Virtual accounting in Malta : a study

Abstract

PURPOSE: The study aims to depict how Maltese accountants are currently conducting their work, and what the Maltese CPAs and organisations' perspective is on Virtual Accounting. This analysis assesses whether in the near future Virtual Accounting will gain momentum in Malta. DESIGN: The research methodology is based on two on-line questionnaires with a random sample of 833 local CPAs and 513 businesses representatives respectively. FINDINGS: The most ICTs used by accountants to conduct their work are; printers, electronic spreadsheets and e-mails. Occasionally, most of local CPAs tend to work from a remote location as their employer does not allow teleworking and perceive the accounting function as a core one. In fact, the majority of businesses own their in-house accounting department. CPAs perceive ICTs as the main facilitator of Virtual Accounting, while they see reluctant to change and flexibility as the main barrier and benefit respectively. Conversely, businesses perceive immediate software updates as the main benefit and security as the main barrier of Virtual Accounting services. Most of local businesses are unlikely to appoint a virtual accountant because they are reluctant to change, and believe that current practices are safer regarding security and confidentiality. CONCLUSION: Most of the respondents consider Virtual Accounting useful for local businesses. However, since Maltese people are too reluctant to change; Virtual Accounting might not gain momentum in Malta in the near future. VALUE: It is foreseen that this study will increase awareness on technological advances and acceptability of Virtual Accounting. Recommendations include to increase flexible work arrangements and to conduct a scientific research on the subject. Education and training must also be taken into consideration to keep both CPAs and entrepreneurs updated on ICTs development.