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Accounting Research Tools

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TOPIC: THE RESEARCH PROCESS – RESEARCH TOOLS
When attempting to find resolution to accounting issues, a key component of the research process is being aware of and utilizing research tools. Research tools may consist of many types of media, resources, and viewpoints. Because accounting is ever evolving, it is imperative to know where to go to remain informed of relevant changes and clarifications.
The AICPA & PCAOB websites can be good places to start. There are links to white papers, exposure drafts, articles, accounting and auditing standards, and areas of interest like XBRL. Additionally, the Big 4 accounting firms publish guidance, interpretations, and literature in their public online libraries. There is also accounting research software, one of which is called “Accounting Research Manager, the ultimate research tool.”1 This software provides updated information from FASB, AICPA, the FASB’s EITF (Emerging Issues Task Force), IASB, and industry-specific guidance.1 Also, IASPlus.com and IFRS.com are useful research tool websites when exploring current events and international accounting. EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) is an online, publicly accessible tool best used when researching US SEC registrants and their filings. Lastly, any search engine, such as Google, can be helpful when navigating the rough waters of online research.
As graduate students, we find that professors can be a wonderful resource. They are passionate about their particular accounting niche and are eager to share their knowledge and opinions of accounting rulings and ongoing controversial matters. In addition, many are members of trade organizations, such as the ACFE, which hold monthly meetings for networking and information sharing and gathering purposes. Professors also spend a percentage of their time doing actual accounting research. Their research

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