Keywords

Robotic Process Automation (RPA); internal controls; governance; framework

Abstract

Although robotic process automation (RPA) usage is growing rapidly in accounting, concerns are emerging regarding the internal controls and overall governance structure surrounding RPA. To help address these concerns, we use a design science research approach and work with a Fortune 500 company to develop an RPA governance framework. The framework consists of 4 governance areas and 14 control requirements, which help maximize the benefits and minimize the risks associated with the use of RPA. We validate that the framework is useful and generalizable to many organizations by presenting the framework to and subsequently interviewing and surveying 84 professionals at different organizations, including internal and external auditors, chief audit executives at several multinational corporations, academics, accounting and finance professionals, and other RPA stakeholders. Their feedback suggests the framework is successful in achieving its objectives.

Original Publication Citation

Eulerich, M., N. Waddoups, M. Wagener, and D. A. Wood. 2024. Development of a framework of key internal control and governance principles for robotic process automation (RPA). Journal of Information Systems, 38 (2): 29-49. DOI: 10.2308/ISYS-2023-067.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2024

Publisher

Journal of Information Systems

Language

English

College

Marriott School of Business

Department

Accountancy

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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Accounting Commons

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