Role of Accountants in Developing and Using Management Accounting Systems (MAS) of SMEs in Pakistan: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Accountants play a critical role in SMEs by giving strategic advices in accounting and finance matters. They are considered significant resources in the uplifting performance of SMEs because employing accountants may assist in addressing SME constraints. In this regard, this research aims to explore the role of accountants in developing and using management accounting systems in SMEs to ensure the sustainable survival of SMEs in Pakistan. A qualitative research design was incorporated, and data were gathered from 16 semistructured interviews. Furthermore, some observations and documentary evidence were collected for data triangulation purposes. Thematic analysis was performed for qualitative data analysis. Findings have revealed that SME owners have employed accountants for strategic advice purposes. Furthermore, accountants have portrayed dynamic capabilities in the context of developing and using management accounting systems in SMEs. These accountants' dynamic capabilities have ensured the sustainable survivability of SMEs. This is one of the earlier studies in the context of Pakistani SMEs where accountants were involved in developing and using management accounting systems by portraying dynamic capabilities.