THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON ACCOUNTING PRACTICES: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF PROFESSIONAL ACCEPTANCE AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES

This study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing accounting practices, using primary data collected from 150 accounting practitioners. The study uses a quantitative method having a structured questionnaire to explore AI adoption patterns, perceived benefits of AI implementation, as well as implementation challenges encountered and professional acceptance of AI in accounting practice, as informed by occupational level. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), with post hoc tests, t-test comparisons along with regression analysis mandated the identification of significant relationships between the study variables. The study concluded that even with barriers to implementation - like cost, training and available technological infrastructure - AI increases efficiency and accuracy in accounting practice. This study continues the discussion around AI adoption in accounting practice and provides implications for practitioners and policy makers when considering AI implementation within their accounting practices.