Digital Accounting Systems in Small Retail Enterprises: A Systematic Review of Cost-Benefit Analysis

Main Article Content

Yihan Zhang
Nanjing Audit University, International Joint Audit School, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China

DOI: https://doi.org/10.70267/icfmb.202619323330

Keywords

digital accounting systems, small retail enterprises, cost-benefit analysis, systematic review, contingent customization

Abstract

This systematic review investigates the cost-benefit dynamics of digital accounting systems (DAS) adoption in small retail enterprises. It aims to address the critical information asymmetry faced by these businesses by deconstructing the cost structures, quantifying the multi-dimensional benefits, and identifying optimal implementation strategies across three key subsectors: convenience stores, hardware stores, and new retail formats (e.g., unmanned kiosks). The study employs a systematic literature review methodology, synthesizing evidence from 34 academic articles and case studies, supplemented by meta-analysis to derive industry-wide performance benchmarks. The analysis reveals significant subsector-specific disparities. Cost structures range from lightweight SaaS subscriptions in convenience stores to integrated inventory-accounting modules in hardware stores and scenario-specific deployments in new retail. Quantifiable benefits are substantial, demonstrating 30-80% labor cost savings, 18-28% inventory turnover improvements, and near-elimination of compliance penalties. One of the main findings is that an organization's digital readiness has a positive effect on benefit realization. Consequently, the “one-size-fits-all” approach is ineffective. The synthesized optimization strategy emphasizes “contingent customization”: convenience stores should prioritize multi-store data consolidation, hardware stores require inventory-finance integration, and new retail needs automated bookkeeping for high-frequency transactions. In conclusion, this review constructs a differentiated cost-benefit framework that moves beyond generic models. It provides small retail decision-makers with actionable, evidence-based guidance for system selection and implementation, advocating for tailored solutions that align with specific operational profiles and strategic objectives to maximize return on digital investment.

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Published
Jul 29, 2026
Conference Proceedings Volume
Vol. 19 (2026): Proceedings of 2026 International Conference on Financial Technology, Mathematical Statistics, and Business Analytics (ICFMB 2026) - Part 1
Section
Articles
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Zhang, Yihan. “Digital Accounting Systems in Small Retail Enterprises: A Systematic Review of Cost-Benefit Analysis”. Exploring Science Academic Conference Series, vol. 19, July 2026, pp. 323-30, https://doi.org/10.70267/icfmb.202619323330.