The Impact of Digital Innovation on Accounting Practices: The Case of Romanian Public Schools

Today, digitalization has covered all areas of the social system. The introduction of innovative technologies and ERP systems in the accounting field helps significantly increase the efficiency of financial management. At the same time, certain industries, such as public schools in Romania, still do not take full advantage of accounting automation. This article examines the adoption of accounting automation through ERP solutions in university educational institutions in Romania and explores the advantages and obstacles that come with this shift. In this study, a thorough analysis of the data collected through the survey was carried out. A questionnaire with questions was sent to 100 educational colleges in Romania. The questionnaire contained questions aimed at gathering information about the level of automation, the types of technology used, the difficulties faced and the benefits. Institutions of various sizes with various funding sources - from regular to high schools - were chosen for the study. Implementing automated accounting systems in institutions in Romania has shown noticeable benefits, enhancing efficiency and transparency while ensuring accuracy in operations. However, limited financial resources and inadequate digital expertise challenge the adoption of ERP technologies and other sophisticated solutions. The study results show that digitalization levels differ significantly across education levels, with high and secondary schools being the most digitized, while pre-kindergarten and primary schools lag in adoption. Key obstacles include constraints and a shortage of expertise, particularly impacting high school and secondary educational establishments. The research provides recommendations to enhance the digitalization process in Romania's pre-university educational institutions.