Accounting Research in the Cornell Quarterly: A Review with Suggestions for Future Research

Abstract

An analysis of accounting-related articles published in the Cornell Hospitality Quarterly shows a shift from prescription to description, with an increasing use of scientific research methods. The authors found that the literature has examined the industry’s use of the Uniform System of Accounts, cost management, and management control systems, including the effects of nonfinancial measures and the balanced scorecard. Although a uniform system of accounts offers consistency, it may limit a hotel manager’s ability to match costs with departmental revenues. Budgeting and capital budgeting are particularly difficult issues for the hospitality industry, due to the fact that most hotels involve independent parties as ownership and management. One oddity of the hospitality industry is that few managers adjust budgets to reflect operational outcomes. In addition to their review, the authors provide suggestions for future research.