Analyzing the digital competency gap among accountants in light of the implementation of digital transformation: A field study in the banking sector

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the digital competency gap among accountants in light of the implementation of digital transformation in the banking sector. This was conducted through a field study targeting a sample of (131) accountants in Iraqi banks. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach and used a questionnaire designed based on global digital competency models and previous studies. The results showed a statistically significant gap between current digital competency and the desired level, with the overall average of current digital competency reaching (3.28) compared to the desired level of (3.67). The gap also showed that it varied according to academic qualifications, with master's and doctoral degree holders achieving higher levels of digital competency compared to other qualifications. The results showed that the most prominent causes of the digital competency gap are the lack of continuous training in digital skills, traditional university curricula that do not cover modern skills, and the rapid development of technology. The study also demonstrated that the digital competency gap negatively impacts the quality of accounting work in terms of increased accounting errors, delayed completion of work, weak ability to detect financial manipulation, and high operating costs. The study recommends the development of specialized training programs and updating university curricula to include digital analysis skills and artificial intelligence tools, with the aim of bridging the digital gap and improving accountants' readiness for the requirements of digital transformation in the banking sector.