The scope of the accounting function in project management

ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The project accounting function is not adequately defined in project management and accounting textbooks. The objectives of this study were to identify the capabilities and potential involvement of the management and financial accountant in project management and to compare these with the responsibilities of the project accountant. A literature study was done. Shortcomings of conventional accounting techniques when applied in proj ect management were identified. This study concluded that the management and financial accountant, combined, is not equivalent to the project accountant. There are certain functions for which the management and financial accountant are qualified, which will not easily be fulfilled by the project accountant. Similarly neither the management nor the financial accountant fully defines the responsibilities of the project accountant and his or her responsibilities would normally include responsibilities other than conventional management and financial accounting. It was not found possible to draw up a list of generic responsibilities for the project accountant. The findings of this study give rise to the possible need for training in dedicated project accounting skills and the development of a professional project accounting qualification. The need for further empirical research was identified.