Accountant's Guide to Computers and Information Technology - 2021 (Text Based)

The course covers what every accountant should know about computers, information systems, and technology. The practical and efficient use of computer technology is highlighted. Popular accounting, compliance, tax, and audit software packages are discussed, along with trends in the computer market.  The importance of information systems and data protection, databases, client/server computing, and cloud computing are discussed, with an emphasis on security issues. The course also teaches you how to make lease-rent-purchase decisions and analyze and evaluate information technology (IT) investments.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify components of an accounting information system

2. Recognize characteristics of accounting, tax, and audit software

3. Recognize the purpose of eXtensible business reporting language (xbrl)

4. Recognize the function of Activity-Based Costing (ABC) systems

5. Identify the value of managerial software and cash management software

6. Identify the steps in managing computer security

7. Recognize failure points for a computer system

8. Recognize appropriate protective steps for software modification

9. Recognize technical advantages of cloud computing

10. Identify business benefits from cloud computing

Required Components: Written Materials