In VDBS, accountants generally record, collect, analyse, and report on financial data. In most cases, accountants use the financial records compiled by bookkeepers to prepare financial statements and reports, and to perform financial analysis. In addition to playing this general role, different types of accountants perform different, specialised roles.
The general duties of an accountant may include some or all of the following:
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Compiling financial statements (such as the balance sheet, income statement, and statement of profit and loss).
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Performing financial calculations.
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Reporting on financial performance.
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Analysing financial data to provide organisations with information that will assist in future planning and decision-making.
The role of a financial accountant is to record, summarise and report on the financial transactions of an organisation in such a way that it is possible for someone outside of the organisation to get an accurate picture of the organisation’s financial position and performance.