The Impact of Accounting Principles on Managerial Decision-Making in Small and Medium Enterprises

Authors

  • Moustafa Z. Metwalli Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University image/svg+xml Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56830/IJAMS07202504

Keywords:

Accounting Principles, Managerial Decision Making, Small and medium Enterprises

Abstract

Effective accounting practices are crucial for the strategic management of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Yet, many lack essential financial frameworks such as fixed asset registers, cash flow statements, and budgets. This oversight hampers informed decision-making, as management often sets targets without adequate information regarding the costs and benefits of various choices. The paper explores the foundational accounting principles that underpin sound financial reporting, which include Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and their influence on managerial decisions in SMEs. It examines the pivotal role that accounting data plays in guiding operational and long-term strategic planning, offering insights into how accurate financial statements driven by adherence to accounting principles can enhance operational efficiency and performance. Furthermore, non-financial indicators are discussed as they serve as crucial determinants of future financial success. The analysis illustrates how the absence of robust financial reporting can leave managers ill-equipped to navigate strategic directions, emphasizing the importance of integrating accounting practices into the decisionmaking processes. Ultimately, the research highlights the strategic relevance of accounting in SMEs, demonstrating how it supports the achievement of broader organizational objectives through more informed and reliable management practices.

References

Abu Mater, W., & Kanasro, H. (2018). Advanced Managerial Accounting Techniques and Decision Support System. An Empirical Analysis of Small And Medium Enterprises in Jordan. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19044/esj.2018.v14n22p233

Chidinma Maduekwe, C., & Kamala, P. (2016). Performance measurement by small and medium enterprises in Cape Metropolis. South Africa. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21511/ppm.14(2).2016.05

J. Berry, A., Sweeting, R., Goto, J., & Taylor, M. (2022). Financial management practice amongst SMEs.

Kengne, S. (2015). Inhibiting Factors in the Strategic Financial Management Decision Making Process. Evidence from South African SMMEs. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n2p113

Kuntadi, C., Juwanto, C., & Zakaria, M. I. (2023). Factors Affecting the Preparation of Government Financial Statements: Application of Government Accounting Standards, Utilization of Information Technology, and Internal Control System (Literature Review of state Financial Management). Dinasti International Journal of Economics, Finance & Accounting (DIJEFA), 4(2). DOI: https://doi.org/10.38035/dijefa.v4i2.1851

Lasdi, L., & Winda Mulia, T. (2014). Companys internal characteristics, environmental uncertainty, the use of accounting information, and the performance of SMEs. DOI: https://doi.org/10.14414/jebav.v17i1.270

Matsoso, M. L., Nyathi, M., & Nakpodia, F. A. (2021). An assessment of budgeting and budgetary controls among small and medium-sized enterprises: evidence from a developing economy. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JAEE-04-2020-0082

Journal of Accounting in Emerging Economies, 11(4), 552-577.

Mio, C., Costantini, A., & Panfilo, S. (2022). Performance measurement tools for sustainable business: A systematic literature review on the sustainability balanced scorecard use. Corporate social responsibility and environmental management, 29(2), 367-384. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/csr.2206

Mohamad, Z., & Abd. Wahab, K. (2017). The Relationship between Management Accounting Practices and Performance of the Small and Medium Enterprises in Libya. A Proposed Conceptual Framework.

Mulani, J., Chi, G., & Yang, J. (2015). Effects of the budgetary process on SME’s performance: An Exploratory study based on Selected SME’s in India.

Okeke, N. I., Bakare, O. A., & Achumie, G. O. (2024). Forecasting financial stability in SMEs: A comprehensive analysis of strategic budgeting and revenue management. Open Access Research Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies, 8(1), 139-149. DOI: https://doi.org/10.53022/oarjms.2024.8.1.0055

Ombai, P., Kiflemariam, A., & Odollo, L. (2024). Financial and Non-Financial Information on Strategy Management Process; A Systematic Literature Review. Journal of Strategic Management, 8(1), 33-64. DOI: https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t2343

Putri Larasati, I., Sri Andayani, E., Laily, N., & Kholilah, K. (2017). The accounting and financial model from the perspective of micro, small, medium enterprises: does the concepts of knowledge really matter?

Silaen, P., & Tulig, S. (2023). The role of accounting in managing micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs): The case of Indonesia. Australasian Accounting, Business and Finance Journal, 17(2). DOI: https://doi.org/10.14453/aabfj.v17i2.08

Terfasa Dinka, S. (2019). Challenges of Accounting Practices and Its Prospects: Evidence from Small and Medium Enterprises of Selected Districts, South West Shoa Zone. Ethiopia.

Tran, T. M., Truong, H. T., Vu, T. T., & Nguyen, L. G. (2023). Principles of Accounting.

Yousef AL Smirat, B. (2013). The Use of Accounting Information by Small and Medium Enterprises in South District of Jordan. ( An empirical study).

Zarzycka, E., & Krasodomska, J. (2022). Non-financial key performance indicators: what determines the differences in the quality and quantity of the disclosures? Journal of Applied Accounting Research. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JAAR-02-2021-0036

Downloads

Published

2026-03-05

Issue

Section

Articles