Factors affecting the integration of the SAP-financial accounting module into an accounting curriculum: evidence from a gulf-based university

Abstract

The present research investigates the underlying factors that affect the implementation of the systems, applications and productions in financial accounting (SAP FI) module in an accounting curriculum. The study was carried out by using a survey questionnaire regarding six factors, namely, knowledge, complexity, usability, usefulness, satisfaction and future career, that affect the implementation of the SAP FI module. Business students (who have a major or minor in accounting) studying at the College of Business and Economics at Qatar University participated in this study. The results of the study found that the students were satisfied; they perceived that learning SAP FI was useful and that it had a strong impact on their future careers. All factors were found to be statistically significant in affecting the implementation of SAP FI. While the implantation efforts so far have been satisfying, various challenges persist. The study concluded that a first time SAP FI implementation is quite challenging from human, logistic and administrative perspectives, leaving room for more future improvements in terms of increasing the level of awareness and knowledge among the faculty and students. The study also recommends considering incorporating other SAP modules in other college curricula (e.g., management, operations, marketing, human resources, finances).