The effects of auditors’ knowledge, professional skepticism, and perceived adequacy of accounting standards on their intention to use blockchain

Abstract

This study examines factors that influence auditors’ intention to use blockchain. From the dual-factor perspective, it argues that auditors’ knowledge about the implications of blockchain for auditing enables their intention to use the technology. However, professional skepticism and perceived adequacy of accounting standards present barriers to the use, which reduce the effect of knowledge on use intention. These claims are tested with a survey of 118 auditors in the U.S. The results show that auditors’ knowledge about blockchain is positively associated with their use intention, indicating their optimism about this technology. Their professional skepticism has no effect on intention, but perceived adequacy of accounting standards has a negative effect, which also weakens the effect of blockchain knowledge on intention, revealing the status quo bias in blockchain use. This study extends the literature on the acceptance of blockchain technology by accounting and auditing professionals by showing how the need to improve accounting standards, which are important attributes of their professional judgments, may influence their blockchain use. It has implications for promoting blockchain among auditors.