Abstract

The aim of this work is to study the main factors that influence the collaboration between the firm and a cost specialist. The paper highlights key aspects of administrative accountings activities performed by Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and factors that differentiate them due to their nature and small size.  Empirical research was conducted through questionnaires to Greek small and micro (very small) firms. Data were processed through a multiple regression analysis, while the results emphasize the importance and utilization of administrative accounting practices and tools. The importance of accounting skills and procedures were found less significant inside a firm but vital for the accounting specialists cooperating with management. Results demonstrate a shift of decision making from owners to accountants and specialists, elevating them as partners responsible for administrative and cost accounting strategies. The application of cost accounting practices combined with knowledge of which skills SMEs owners should hone, allows better collaborations with experts. Finding balance between management and administrative accounting, together with the required accounting background of both parts can significantly reduce communication and cost related miscalculations. The study shows shifts in significance of traditionally important factors of administrative accounting. However, further research is needed to highlight the nature behind each fluctuation. The present study highlights a particular shift from the need of key accounting skills, formerly indicative of SMEs managers, to closer collaboration with administrative accounting experts and their emergence as responsible for cost strategies implementation.

Key words: Small business, micro business, costing, managerial accounting, cost accounting, administrative accounting.