QUESTION 1

(1) All accounting information systems (AIS) have common set of basic characteristics. Particular information systems, however may differ greatly with respect to specifics. Identify and discuss the similarities and differences likely to exist between the AISs employed by Toyota Motor Company and by an individual general practitioner (GP) in their medical practice.[8 marks]

(2) Assume that you hold each of the following positions:

a) Managerial accountant in a firm's accounting department.

b) Auditor in a public accounting firm.

c) Financial accountant in a firm's production department.

How would you make use of accounting information systems and participate in their development in each of these positions?[6 marks]

(3) Indicate how differences in their firm's environments may lead to differences in the accounting information systems of the following pairs:

a) A toy manufacturer versus a public utility.

b) A governmental agency versus a public accounting firm.

[10 marks]

[Total marks Question 1 = 24 marks]