EXPLORING THE ATTITUDES OF CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS TOWARDS CLOUD COMPUTING: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Cloud computing holds immense significance in modern accounting as it fundamentally changes the way financial data is stored, processed, and accessed. Unlike traditional accounting systems that require on-premises infrastructure, cloud-based platforms enable accountants to access information from anywhere, at any time, using any internet-enabled device. This enhances flexibility and supports remote work, a feature that has gained increased importance in the post-pandemic era. This study investigates the perceptions of chartered accountants in Ahmedabad towards cloud computing in accounting and examines the relationship between their demographic profiles and their perceptions. A sample of 123 chartered accountants was surveyed using a structured questionnaire to assess their views on the benefits, challenges, and overall utility of cloud-based accounting systems. The findings reveal a predominantly positive attitude towards cloud computing, with respondents highlighting improvements in efficiency, accuracy, flexibility, and real-time reporting. However, concerns related to data privacy, security, and dependency on internet connectivity remain significant barriers to full-scale adoption. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, professional bodies, and technology providers to develop targeted strategies that address these challenges, encourage adoption, and maximise the benefits of cloud-based solutions for the accounting profession in India.