Alternative Methods of Accounting Essay

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alternative accounting methods that have become increasingly popular. There are various merits and demerits of obtaining each of the accounting method for a firm however a company must choose the accounting method carefully as it proves to be a vital decision for the success of a company.

Accounting Methods are the guidelines and the basic rules based on which the businesses prepare and maintain their financial records. There have been a vast development in the accounting methods and practices over the years; however the two main accounting methods remain the same which are a) IRFS (International Financial Reporting Standards) b) U.S. GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principle)

IRFS (International Financial Reporting Standards) were deigned to cater to the globalization of the businesses by providing an accounting method which is comparable and understandable beyond the regional boundaries. It was initiated to standardize the accounting methods for European nations by the European Council, the concept soon picked up pace and now is followed all around the world. U.S. GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) is an accounting method accepted by the CPA Corporations and firms who adapt the guidelines and standards made by GAAP.

In recent times many companies have manipulated their earnings by adopting or switching to different accounting methods by remaining transparent to their shareholders. However this technique has also been abused by many as a tool for deceiving the investors and stakeholders. A change in the accounting method may cause a significant change in the tax payable, and the cash liabilities. It is important for a firm to follow the legal procedures in order to switch the accounting methods. The consent of the Commissioner is a must for any firm to obtain before switching the accounting method.

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There are certain rules and regulations set by the International Revenue Service which makes sure that any firm is not able to deceive its shareholders and investors by providing a framework for the change in the method.

Question # 2:

GAAP poses great amount of challenges to new entrants and small players. The small businesses with limited resources always face a really tough time in order to meet the GAAP standards which will make it hard for the startup technology business to comply with the GAAP standards. It is the responsibility of a form to provide the accurate and relevant accounting information to its shareholders so that they can have a look at the true picture of the performance of the business. These financial statements serve as a monetary measure for the shareholders to decide on the performance and the future investment decisions and the management decisions as well.

Business managers can minimize the impact of the financial performances through the compliance with the correct and suitable accounting methods. It is important to understand for a firm to realize the benefits of the accounting methods and how the various models can work in their favor.

Small business should decide on an accounting method according to the legal form of the firm, credit policies, sales, tax policies etc. A certain part of record keeping is required by the law and tax policies; however the main benefit of meeting a particular international standard is that the managers can make useful strategic decisions based on those financial statements. The accounting methods can be changed but it is an extremely complex process therefore a small….....

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