Artificial intelligence, big data, blockchain and cloud computing – future accounting?

Abstract

The contribution examines how the accounting profession is affected by specific technologies, which are artificial intelligence, big data, blockchain and cloud computing, and thus contributes to the discussion about the use of technology in the accounting profession with its content. According to the literature review, these technologies can dramatically automate and digitize the work of accountants. For that reason, it is important for accountants to understand these technologies, as these technologies are constantly evolving and more companies, will incorporate them into their business processes. The aim of the overview article is to theoretically define artificial intelligence, big data, blockchain and cloud computing, based on an overview of selected research, to analyze available articles on this topic and to propose appropriate recommendations. Although digital tools can replace a whole range of accounting activities, it is important for accountants not to consider them as a threat, but rather as an aid in their work. For this purpose, it is advisable for accountants to acquire new skills and characteristics, or deepen existing ones in such a way as to be competitive in the digital world. Emphasis needs to be placed on the education of employees in companies, but also on changing the content of teaching in educational institutions, namely in the field of digital technologies and skills in the field of information and communication technologies, which already greatly influence contemporary accounting. At the same time, it is necessary to make such legislative changes that will reflect the current problem of the entire industry 4.0.