Final answer:
True, managerial accountants in most companies have transitioned from doing routine mechanical accounting tasks to engaging in more strategic, analytical roles due to automation and outsourcing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that managerial accountants no longer perform routine mechanical accounting tasks in most companies is generally true. With the advent of automation and advanced software, many of the traditional accounting tasks have been streamlined or eliminated. In today's business environment, managerial accountants are expected to take on a more strategic role, analyzing financial data to aid in decision-making, and contributing to business strategy, rather than just keeping the books.
Outsourcing has impacted various sectors, reducing the number of jobs available in both blue-collar and white-collar sectors. It has affected manufacturing jobs as well as low-level clerical and support positions, and even roles such as computer programmers have been outsourced to other countries. This shift in business practices has necessitated a change in the role of managerial accountants, as they need to adapt to an environment where other factors, such as global competition and consolidation through mergers, have a significant impact on business success.