Identifying Barriers to the Development of Automated Financial Reporting Systems in Organizations

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the barriers to developing automated financial reporting systems in organizations. This qualitative study employed a qualitative content analysis approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 financial and IT experts from organizations in Tehran. A purposive sampling method was used, and data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. The data were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding in NVivo software. The results indicated that the barriers to developing automated financial reporting systems are categorized into four main areas: organizational barriers, technological barriers, financial barriers, and legal and regulatory barriers. Key barriers identified in this study included employee resistance to change, weak organizational culture, lack of senior management support, IT infrastructure issues, system integration complexities, security concerns, budget constraints, maintenance costs, and legal challenges related to data management. The findings suggest that successful development of automated financial reporting systems requires addressing organizational resistance, strengthening IT infrastructure, securing adequate financial resources, and establishing clear regulations. Strategic approaches in organizational culture, employee training, and senior management support can facilitate the adoption of these systems in organizations.