Purpose Despite the growing importance of big data analytics (BDA), limited evidence exists on its impact on management accounting systems (MAS) effectiveness and, ultimately, firm performance. This study aims to address this gap by empirically investigating the relationship between BDA, MAS effectiveness and firm performance. Specifically, this study examines the mediating role of MAS effectiveness between BDA and both financial and non-financial performance. Design/methodology/approach This study analysed 169 survey responses from Bangladeshi manufacturing firms using partial least squares structural equation modelling. Findings The results demonstrate that BDA utilisation significantly enhances MAS effectiveness, which subsequently improves financial and non-financial performance. Furthermore, the findings confirm that MAS effectiveness mediates the relationship between BDA and both financial and non-financial performance. Research limitations/implications The findings suggest valuable guidance for managers in leveraging BDA and MAS effectiveness to enhance decision-making, as well as improve both financial and non-financial performance. Finally, the study acknowledges its limitations and proposes directions for future research. Originality/value While several accounting studies have discussed the role of big data in management accounting, there is a notable absence of empirical research. This study advances theoretical development and contributes to the limited body of management accounting literature by providing new insights into the relationship between BDA and MAS effectiveness. Furthermore, this paper makes a significant contribution by investigating the mediating effect of MAS effectiveness and integrating technological and accounting dimensions.
Hossain et al. (Wed,) studied this question.