Author Preface

Information, and the management of information, is a fundamental aspect of accounting and business management. The principles and concepts of information technology are prerequisites for effective business accounting. Universities, TAFE and other college curricula routinely include the basics of information technology in their accounting courses.

The aim of this book is to address the specific performance criteria of information technology competencies in the new Financial Services Training Package presented in colleges of TAFE. The authors have focused on presenting basic concepts in a manner that is relevant to the Australian business context, while retaining the student's interest in a rapidly evolving area of business management. This interest is vital for the student who wishes to remain comfortable with the rate of change in the various systems encountered in the workplace.

The authors have chosen a medium-sized furniture business as the platform to explain the various responsibilities involved with introducing a new automated system into a business. Each chapter starts with a 'story' to introduce the subject matter covered in that chapter. This, together with the pictorial representations in the text, is geared to assisting the student with visualising real-world situations and providing a more interactive framework for learning the subject matter.

The chapters in the text need not be followed strictly in the order given. It is envisaged that some students will have had prior exposure to relevant computer systems, and the mechanics of applying accounting principles (e.g. the chapters on transaction cycles) may be learned first. Checkpoints, Multiple-choice questions, Activities and Case studies have been provided in each chapter to assist with the learning process. Students who complete the workbook sections routinely will have a better appreciation of the practical applications of the concepts discussed.

Chapters 1 to 4 explain the systems concept, basic accounting theory and the tools for system development work. Chapters 5 onward present the system development life cycle, set against the backdrop of the Australian accounting standards and legislative requirements (which are discussed in Chapter 7). Chapters 11 to 16 discuss the transactions involved in the various transaction cycles; these chapters are written for accountants who apply information systems and technology to their work, as well as for IT professionals who are supporting accounting functions in a business.

A worked solutions manual and other useful teaching resources are available to those who adopt this textbook for use in a lecture-style setting.

2003 McGraw-Hill Higher Education
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