Accounting Information Systems (AIS)

← Browse all accounting terms

Accounting glossary · Understand, connect, apply

An accounting information system (AIS) is the people, procedures, data, controls and technology used to collect, process and report accounting information.

Example

A sales system captures invoices, updates receivables and transfers transaction data into the general ledger.

Remember the difference

An AIS can include manual steps. It is broader than a software package and needs reliable controls and data.

Browse the accounting glossary → · Follow a learning path

Updated 3 November 2026. Examples are simplified for learning. Where a term depends on US law, IFRS, US GAAP or a historical rule, check the context explained above and the requirements relevant to your course.

Study references: OpenStax financial accounting and managerial accounting. For reporting requirements, consult the applicable IFRS Standards or FASB guidance. US tax terms should be checked against the relevant tax-year IRS instructions.

← Return to the accounting glossary