Accountants Perceptions Of Internal Control Problems Associated With The Use Of Computerized Accounting Systems: Evidence From Bahrain

The objective of this study is to investigate Bahraini accountants perceptions of internal control problems associated with their use of computerised accounting systems and how such problems may be resolved. A three-section questionnaire was developed to collect the data. A sample of (100) firms was selected for the study. Sixty-two questionnaires were returned duly completed (a response rate of 62%). Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were used to analyse the data. The results indicate that Bahraini accountants perceive that there exist some internal control problems associated with the use of computer-based accounting systems. The most important problem is that information can be changed without physical traces. However, they perceive that certain control procedures can be undertaken to overcome them (e.g., ensure that only authorised people have access to computers and records; use of backup copies; effective testing of programs for problems noted and separation of duties within data processing). Significant differences were found in some of the problems faced by the firms according to the nature of business operations

HOW TO PREVENT FRAUD?

Fraud can range from minor employee theft and unproductive behavior tomisappropriation of assets and fraudulent financial reporting. The risk of fraud can be reduced through a combination of prevention and detection measures. Moreover, prevention and deterrence measures are much less costly than the time and expense required for fraud detection and investigation. The information presented in this document generally is applicable to entities of all sizes. However, the degree to which certain programs and controls are applied in smaller, less-complex entities and the formality of theirapplication are likely to differ from larger organizations.fraud proofing, fraud prevention, control, accounting analysis, job descriptions, supervision

Hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control: a study at construction site

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) is an Act to make further provisions for securing the safety, health and welfare of persons at work, for protecting others against risks to safety or health in connection with the activities of persons at work, to establish the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, and for matters connected therewith. This study focuses on infrastructure construction in Pagoh Education Hub. In present days, despite of knowledge in OSHA act, workers often proceed the work without considering any safety precaution or act at workplace as stated in OSHA Act. Due to ignorance of workers and employee on OSHA Act, workers are exposed to danger and hazard at their workplace causing them minor or worst fatal injury. The data collection was carried out through site investigation using Preliminary Hazard Analysis (PHA), HIRARC form and interview session with several workers in the constructio. The main objective of this study is to support the idea to coordinate and redefined the practice of occupational safety and health as workers discipline at their workplace based on existing potential hazard. This study was conducted to identify the hazard that occur at the workplace and analyse the safety precaution taken by the workers and employer to avoid accidents. As a result, this study listed several suggestions to improve the practice of occupational safety and health among workers in the workplace

The relevance of a good internal control system in a computerised accounting information system

Advancements in information technology (IT) have enabled companies to use computers to carry out their activities that were previously performed manually. Accounting systems that were previously performed manually can now be performed with the help of computers. With all the advantages of computerized accounting software, business owners need to realize that problems do arise for a variety of reasons. Dependence on computers sometimes leads to bigger problems. This paper, therefore provide a detail information about the concept of internal control to its relevance in a computerised accounting information. This study also considers the trend between manual and computerised accounting system. This study concludes with recommendations on how to maximise the effectiveness of developing internal control systems of the computerized accounting systems which are characterized of providing appropriate safety to the systems. The systems can provide information characterized by reliability for the sake of taking decisions. These systems should integrated with other administrative and organizational systems

The Impact of Internal Control through Computerized Accounting System among Small and Medium Enterprises in Oman

Purpose: The aims of the study were to identify and evaluate the internal controls used in a computerized accounting system of the SMEs, to identify and evaluate the merits and demerits of the internal controls used in the companies, and to identify the challenges in the implementation of internal control systems in the computerized accounting system of the SMEs. Design/methodology/approach: The population of the study was the employees of the SME’s registered with Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) in Muscat, Oman. Samples were selected from this population on a random sampling basis. One-member employee from the SMEs representing the enterprise filled the questionnaire. The survey was conducted through a questionnaire using a Google form. 220 samples were collected from the population.  The data collected was analyzed using data processing methods and Microsoft excel. Findings: The study found that SMEs were using computers to perform their daily transactions and the accounting software used by SMEs were cheap, of low quality and not proficient enough. One of the components of internal control system, i.e. monitoring was implemented by most of the SMEs and they also stated that they rarely hired an external auditor for auditing because of the expensive auditing fees. It was also stated that the security mechanisms were not properly implemented in the SMEs because of the expensive cost. Research limitations/implications: The study suggested that the Government should emphasize the SMEs to implement a good internal control system. This can reduce the errors and also increase the efficiency of operations. SOX in Omani context should be strictly implemented making it statutory and mandatory for all the SMEs in Oman and such statutory laws will help the auditors to abide by the rules and regulations to be followed. Social Implications : Government should support SMEs through providing education on the importance of internal control systems as most of the employees of SMEs are poorly educated/illiterates. The Government should set a price ceiling to the external auditors on the auditing fees exclusively for SMEs so that they can afford. Originality / Value: No study was carried before in relates to the impact of the internal control system through the computerized accounting system among the SMEs in Muscat, Oman. This study will through light on the statutory laws required for the sake of internal control measures required for the SMEs

Analysis of implementation : the payroll accounting system and employee wages

The accounting system, especially the payroll accounting system, and employee wages will assist the company in managing the payment of wages and salary, thereby preventing fraud. Internal control will be influenced by a solid accounting system. The goal of this research is to determine the company's internal control effectiveness by examining how well payroll accounting information systems are applied. The research method used is a literature study. In the organizational structure, there is a lack of task separation and division. The authorization system and recording procedures and healthy practices have not been implemented properly. In conclusion, internal control aspects in the payroll and salary accounting systems have not been fully fulfilled in several companies

The Impact of The Digital Revolution on The Efficiency of Auditors in Auditing Computerized Programs

This study aimed to research the impact of the digital revolution and its various fields, secrets, and ramifications on the auditors efficiency in auditing computerized programs that precede auditing financial statements, and to ensure their integrity to give an impartial technical opinion. To achieve the study objectives, a questionnaire comprising of 16 sections was created and distributed to two groups: auditors in Jordan and computerized program administrators. Each group was allocated 100 questionnaires, with 70 and 80 questionnaires retrieved from the first and second group respectively. Statistical analysis using the SPSS program was conducted to extract the mean and standard deviation, and Chi-square analysis was employed to obtain the study results. The results of the study indicate that there isa statistically significant positive impact of the digital revolution on the efficiency of auditors from the point of view of auditors, while there is no impact of the digital revolution on the efficiency of auditors. A discrepancy is noted in the views of both samples. Therefore, the study recommended boosting research on the efficiency of auditors in auditing information technology systems in light of the digital revolution, in addition to the need for training and qualification courses in information technology auditing