which has replaced IT for labor and
transformed the framework of audit groups. The lead time required by the accountants to
prepare and present financial information to the executive and shareholders has been reduced
through the IT networks and computer systems. The objective of this study is to examine the
impact of computer technology on the accounting system and its effects on employment with
a particular focus on Armco Company in Melbourne, Australia. This paper aims at examining
the specific impacts of computer technology on the accounting system, the impacts of
computer technology on employment in the accounting profession, and the factors that limit
the implementation of computer technology in the accounting profession. To accomplish the
study objective, this study will adopt a descriptive survey. Also, a mixed approach will be
used to collect data from across section of the target population. The researcher will use a
case study approach to acquire a comprehensive insight. The target population for the study
will be 130 employees in the finance department. The sample size will be 100 employees.
Stratified sampling technique is to be used to determine the sample and random sampling to
be used to select samples from each group. The study is to collect both primary and
secondary data. Structured questionnaires are to be used to collect primary data, and the
responses measured using a Likert scale. Secondary data is to be obtained from literature
review and relevant company documents. Data is to be run in SPSS and analyzed using both
descriptive and inferential statistics.
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Table of Contents
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION........................................................................................5
1.1 Background Information..................................................................................................5
1.2 Amcor Company..............................................................................................................6
1.3 Structure of the Proposal..................................................................................................6
CHAPTER TWO: RESEARCH PROBLEM AND RESEARCH OBJECTIVES....................8
2.1 Research Problem.............................................................................................................8
2.2 Research Objective...........................................................................................................8
2.3 Research Question............................................................................................................9
CHAPTER THREE: LITERATURE REVIEW......................................................................10
3.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................10
3.2 Definition of information technology.............................................................................10
3.2.1 Information Technology..........................................................................................10
3.2.2 Computer Technology.............................................................................................10
3.3 Impact of IT on an accounting system...........................................................................11
3.3.1 Competitive Advantage...........................................................................................11
3.3.2 Accounting software................................................................................................11
3.3.3 Security....................................................................................................................11
3.3.4 Efficiency.................................................................................................................12
3.3.5 Speed........................................................................................................................12
3.3.6 Accuracy..................................................................................................................12
3.3.7 Enhanced internal and external reporting................................................................12
3.3.8 Flexibility.................................................................................................................13
3.4 Impact of computer technology on employment in the field of accounting...................13
3.4.1 Efficient and More Connected Workforce in the World.........................................13
3.4.2 Accessibility to resources........................................................................................13
3.4.3 Improved Social Association...................................................................................14
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3.4.4 Enhanced Comprehension of Market Conditions, Planning, and Risks..................14
3.4.5 Easy of Payment Systems........................................................................................14
3.4.6 Reduced Risks..........................................................................................................15
3.5 Factors limiting the use of technology in the accounting field......................................15
3.5.1 Technology, Organization, and Environment (TOE) Model...................................15
SFigure 3.1 Conceptual Framework of the TOE Model..........................................................17
CHAPTER FOUR: RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY...................................18
4.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................18
4.2 Research Design.............................................................................................................18
4.3 Target Population...........................................................................................................18
4.4 Sampling Design and Sample Size.................................................................................18
4.5 Data Collection Methods................................................................................................19
4.5.1Primary Data.............................................................................................................20
4.5.2 Secondary Data........................................................................................................20
4.6 Procedure of Data Collection.........................................................................................20
4.7 Data Analysis and Presentation......................................................................................21
4.8 Ethical Issues..................................................................................................................21
References................................................................................................................................22
Appendices...............................................................................................................................28
Appendix 1: Ethical Approval Form....................................................................................28
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CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background Information
Accounting is the system an organization uses to measure its financial performance by
recording and grouping all the transactions such as assets, liabilities, purchases, and sales in
accordance to the accepted standard layouts (Zimmerman and Yahya-Zadeh, 2011). It assists
in assessing a firm’s past performance, current condition, and future expectations.
Accounting can formally be defined as the art of recording, classifying, and summarizing
essential transactions and activities which are to some extent monetary and inferring the
outcomes thereof (Weygandt et al., 2010). Technological advancements have led to the
transformation of most of the companies in professional services sectors, especially those in
the public accounting sector. The significant changes include the automation of audit tasks
through the use of audit software which has replaced IT for labor and transformed the
framework of audit groups (Cordella and Iannacci, 2010).
Business operations have generally been transformed by computers, the internet, wireless,
servers and individual technical devices. The software packages have also advanced the
conventional business activities. The general paper ledgers and accounting records have been
automated through the use of accounting software. Information technology has brought
critical advantages for accounting departments. The lead time required by the accountants to
prepare and present financial information to the executive and shareholders has been reduced
through the IT networks and computer systems. Additionally, it has enhanced the general
efficiency and accuracy of the submitted information. The most significant impact of IT on
accounting is the ability of firms to cultivate and use computerized systems to trail and note
financial transactions. Manual spreadsheets, paper ledgers, financial statements in hard copy
have all been transformed into computer systems that can show personal sales and financial
reports.
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1.2 Amcor Company
Amcor is a global leader in developing and producing the best quality, ethical packaging for
multiple types of food, beverage, pharmacological, and other products. The organization has
35,000 employees distributed in 43 countries. Samuel Ramsden founded Armco in the 1860s.
The company. Armco has an ultra-modern and functional electronic data processing center in
Melbourne city which houses and processes most of the firms’ data. Other computer
terminals are located in each subsidiary. The organization has automated almost all of its
operations. More specifically, the accounting system of the company is fully automated, for
example, the accounts receivable, all ledgers and inventory. There is a payroll system for all
the employees in the Amcor Company in Melbourne city which is computerized. Computer
application has also been used in inventory, billing, and registration of shares (Amcor, no
date).
1.3 Structure of the Proposal
For clarity, orderliness and useful flow, reading and understanding of the research project,
this study have been structured and sectioned into four chapters with each addressing specific
elements of the topic under investigation. The first chapter comprises of the project proposal
and background information regarding the research. It includes the overall introduction and
background knowledge of the study, and overview of the client organization. Chapter two
involves the research problem, research objectives, and research questions. Section three
provides a review of literature relevant to the study topic with the aim of placing the study
within existing studies and searches existing knowledge in the area of study. Chapter four
presents a detailed plan of research methodology and design. The chapter shows the type of
research and research approach to be undertaken in the actual research. It also describes the
type of data to be used and the procedure of data collection. The proposed sample, sampling
frame, methods and approach to be used in addition to the characteristics of the sample and
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its size are all included in chapter three. The chapter also informs on the data analysis
technique and any ethical issues associated with the proposed study.
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CHAPTER TWO: RESEARCH PROBLEM AND RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
2.1 Research Problem
Organizations in almost all industries have adopted information technology in most of their
operations, and the advantages associated with it are undoubted. Generally, there is more
efficient and effectiveness in business operations and customer management leading to
increased productivity as a result of the integration of information technology (Bayo-
Moriones et al., 2013; Abubakar and Tasmin, 2012). The service sector, which is one of the
driving force in the economy of Australia, appears to have been left behind in the exploration
of IT operations. Most of the existing studies have focused on the impact of IT on the
banking industry (Osabuohien, 2008; Aduda and Kingoo, 2012), and on accounting system
(Ghasemi et al., 2011; Kim et al., 2009). But very few studies have assessed the impact of
computer technology on accounting system in connection with its effect on employment in
the Australian context. This, therefore, makes-up a research gap, and it is the objective of this
study to fill it. Thus, this research seeks to ascertain the impact of computer technology on
the accounting system and its effect on employee engagement using Amcor in Melbourne
city, Australia as a case study.
2.2 Research Objective
The general objective of this research is to ascertain the impact of computer technology on
the accounting system and its effect on employment of Amcor Company in Melbourne,
Australia.
The specific objectives include:
1. To examine the impact of computer technology on Accounting System.
2. To explore the impact of computer technology on employment in the field of
accounting.
3. To identify the factors limiting the use of technology in the accounting field
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2.3 Research Question
The general research question for this study is: what is the impact of computer technology on
accounting system and its effect on employment?
The specific research questions are:
1. What is the impact of computer technology on Accounting System?
2. What are the factors limiting the use of technology in accounting field?
3. What is the impact of computer technology on employment in the field of accounting?
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CHAPTER THREE: LITERATURE REVIEW
3.1 Introduction
The study conducted a literature review relevant to computer technology, accounting system,
and its effect on employment. Various empirical literature sources and theories were
reviewed. A theoretical and conceptual framework was also provided.
3.2 Definition of information technology
3.2.1 Information Technology
IT is the part of technology management and includes some areas that partly include things
like processes, computer software, computer hardware, data constructs and programming
languages. In other words, IT is anything that extracts data, facts or supposed knowledge in a
visual format, through any multimedia. Schwalbe (2015) defines IT as a broad term that
includes the procurement, processing, storage, and distribution of information. It is the
application of computers and communication technology in the handling of data, the flow of
information from the level of generation utilization. According to Buntin et al. (2011)
information technology covers the hardware and software items, information system
processes and administration practices, IT regulation structures, and the workforce skills
necessary for the use, development, and management of these products and processes to
produce the vital information. Holtshouse (2013) defined IT has computer software and
hardware solutions that assist the administration, activities, and procedures in organizations.
Hence, all the above definitions show that information technology is a generic term with
various meanings depending on the context of the application.
3.2.2 Computer Technology
A computer is an electronic device that can store and process information based on the
combination of instructions. Computer technology is an element of IT defined as the practice
of formulating and making and programming computers. The use of equipment across all
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sectors is generally associated with accuracy, precision and data efficiency (Rajaraman,
2018).
3.3 Impact of IT on an accounting system
Computers, internet, software including individual digital items have transformed the manner
of business operations. The advancement in technology also enhanced the accounting field.
Because accounting system encompasses business information, any improvement in this
sector will positively influence the entire accounting sector (Hurt and Zhen, 2008).
3.3.1 Competitive Advantage
Abadi et al. (2013) observe that the adoption of information technology resources enables
organizations to achieve and retain a competitive edge over other competitors. IT can be
applied in the production of new and enhanced products which will differentiate them from
those currently in the market. The adoption of information technology reduces costs while
offering solutions in business. Coman and Coman (2016) found out that organizations that
have adopted IT in their accounting systems benefit from efficiency in customer relationships
makes the work of employees manageable thus increasing their job satisfaction.
3.3.2 Accounting software
Accounting software is an application that tracks and processes accounting operations with
efficient components like accounts payable, payroll, accounts receivable, etc. An empirical
study by Urquía Grande et al. (2011) on Spanish SMEs revealed that accounting software
programs replaced the manual operations and enabled data centralization. Thus increasing
accessibility to information and quick generation of reports.
3.3.3 Security
Information technology is broadly applied in accounting security. Sajady et al. (2012) found
out that Passwords and identifications provide a reliable control in accessing private
information concerning financial transactions of the company. This dramatically enhances
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security by replacing the use of papers with computer programs to store confidential
information. Accounting information can be encrypted only to allow authorized access.
3.3.4 Efficiency
Any system is primarily gauged on the basis of its efficiency (Lim, 2013). Efficiency implies
attaining the best attainable outcomes while using minimal resources. With regard to the
accounting system, efficiency is enhanced through streamlined workflow systems, shared
storage and joint work (Klovienė and Gimzauskiene, 2015). This also enables the staff to
accomplish multiple tasks within a shorter time. Information technology can also be used in
automation of daily duties so as to make it easy to analyze data and access it from a central
place.
3.3.5 Speed
Speed is the trademark of IT. According to Ghasemi and Shafeiepour (2011), the use of
numerous technologies leads to faster processes and outcomes. The integration of information
technology has enabled the performance of several calculations within seconds, thus speeding
up of the generation of information by the system
3.3.6 Accuracy
Computer technology aid in computations. The accounting process is very comprehensive
and therefore meticulous recording and reporting are highly esteemed. Computer technology
minimizes the likelihood of experiencing computational errors which is rampant in the
manual system (Ghasemi and Shafeiepour, 2011).
3.3.7 Enhanced internal and external reporting
Owing to improved speed and accuracy in the processing of information, it is possible to
promptly produce and submit financial reports to internal and external stakeholders. The
external shareholders can make use of the reports to evaluate the condition of the enterprise
(Au and Kauffman, 2008). The management which makes up the internal users can use this
improvement to make economic decisions. Lu and Ramamurthy (2011) found out that most
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multiple organizations that have adopted computer technology attribute it to work
simplification, allowing the management and other staff to access financial reports on time.
3.3.8 Flexibility
The accounting fraternity seriously requires flexible technology. Güney (2014) opines that
the accounting system should have an inherent feature of adapting to the dynamic business
activities. The adoption of computer technology into the accounting system generates
flexibility to accommodate the variations. Additionally, computer technology allows the
upgrading of the accounting system as the volume of business transactions increases.
3.4 Impact of computer technology on employment in the field of accounting
The emerging computer technologies have also been exploited by the accountancy profession
to assist them to accomplish their tasks more accurately and efficiently.
3.4.1 Efficient and More Connected Workforce in the World
The accounting profession has explored the mobile technologies to deliver productivity and
efficiency to their consumers, bring business closer to their customers and to get connected
with them at all times in and out of office (Terzi, 2016). Khan and Ismail (2012) note that the
accounting profession in various organizations has also developed their mobile applications
to provide instant feedback and communication to colleagues within and in other subsidiaries
and customers. This has led to faster and more lined workforce in the world.
3.4.2 Accessibility to resources
Phang and Foong (2010) examined professional accountants in Malaysia and found out that
the employees in the accounting profession have also exploited the use of cloud technology to
maintain their availability online. The cloud technology such as computers and data storage
have allowed access to unlimited resources without any additional expenses to be incurred.
As a result employee in the accounting profession can easily access and share information
with their colleagues within and without the institution. This has also reduced the need for
physical space and start-up costs needed for manual sharing of information.
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3.4.3 Improved Social Association
Computer technology has also transformed the accountancy employment sector by reshaping
the lives of accountants through social collaboration because of the opportunities technology
has created (Gatautis, 2008). Accounting professionals are using crowdsourcing to speed up
and enhance product and service development. On the other hand, crowdfunding is linking
start-ups and projects with financial resources. Some organizations make financial
disclosures to their investors through social media developed by the organization. Social tools
have also been incorporated into business transactions to maintain on spot communication
with clients and other employees in the accounting profession. These computer technology
innovations have enhanced communication which is key in accounting and minimized the
traditional communication barriers Khan and Ismail (2012).
3.4.4 Enhanced Comprehension of Market Conditions, Planning, and Risks
Since Computer technology has led to the centralization of data, accountants can use big data
technology to manage data complexity and to improve their understanding of the economic
conditions which will facilitate planning and risk avoidance (Chen, Chiang, and Storey,
2012). Warren et al. (2015) suggest that accountants need to be equipped with the ability to
manage data on the business operation to enable them to make decisions that will lead to
competitive advantage.
3.4.5 Easy of Payment Systems
Employees in the accounting profession are traditionally known for remitting salaries and
making or receiving payments in any organization. Computer technology has made this work
easy for them through the introduction of various payment system such as the introduction of
e-commerce into different payment options (Dahlberg et al., 2008). Chen et al. (2012) on the
effect of ERP on account’s work observe that e-banking, pre-paid smart cards, electronic
wallets, etc. has improved transparency levels in financial transactions thus making it easy for
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business experts to track the flow of money. This further simplifies the process of
reconciliation thus saving money and time.
3.4.6 Reduced Risks
Accountants mostly handle money which is a risky business, and any human error which
leads to loss is accounted for by the accountant. However, through computer technology,
various tools have been introduced to manage cybersecurity and to protect against any
deliberate attacks and unintentional loss of financial data that is confidential (Grabski, Leech,
and Schmidt, 2011). Through the use of audit software, accountants can be sure on controls
and policies to oversee data privacy and security. Additionally, technology has enabled
continuous monitoring and updating of accounting systems to protect and minimize risks and
associated costs (Kotb and Roberts, 2011).
3.5 Factors limiting the use of technology in the accounting field
3.5.1 Technology, Organization, and Environment (TOE) Model
The academic literature contains several models that try to ascertain the factors that
determine the adoption of ICT. The scope of this study is only limited to the Technology,
organization, environment (TOE) model by Tornatzky and Fleischer (Cited in Baker, 2012)
because it is one of the most widely used in the empirical studies of the adoption of ICTs
Chan, Chong, and Zhou, 2012; Ramdani et al., 2013). Additionally, the TOE model considers
the changes of technological innovation involving people, organizations and government
policies (Mello, 2012).
3.5.1.1 Technological Context
Rodríguez-Ardura et al. (2010) opine that the adoption of technology is reliant on the
availability of skilled experts. This implies that the availability of individuals with established
knowledge of the technology to be introduced will foster its implementation because they
will enable better integration of the different module relevant to the application. The
availability of professionals in IT will improve compliance and processes in the accounting
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system. Therefore, an absence of skilled employees on technological matters will limit the
use of technology in accounting (Henderson et al., 2012; Rodríguez-Ardura et al., 2010).
3.5.1.2 Organizational Context
According to Pitassi et al. (2014), the absence of an already established and related IT
infrastructure will limit the use of technology. Moreover, the adoption of technology in an
organization will depend on the perceived rewards such as cost reduction (Rahayu and Day,
2015), better quality, low risk (Lim, 2013), reduced volume of work (Alam and Noor, 2009)
among others. If the expected benefits are not convincingly enough, then the implementation
of IT may not be successful. The lack of support of senior management will also limit the
adoption of IT.
3.5.1.3 Environmental context
The absence of market pressures from the competitive companies may limit the adoption of
technology especially in organizations that are reluctant to innovate (Oliveira and Martins,
2010). Furthermore, the adoption of technology can be dependent on the government
regulations which may limit business automation to specific business operations (Rodriguez-
Ardura et al., 2010). Alam and Noor (2009) observe that lack of governmental support
through its various institutions may limit technological transformations.
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SFigure 3.1 Conceptual Framework of the TOE Model
Source: Tornatzky and Fleischer (1990)
Environment
Government regulation
Lack of Government support
Absence of pressure from
competitors
Organization
Lack of support from executive
Unavailability of IT infrastructure
Perceived benefits e.g. quality,
cost reduction etc.
Technology
Unavailability of experts
Awareness of technical standards
Integration of ICT
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CHAPTER FOUR: RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
4.1 Introduction
This chapter provides a detailed explanation of the proposed research methodology that will
be followed in the actual survey. It outlines the research design, study population under
investigation, sampling design and sample size, data collection methods and procedures, data
analysis and presentation.
4.2 Research Design
The study will adopt a descriptive survey. This research design will be most appropriate
because the primary aim is to examine the impact of computer technology on accounting
system and its effect on employment on Armco Company by gathering opinions and facts
from the company. This study will also adopt a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative
approaches) to collect data from a cross section of the target population (Maxwell, 2012). A
case study method was applied to acquire a comprehensive insight (Taylor et al., 2015) and to
be able to examine the impact of computer technology on accounting system and its effect on
employment.
4.3 Target Population
The target population for this study is 130 employees who work in the finance department.
The study targets these employees because they operate in the accounts department and are in
one way or the other conversant with different levels of the use of computer technology in the
accounting system.
4.4 Sampling Design and Sample Size
The sampling frame for this research is obtained from the human resource department of
Armco. According to the human resourced department, the company has a total of 130
employees working at different levels in the accounts department. These include finance
directors, finance managers, chief accountants, project accountants, cashiers, accounts clerks,
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and payment receivable accountants. The sample size was determined using Cronchran’s
(1977) formula:
Where; n = the desired sample size
N = the target population and
e= acceptable margin of error estimated at 0.05 (95% C.I)
e2 = (0.05)2 = 0.0025
Therefore, sample size (n) = 130/(1+0.3) = 130/(1.3)
N= 100(sample population)
Therefore, the sample size will be 100 respondents.
Stratified sampling technique will be used to ascertain the sample because it minimizes
selection bias (Mugenda, 2008). Because the population is already categorized into units, a
sample will be selected from each group for the entire sample to be representative. The study
will adopt random sampling approach to sample the subjects within the strata or groups
because this technique will ensure there is equal representation and without bias (Mugenda,
2008).
4.5 Data Collection Methods
The survey is to collect both primary and secondary data using the previously outlined
approaches.
4.5.1Primary Data
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The study will use structured questionnaires to collect primary data. But, interviews will be
used where necessary to offer guidance (within the limitation of the questionnaires) to the
respondents who need clarification. The questions will be close-ended, with some variables
being measured using the Likert scale seeing that they are qualitative. The close-ended
questions are preferred because they enable the incorporation of the views of the respondents
and improves the accuracy of the data. Close-ended questions also make data entry much
easier (Mugenda, 2008).
4.5.2 Secondary Data
The study examined existing literature relevant to the study topic in order to develop a broad
understanding of the phenomena under investigation (Merriam, 2015). Keywords were used
to search for relevant academic information for the study. Additionally, the study analyzed
literature on the accounting system of Armco in order to understand the level of
computerization in the accounts department. Secondary data will be compared with the
primary data when analyzing data in order to obtain a broader view of the impact of computer
technology in the accounting system and its effects on employment. Also, secondary data will
be applied in the triangulation of the information acquired from primary data.
4.6 Procedure of Data Collection
Data is to be collected using structured questionnaires given to the employees in the finance
department including finance directors, finance managers, chief accountants, project
accountants, cashiers, accounts clerks, and payment receivable accountants. Some of the
target respondents will be interviewed but within the limits of the questionnaire. The
researcher will personally administer the questionnaires in hardcopy to the respondents in
their various departments. The respondents will be allowed one week to fill in the
questionnaires and drop them at the reception to be picked by the researcher. The gathered
data will be checked for consistency and completeness before analysis.
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4.7 Data Analysis and Presentation
The collected data will be analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics using
statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The close-ended questions in the questionnaire
will be coded for easy analysis. Any obvious errors in the gathered data will be eliminated
through cleaning. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distributions, mean and percentages
are to be used. Inferential statistics including regression analysis will be carried out, whereas
standard deviation will be determined to ascertain the consistency and variability of the
feedbacks across the survey. The findings will be presented in the form of tables, charts,
graphs and narrative statements
4.8 Ethical Issues
The researcher is to request an introduction letter from the university which indicates the
purpose of the survey and assures the respondents of confidentiality with regard to the data
collected. This is to be attached to the questionnaire. The researcher is to brief the
participants before the commencement of the survey on the objective of the study and assure
them of confidentiality of the information to be collected and that it will only be used for the
purpose already indicated.
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Appendices
Appendix 1: Ethical Approval Form
Application for Ethics Approval
Student Details
Name :
Student Number :
Email :
Subject (Code/Name) :
Supervisor Details
Name :
Email :
Proposed Research Details :
Topic: Impact of Computer Technology in Accounting System and Its Effects on
Employment: A Case Study of Armco, Melbourne.
Summary of the proposed research project, including brief description of methodology (bullet
points where applicable)
The study seeks to examine Impact of Computer Technology in Accounting System
and Its Effects on Employment: A Case Study of Armco, Melbourne.
The study is to adopt a descriptive survey. A mixed approach will also be used to
collect data from the target population of 130 employees in the finance department.
Stratified sampling technique is to be used to determine the sample and random
sampling to be used to select samples from each group. Structured questionnaires are
to be used to collect primary data, and the responses measured using a Likert scale.
Data is to be run in SPSS and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics
Ethics Checlist (Participants)
How do you propose to select your participants?
I will use stratified sampling technique in which each strata will comprise of
employees from different units. Random sampling will be used to select the subjects
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of each strata.
Will your research involve adults who might be identified by you or anyone else reading the
research ? (Yes/No). If yes, how will you obtain their consent ?
Yes. Consent from the respondents will be sough through an introduction letter from
the university which will be attached to the questionnaire. Additionally, the
introductory part of the questionnaire will also request the respondent to participate in
the survey, thus seeking their consent.
Does your research involve children under eighteen years old ? (Yes/No)
No.
Ethics Checlist (Participants)
Will your research take place in an institution ? (Yes/No)
Yes. Armco in Melbourne, Australia
Are in a position of power over participants ? (Yes/No), if yes, describe any ethical implication
an dhow you deal with them
No.
Describe any risk or harm to participants which might be associated with yoru research and
how would you propose to minimese these risks.
My research may risk the participant’s job because it is to be carried out during work
hours. I plan to mitigate this risk by giving the respondents seven days to fill the
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Computer Technology 30
questionnaire. Therefore, they can fill it at their leisure time and not necessarily during
work hours
Privacy and Confidentiality
How will you protect the confidentiality and privacy of your participants ?
I will first ensure that the identity of the participant is anonymous all through the
research. Also, the information gathered will only be used for the intended purpose,
which is academic.
Will it be possible to identify participants from published data ? (Yes/No), if yes, is there any
ethical issue which may arise from such identification.
No.
Data Collection and Storage
Who will have access to the data ?
My self, other researchers who may want to conduct a study on related topic, and any
other interested party whose intention is for academic purposes.
How will you store the data in order to ensure its security
The data will be stored in excel files and word and will be encrypted using password
Note : Ethics Approval Form is not counted toward the word count of the assessment, only fill in
this form if applicable. Include this form as appendices.
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