Effect of Artificial Intelligence on the Performance of Accounting Operations among Accounting Firms in South East Nigeria

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how financial institutions are operated and it is expected to increasingly take over core functions because of cost savings and operational efficiencies. In recent time, significant improvement has been made in artificial intelligence especially as it relates to accounting profession which have changed its focus from paper and pencil entry to computer and software entry. But the greatest danger of Artificial Intelligence is that people conclude too early that they understand it. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of artificial intelligence on the performance of accounting operations among accounting firms in South East Nigeria. Descriptive research design was adopted in the study among 185 accountants and managers in accounting firms in Anambra and Enugu state. Structured questionnaire was used to obtain the information needed for the study. Data collected were presented in table. The study hypotheses were tested using linear regression at 5% level of significance. The result of the study showed that Expert system (r = .904; ­­F = 608.447; p = .000) and Intelligent agent (r = .754a; ­­F = 178.810; p = .000); has a significant effect on the performance of accounting function of accounting firms in South East Nigeria. It was concluded that, the application of artificial intelligence positively influences the performance of accounting functions. The researchers recommended that accountants and accounting firms should continually improve their knowledge regarding artificial intelligence as this will enhance the performance of accounting functions, thereby eliminating certain accounting cost.