DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF ACCOUNTING: FROM AUTOMATION TO BIG DATA AND BLOCKCHAIN AUDIT

Abstract

Relevance. The rapid diffusion of innovative technologies is radically transforming the architecture of the modern business environment, placing new demands on the speed, accuracy, and relevance of financial information. Under these conditions, accounting is evolving from a passive system of retrospective transaction recording into a central integrated hub of digital data. Research into the theoretical and practical aspects of the diffusion of cloud solutions, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data is critically important for ensuring the strategic sustainability and competitiveness of enterprises in the digital economy.
The aim of the study is to provide a comprehensive theoretical justification and systematization of the essential characteristics of the digital transformation of accounting and analytical processes of business entities, to determine the key technological drivers of this process, and to identify barriers, risks, and strategic prospects for the development of the Digital Accounting system.
Research Methods. The methodological foundation of the study consists of general scientific and specialized methods of inquiry. In particular, the study employs the method of systemic-structural and comparative analysis (to examine the impact of macroeconomic trends on accounting), methods of generalization and scientific abstraction (when studying the functional potential of AI, Big Data, Blockchain, and ERP systems), as well as tabular and graphical methods (for a visual systematization of the advantages, risks, and long-term prospects of accounting digitization).
Results. The key trends in the digital economy and the vectors of their direct impact on accounting methodology have been summarized and structured. The practical potential of leading technological solutions, in particular electronic document management platforms and ERP systems, has been analyzed. It has been found that digitalization is transforming the role of the accounting specialist, shifting their functions toward strategic consulting, predictive analysis, and risk management. Along with the advantages (automation, error minimization, cost optimization), key disruptive challenges have been identified and classified: cybersecurity threats, high capital investments, a shortage of digital competencies among staff, technical failures, and legal conflicts.
Practical value of the work. The formulated provisions, identified risks, and proposed forecast scenarios for the development of digital accounting can be used by enterprise management to develop strategies for the digital modernization of corporate accounting systems, assess associated cyber risks, and optimize programs for the professional development of accounting staff.
Conclusions. The digital transformation of accounting is not merely a localized update of software, but a systemic reconfiguration of the entire model of corporate governance. Building seamless digital ecosystems allows for the minimization of operational risks and creates conditions for the sustainable development of enterprises. Effectively overcoming related challenges (through enhanced cybersecurity and continuous staff training) is the key factor in the stability of business entities in today’s market environment.