CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Computer has been defined as electronic machine that accept data (input) processes it to produce useful result (output). It is also capable of storing information. It uses predefined instruction known as computer programs to execute the task in order to produce output. Computer’s technology has helped in no small measure in activating the problems encountered using the manual tools and machines. Computerization ranks prominently in the of the business world. Through computerization, industries have been able to control their cost of production heading to high profit margin, sustainable growth and development, accurate and lasting records. The manufacturing industry has come a long way from the manual era of machine operation to modern day science and technology. Within this period, a number of major changes took place in the business world with significant positive impact on the business world. Notable among these changes are those changes in manipulation of accounting records, fantastic computer designs etc. We have various types and categories of computers which perform diverse functions; however, the one of interest and relevance to this research is the digital type of computer. The history of the digital computer data back to the Abacus which was intended in China more than a thousand years ago and used to add, subtract, multiply and divided. This was followed by the counting invented by John Napier in the 1600’s. Blaise Pascal followed closely with a mechanical machine that could do similar jobs more efficiently. GOH friend Von Liebritz invented a more improved version of Pascal’s machine. Other great mathematicians and investors like Jacuard, Babbage, Grace Hopper etc made greater strides towards, building calculating machines. An American Herman Hoterrith, developed the mechanical members calculator which was used to read punched cards and greatly facilitated the sun of 1890 in that country. Hoterrith founded a company to sell his inventions and today that company has grown to become IBM which is (international Business machines) the largest computer company in the world. The era of modern computers began sometime in the period preceding the end of the Second World War when the vast calculations required in the production of the first bomb necessitated, he buildings of a giant computer which operated on vacuum tubes. This computer was huge and expensive and only affordable by few. Thus, from this period on wards, with the introduction of new technologies, computer became smaller in size and cheap as well: such that today we have the micro computer which costs a few thousand naira and can-do job undreamed of forty years back. There are three classes of computers now in use;
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The accounting system is beset-ted by some deficiencies. For example the computerized accounting system is exposed to the risk of data theft and loss either as result of power failure or from hackers. It is also exposed to fraud by those who can secretly have access to the system. Customer information could be tampered with in the process thereby leading to security breach. The management could be deterred in some cases where there is loss of data in executing legitimate projects and decision making. According to Vermaat and Shelly (2011) computers related problems include health risks, the violation of privacy, public safety, the impact on the labor force, and the impact on the environment. Therefore the problem confronting the research is to appraise the Computerized accounting system in the 21st century Nigeria problem and prospects. Case Study of TSA –Accounting
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To determine the nature, problems and prospect of Computerized accounting system in the 21st century Nigeria To appraise the nature, problem and prospects of TSA computerized accounting in the 21st century Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
What is the nature, problem and prospect of computerized Accounting What is the nature; problem and prospect of TSA computerized Accounting
1.5 Significance of the Study
The study shall proffer a structural appraisal of computerized accounting system in the 21st century Nigeria problem and prospects. Case Study of TSA
1.6 Research Hypothesis
Ho The problem of TSA Computerized accounting system is Low
HI The problem of TSA Computerized accounting system is high
Ho The prospect of TSA Computerized accounting system is Low Hi The prospect of TSA computerized accounting system is high
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study focuses on the appraisal of computerized accounting system in the 21st century Nigeria problem and prospects. Case Study of TSA
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The research was confronted by some constraint including logistics and geographical factors
1.9 Definition of Terms
ACCOUNTING SYSTEM DEFINED Accounting system is a system designed to record accounting transaction involving a business or event taking into cognizance the policies of the firm. According to Hartzell (2006) accounting system is the process of organizing, summarizing, recording and reporting financial transactions with the view of providing financial information to management to facilitate policy decisions, budgeting, preparing financial report and other financial approvals. Accounting system is viewed as formal systems which identify measure, accumulate, analyze, prepare, interpret and communicate accounting information of a business organization or institution. Ama (2004). Accounting system is regulated by the organizations policies, rules, regulations, methods, procedures and techniques. Accounting systems constitute the mechanism adopted for gathering and communicating the financial performance and position of the organization
COMPUTERIZED ACCOUNTING DEFINED The two major types of Accounting System include Manual Accounting system and Computerized Accounting System. The manual system involves the use of hand for the posting of accounting information into the various books of accounts of the firm. The computerized system involves the use of specialized machines as computer in gathering and processing of accounting information. It is also referred to as Electronic Data Processing (EDP) Accounting System. The applications of computer in accounting system involves the use of Word processor, Data base and Spread sheet.
