Factors influencing artificial intelligence implementation in the accounting industry: a comparative study among private and public sectors

Purpose This study aims to investigate the factors affecting artificial intelligence (AI) implementation in the accounting industry and compares it among the private and public accounting sectors. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a theoretical framework that combines the technology–organization–environment model, the innovation diffusion theory model and the technology acceptance model. A convenience sampling method was used to obtain 561 surveys from accounting, finance management, auditing and bookkeeping professionals in public and private organizations in Kuwait. The data were analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings This study demonstrates that all individual and organizational variables significantly affect AI implementation in the accounting industry, as supported by adequate values of path coefficient and a p-value of <0.05, except competitive pressure, which did not reach statistical significance. Multi-group analysis indicates statistical differences between the private and public sectors regarding organizational culture, regulatory support and perceived ease of use in AI implementation. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to compare AI implementation in the private and public accounting sectors. Its findings could redesign the authors’ understanding of AI implementation in the accounting industry.