ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND DECISION-MAKING EXPLORE HOW ADVANCEMENTS IN ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEMS ENHANCE FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES IN ORGANIZATIONS, IN CASE OF PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: AIS have developed as integral tools in enhancing the financial decision-making of international enterprises. In Pakistan, increasing application of cutting-edge AIS innovations ― including real-time reporting, cloud computing, and data analytics ― has reshaped routine accounting functions into strategic decisional support tools. This movement mirrors a wider digitization in financial services in which the shifts taking place may well require an empirical analysis appropriate for developing-world contexts. Aim: This study is also sought to investigate how developments in AIS work to improve the quality, speed and strategic of financial decision-making in Pakistani firms. Method: The study uses mixed-methods data from 215 finance professionals working in the manufacturing, banking, and service sectors through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Regression and correlation were performed on the quantitative data and thematic analysis on the qualitative data. Findings: The findings suggest that AIS capabilities, including real-time reporting, forecasting, risk management and ERP integration are important factors that enhance the effectiveness of financial decision making. Findings from the regression suggest that real-time reporting is the key predictor of decision quality, while the theme results suggest barriers to user acceptance and training. Correlations provide additional evidence of strong relationships between AIS use and enhanced decision speed and accuracy. Conclusion: The research findings suggest that advancements in AIS technology are playing a critical supporting role for data-based (objective, impartial, and evidence supported), transparent, and real-time financial decisions. But to be successful it needs to overcome organizational hurdles with regard to user acceptance and digital skills. These results provide policy implications for policy-makers, managers and technology developers seeking to maximize the effectiveness of AIS implementation in developing countries such as Pakistan.