Use of artificial intelligence in ERP, accounting, assurance and finance: A literature review

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed the domains of enterprise resource planning, accounting, assurance, and finance. This study presents a systematic literature review examining the applications, impacts, opportunities, and challenges associated with AI adoption in these fields. Drawing on over 300 peer-reviewed studies published between 1989 and 2020, the paper analyzes how AI technologies such as machine learning, expert systems, intelligent agents, and deep learning enhance efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making in accounting and financial processes. The review highlights AI’s role in automating routine tasks, improving audit quality, strengthening fraud detection, and supporting financial forecasting and tax compliance. Despite these benefits, the study also identifies critical concerns related to data bias, ethical implications, information security, and workforce displacement. The findings indicate that while AI cannot fully replace professional judgment, it is reshaping the accounting profession toward more strategic and analytical roles, thereby creating new research and practice opportunities.