Osama El-Temtamy, Munir Majdalawieh and Lela Pumphrey
This purpose of this paper is to assess information technology (IT) disaster recovery plans (DRPs) in publicly listed companies on Abu Dhabi securities exchange (ADX) in the…
Abstract
Purpose
This purpose of this paper is to assess information technology (IT) disaster recovery plans (DRPs) in publicly listed companies on Abu Dhabi securities exchange (ADX) in the United Arab Emirates. The authors assessed, among other things, DRP preparedness, documentation, employees’ preparedness and awareness and the most significant physical and logical risks that pose the most threads to drive the development of the DRP, etc.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors surveyed publicly listed companies on the ADX using a questionnaire adapted from past research papers as well as from audit programs published by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association. The surveys were completed through interviews with middle and senior management familiar with their firm’s IT practices.
Findings
The majority of the respondents reported having a DRP, and a significant number of the respondents reported that their top management were extremely committed to their DRP. Employees were generally aware of their role and the existence of the DRP. The greatest risk/threat to their organization’s IT system was logical risk followed closely by power and network connectivity loss as the second highest physical risk. The most highly ranked consequence of an IT disaster was loss of confidence in the organization.
Research limitations/implications
Because this paper only examined publicly listed companies on ADX, the research results may lack generality. Therefore, further research is needed in this area for determining the extent of the deployment of the DRP in the region.
Practical implications
Results of this paper could be used for IT DRP planning bench-marking purposes.
Originality/value
This paper adds value to research by investigating the current IT DRP practices by public companies listed on ADX.
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Lela D. Pumphrey and Gil Crain
In 2004, City of Gardena was unable to meet its obligations on $26 million in debt. The authors examined City of Gardena financial reporting as of June 30, 2004 and 2003 to…
Abstract
In 2004, City of Gardena was unable to meet its obligations on $26 million in debt. The authors examined City of Gardena financial reporting as of June 30, 2004 and 2003 to determine if the publicly available financial reports adequately disclosed the situation. Information about the long-term debt was properly displayed in the financial statements and disclosed in notes. There was no mention of the situation in the MD&A either year. The auditors’ did not include an explanatory paragraph highlighting the debt, nor did they issue a ‘substantial doubt about the ability to continue to exist as a going concern’ report. This paper examines existing accounting and auditing standards to determine their adequacy to protect the public interest.
Peter J. Frischmann, Lela D. “Kitty” Pumphrey and Mukunthan Santhanakrishnan
This instructional tool enhances coverage of statement of cash flows topics in graduate or upper division undergraduate accounting and finance courses.
Abstract
Purpose
This instructional tool enhances coverage of statement of cash flows topics in graduate or upper division undergraduate accounting and finance courses.
Methodology/approach
We review one of the complexities of preparing the statement of cash flows. The exercise may include a discussion of the mechanics of preparation of the statement of cash flows using the indirect method. This discussion might include rationales behind operating section adjustments and highlight the pitfalls of using these adjustments without understanding their reasons. Preparation of a statement of cash flows may be followed by introducing the concept of nonarticulation and how it can cause the information presented in the statement to be misleading. To further understanding, the instructor may introduce the reconciliation worksheet provided. Finally, a current public company example, also provided, highlights the magnitude of nonarticulation in practice.
Findings/practical implications
Students learn the complexities related to the preparation of the statement of cash flows. They are introduced to the concept of nonarticulation using an example of public company financial statements. Student feedback suggests appreciation for developing a deeper understanding of the statement of cash flows, learning why they are unable to replicate disclosed operating cash flow from balance sheets of publicly traded companies.
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Kenneth J. Trimmer, Lela D. “Kitty” Pumphrey and Carla Wiggins
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems provide organizations with the opportunity to integrate individual, functionally‐oriented information systems. Although much of the…
Abstract
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems provide organizations with the opportunity to integrate individual, functionally‐oriented information systems. Although much of the focus in the popular press has been placed on ERP systems in large for‐profit organizations, small hospitals and clinics are candidates for ERP systems. Focusing information systems on critical success factors (CSFs) allows the organization to address a limited number of areas associated with performance. This limited number of factors can provide management with an insight into dimensions of information that must be addressed by a system. Focuses on CSFs for small health‐care organizations. In addition, also considers factors critical to the implementation of health‐care information systems. Presents two cases. The results indicate support for the continuing use of CSFs to help focus on the benefits of ERPs. Focusing on groups of tangible and intangible benefits can also assist the rural health‐care organization in the use of ERPs.