Regardless of the size or economic activity of the entities, they require information for decision making, in accordance with the NIF Such information must be:

• True,
• reliable,
• comparable, and
• timely

In this article we will define key points regarding accounting systems and information with reference to the Financial Reporting Standards (NIF) 2024.

What is a system?

To understand what an accounting information system is, we will start by defining a "system". According to Bertalanffy (1968), a system is:

 "a set of interrelated and interdependent elements that act upon each other to achieve a common goal."

That is, a system is a group of connected elements that depend on each other, collaborating to achieve a common goal.

One of the main objectives of an accounting information system is the production of financial information.

What is accounting?

The NIF in its Conceptual Framework (CF) defines accounting as:

“The technique used to compile records of transactions and other events that economically affect an entity and that systematically and structuredly produces financial information that is incorporated in the financial statements.”

The above means that accounting is the process used to record all operations and events that impact a company's resources. This information is organized in a structured manner and used to create financial reports, which show the entity's financial situation.

What is an accounting information system?

Combining the last two definitions we can define a “accounting information system” What:

“The accounting system is a set of interrelated and interdependent elements that act together to compile, process and report financial information about the economic transactions and events of an entity.

This system produces structured and systematic information that is incorporated into financial statements, allowing stakeholders (such as managers, investors and regulators) to make informed decisions and achieve common economic objectives.”

In essence, the accounting system not only focuses on data collection, but also on its analysis and presentation, facilitating the understanding of the entity's performance and financial situation.

Examples of accounting systems in Mexico

Some of the popular accounting systems in Mexico are:

1. CONTPAQi: One of the most popular systems in Mexico, it offers accounting and tax solutions adapted to the SAT, such as electronic invoicing, payroll, accounting and inventory management.
2. Aspel IOC: Comprehensive accounting system that allows you to keep accounting books, generate financial statements, bank reconciliations and comply with Mexican tax requirements, such as sending electronic accounting to the SAT.
3. Bind ERP: Cloud platform designed for small and medium-sized businesses in Mexico, with accounting, payroll, billing and inventory management modules.

Conclusions

Accounting information systems (AIS) allow for the recording and processing of financial data in an automated manner, which improves decision-making, facilitates compliance with tax regulations and optimizes operational efficiency.

 These systems reduce errors, increase information security and are scalable, allowing companies to adapt to their growth.

In addition, they centralize information, ensuring its integrity and facilitating internal control, which is crucial for the financial success of any organization.