Blockchain technology has gained increasing attention for its potential to transform accounting and auditing practices by enhancing transparency, data integrity, and process efficiency. This study examines how blockchain is being applied within accounting and auditing functions in U.S. firms and explores its implications for professional practice. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through survey questionnaires administered to managers from 23 accounting and internal auditing departments across a range of organizations. The findings indicate that blockchain is used for multiple purposes, including digital document authentication, smart contract execution, digital asset registration, payment processing, transaction verification, and the development of verifiable audit trails. The scope and intensity of blockchain adoption varied across industry sectors. Participants reported notable improvements at the transactional level of accounting, enabling accountants to review a greater volume of transactions originating from multiple areas within their organizations. Overall, the findings indicate that blockchain adoption is beginning to influence several aspects of accounting and auditing practice, particularly through improved transaction traceability, faster reporting cycles, and more reliable audit trails.
Jr et al. (Sat,) studied this question.