Components of an Ais Essay Example
Components of an Ais Essay Example

Components of an Ais Essay Example

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  • Pages: 3 (673 words)
  • Published: April 7, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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In the modern business environment, it is crucial for companies to have precise records that demonstrate their performance and susceptibility. The utilization of conventional paper records has declined as major organizations now employ an accounting information system. This system assists in continuously monitoring daily records and generating monthly and annual reports. It allows users to gather, store, handle, process, and retrieve data, offering a comprehensive overview of the company's financial condition. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that the efficiency of this system heavily depends on the individuals responsible for inputting the data.

Users from different roles such as accountants, consultants, managers, chief financial officers, and accounting clerks can utilize the system. The system encourages collaboration between various departments within a company. Management sets sales goals that help staff calculate inventory or goods neede

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d for production. When a sale happens, the salesperson enters the orders into the AIS. Then, the accounting team generates an invoice for the customer while the warehouse prepares the order. Ultimately, it is up to the shipping department to deliver the order.

The accounting receivables department is informed of the order and can establish the billing. The customer service department can monitor the order, while the system generates reports for management. Throughout the process, managers have visibility into costs related to inventory, shipping, or manufacturing. They can also access reports to determine if they are meeting their budgetary goals. The procedure and instructions of an accounting information system encompass the techniques employed to gather, store, retrieve, and process data.

Most of these methods are automated, but some can be manipulated manually. The information used can come from internal employees or customers’ online orders. Th

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employees will be trained on how to correctly input the data into the system. It is crucial that the information be inputted accurately for the data to be precise. The data within the accounting information system is highly significant for the company as it represents the company’s financial position and could have adverse effects if inaccurate.

The data in an accounting information system includes various elements, such as sales orders, customer billing statements, sale analyst reports, vendor invoices, check registers, general ledgers, inventory data, payroll and tax information. The specific types of information vary depending on the company's nature. This data is essential for the daily operations of the business and is also used to generate financial statements annually. The software utilized in the system acts as a computer program that aids in inputting, storing, retrieving, processing and analyzing the company's financial data.

The main component that has replaced tedious paperwork used by companies in the past is now available. Smaller companies may opt for generic software like Quickbooks, Peachtree Accounting, or Microsoft’s Small Business Accounting. On the other hand, larger companies typically go for Microsoft’s Dynamics GP, Sage Group’s MAS 90 or 200, Oracles Peoplesoft, or custom-designed software tailored to their specific needs. The chosen software must be both reliable and secure as managers heavily rely on the information it contains to make critical decisions that impact the company. Hence, accuracy of the information is crucial.

The information technology infrastructure, also called the hardware, is essential for running the accounting information system. It comprises personal computers, servers, printers, routers, and storage media. Compatibility with the software used is crucial when selecting this equipment. It is advisable

to buy from a reputable company that provides equipment servicing to avoid costly repairs or system downtime caused by outdated or faulty hardware.

The internal controls in the accounting information system are security measures implemented to safeguard sensitive data. These controls can range from passwords to biometric identification, with the purpose of limiting access to authorized users and protecting confidential information like social security numbers, salary details, and credit card numbers. Encrypting and regularly backing up this data is crucial. Maintaining accuracy in financial records is vital as discrepancies may lead to substantial financial losses. The components discussed here form the foundation for efficient business operations within the company's accounting information system.

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