This workshop looks at how accounting packages such as MYOB can act as an accounting information system (AIS). The workshop will briefly overview what an accounting information system is; particularly identifying the requirement of the system to produce business intelligence and value added information or processes. The aim is then to explore (hands-on) the various MYOB command centres to identify where business intelligence exists and where the program value adds for business. It is suggested that such an activity is ideally what students will be able to explore and do. The business intelligence and value added concepts will include reflection on the large amount of information available from the MYOB system; this includes a wide range of reports, customer database communication, marketing and budgeting information and automation features. Participants are encouraged to bring along laptops with the MYOB software loaded.

This AIS approach differs from the current teaching focus taken in the 501 Accounting Practices paper, which tends to concentrate on transactional processing and the preparation of financial statements. The author is suggesting a refocus or rejuvenation of the prescription to incorporate an AIS approach. This will help meet the growing needs of business for business intelligence collected from the accounting system.