What is Accounting?
Accounting or accountancy is the systematic measurement, collection, and communication of data about non-financial economic entities like corporations and businesses. This data is then processed into reports that are used to make strategic and informed decisions about how to run the business more efficiently. Companies need to account for the direct and indirect costs involved in the conduct of their business every day. Without this information, they cannot calculate the profitability of their activities and can never determine whether their plans are cost effective.
The main work of an accountant is to prepare and maintain the books of accounts and financial statements. He must also collect information from other people and external agencies about the state of their finances. This is done by collecting all kinds of information about the company and the activities of its management. The work of the accountant is important since it determines the profitability and the value of the firm.
The basic nature of accounting involves the use of financial information, models, and tools to improve the efficiency of business and accounting operations. There are many categories under which accounting is usually divided: Financial reporting, Public accounting, Management accounting, System accounting, Market analysis, Economics of accounting, and Business conditions and strategies. All these categories share common principles in the preparation of accounting reports. They are also classified according to the methods of accounting: Manual, Computerized, and Information accounting. In addition, there are different types of accountants as well as different styles.
Accounting is the science of receiving, organizing, and analyzing information regarding price and sale transactions. Its objective is the recognition, measurement, and interpretation of financial transactions that take place within a firm. Basic accounting form the basis for financial reporting of the firm and provides information on the financial condition of the firm. The purpose of financial accounting is to provide decision makers with accurate, timely, and comprehensive information that affects the management and the supply chain of the firm. This is achieved through systems and methodologies, practices and procedures.
Accounting is an integral part of business that has a wide range of responsibilities and uses. It is used to manage financial health and assets of the organization, while providing information to various stakeholders about the state of the organization. Accounting is used to secure appropriate funding, predict the financial health of the organization, provide information to executives and employees, facilitate the preparation of reports, provide estimates, and facilitate the preparation of financial statements. In simple terms, accounting provides decision makers with essential information needed to make sound decisions and evaluate the performance of the organization. Today, organizations understand the importance of accounting and seek the services of experienced accountants who can meet the organizational objectives in terms of growth, profitability, customer satisfaction, return on investment, and so on.
Accounting is an indispensable part of business that determines the financial health of the firm. It is very important that managers, shareholders, employees, and suppliers understand the significance of accounting and the techniques and methods used to prepare and interpret financial statements. Accounting provides necessary information to decision makers for making strategic decisions. Auditors provide objective feedback regarding the accounting process and its effects on the performance of the organization. This enables the organization to achieve desired short, medium and long term goals and also provide accurate financial reports.