Final answer:
Computer skills for accountants are critical because automation is prevalent in accounting and computers handle tasks more efficiently. As industries evolve towards digital and information-based models, accountants must adapt to remain effective.
Step-by-step explanation:
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) has noted the increasing importance of computer skills for accountants. This is especially true because c) Automation is increasingly prevalent in accounting. The trend towards automation in the workplace has made it necessary for accountants to be well-versed in computer systems. Automation allows for routine tasks, such as bookkeeping and clerical work, to be done more efficiently and cost-effectively by computers rather than by people. This shift is evident in many areas of daily life and business, including supermarkets employing self-scan checkouts where fewer cashiers are needed to supervise multiple aisles.
Furthermore, the integration of computers in various industries continues to revolutionize how goods and services are produced and delivered. For instance, in the music and film industries, the distribution model has moved from producing physical CDs and DVDs to digital streaming and downloads, demonstrating the shift towards a lower physical manufacturing cost and a focus on digital information. As such, it is clear that an understanding of computerized systems is essential for accountants to adapt to the evolving economic landscape in which information and digital proficiency have become critical assets.