Computerized Accounting Systems and Financial Management Efficiency in Manufacturing Firms in Enugu State

The adoption of computerized accounting systems (CAS) has been widely advocated as a means of improving financial management efficiency in manufacturing firms, yet empirical evidence specifically examining this relationship within Enugu State's manufacturing sector remains limited in recent literature. This study examined the effect of computerized accounting systems on financial management efficiency in manufacturing firms in Enugu State, with focus on firms registered under the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Enugu State chapter. The study was grounded in the systems theory, which conceptualizes organizations as interconnected components where information system quality influences overall organizational output quality. A survey research design was adopted, with a population of 276 financial managers, accountants, and information technology officers in 18 selected firms. A sample of 163 was drawn using proportionate stratified sampling. A structured questionnaire validated through expert review and pilot testing was administered, and data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Findings indicated that CAS adoption significantly improved speed of financial report generation, accuracy of accounts payable and receivable management, and overall cost tracking effectiveness. Firms with fully integrated CAS reported higher financial management efficiency scores compared to those using partially automated or manual systems. The study concluded that CAS adoption is a material driver of financial management efficiency in manufacturing firms. It was recommended that the Enugu State Investment and Development Authority should facilitate affordable enterprise resource planning software access for manufacturing SMEs through technology partnership programs.

Keywords: Computerized accounting systems, financial management efficiency, manufacturing firms, systems theory, enterprise resource planning