Book excerpt: We live in a competitive world dominated almost exclusively by flows of knowledge and information - by technologies designed not only to sustain but also increase the socio-economic need and desire for more and more information. This book offers a unique insight into the nature, role and context of accounting related information within the competitive business environment, and explores how business organisations - in particular companies - use a range of theories, practices, and technologies to manage and control flows of data, information and resources, and maximise the wealth organisational stakeholders. Key aims: promote an understanding of the role of corporate accounting information systems in the maintenance, regulation and control of business related resources develop an appreciation and understanding of the practical issues and organisation problems involved in managing contemporary accounting information systems promote an understanding of the political contexts of contemporary accounting information systems develop a recognition of the importance of information and communication technology in corporate accounting information systems management, development and design promote an understanding of the importance of effective information management and transaction processing controls in reducing risk, and provide a framework for the evaluation of corporate transaction processing cycles, systems and processes. From systems thinking and control theories, to network architectures and topologies, to systems analysis and design, "Corporate Accounting Information Systems" provides students at all levels with a rigorous and lively exploration of a wide range of accounting information systems related issues, and offers a practical insight into the management and control of such systems in today's ever changing technology driven environment.