Leveraging big data for real-time financial oversight in non-profit and government accounting: A framework to empower accountants and improve transparency

The evolving landscape of the accounting profession is increasingly shaped by the integration of big data and advanced analytics, enabling professionals to derive actionable insights, enhance decision-making, and optimize financial oversight (Appelbaum et al., 2017; Vasarhelyi et al., 2015). This study explores how these innovations are transforming financial operations, particularly within non-profit and government organizations, by supporting real-time data processing and improving transparency and accountability (Warren et al., 2015; Smith, 2023). The research highlights how big data technologies allow for efficient anomaly detection, forecasting, and the generation of insights that transcend traditional methods (Cao et al., 2015; Yoon et al., 2015). It also addresses the opportunities and risks these tools present for the accounting profession, including issues of data quality, ethical compliance, and skill gaps (Richins et al., 2017; IFAC, n.d.; North, 2022). Through the lens of empirical studies, industry practices, and academic literature, this paper proposes a practical framework to guide accountants in leveraging big data to provide real-time financial oversight and strategic guidance. As organizations navigate digital transformation, the role of accountants is evolving from historical record-keepers to strategic advisors. This shift necessitates continuous learning, robust data governance, and the ethical use of analytical tools (Wang & Byrd, 2017; IBM, 2023). By embracing big data, accounting professionals can significantly enhance transparency, financial accuracy, and decision-making capacity—particularly in mission-driven sectors where accountability is paramount (PwC, 2022; Deloitte Insights, 2023).