The digital transformation of corporate reporting – a systematic literature review and avenues for future research

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to provide a systematic literature review (SLR) of the relationship between smart and digital technologies and organisations’ reporting processes, proposing a future research agenda. The paper examines the effects of data and digital technology on the corporate reporting process by analysing the various kinds of reports by organisations. Design/methodology/approach A two-decade assessment of studies was analysed to answer research questions. A SLR explored the role of digital and smart technologies for corporate reporting processes. The Scopus database was used as a leading source for access to the articles. Initially, 163 items were collected. After reading the abstract and several refinements, 43 prioritised publications were analysed and categorised to derive significant results. Findings Results of the analysis highlight the following emerging research streams about the digital transformation of corporate reporting: digital technology for corporate information management and decision-making processes; digital technologies as a tool of stakeholder engagement and sustainable reporting practices; and finally, digital technologies as a way to address earning management, corporate social responsibility, accountability and transparency. Research limitations/implications How digital technology and data analytics may potentially transform the corporate reporting process to make it more effective, resulting in greater transparency for shareholders and all stakeholders. Originality/value The originality of this paper derives from connecting, for the first time, smart and digital technologies and corporate reporting processes, drafting the state of the art of this research topic for future research.