JOURNAL ARTICLE

Data Analytics and Operational Efficiency.

  • Published In: Accounting Horizons, 2026, v. 40, n. 1. P. 71 1 of 3

  • Database: Business Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Kausar, Asad; Lim, Jee-Hae; Park, You-il 3 of 3

Abstract

SYNOPSIS: In a hand-collected sample of U.S. public firms from 2004 to 2018, we investigate the impact of data analytics (DA) adoption on future operational efficiency. Utilizing a propensity score matching difference-in-differences methodology, we find that DA adoption leads to significantly higher one-year ahead operational efficiency, as measured by data envelopment analysis. This positive effect persists for at least two years, and both basic and advanced analytics adoption contribute to this improvement. Furthermore, we find that one-year ahead return on assets and asset turnover are improved for DA-adopting firms, without increasing capital expenditure or cost of goods sold, and potentially even reducing employee salaries or marketing-related expenses. Cross-sectional analyses reveal that the benefits of DA adoption are particularly pronounced for firms operating in more complex or informationally uncertain environments. Our findings provide valuable insights for managers seeking to leverage DA to enhance operational efficiency and achieve sustainable long-term performance gains. Data Availability: Data are available from the public sources cited in the text. JEL Classifications: L20; M10; M15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:Accounting Horizons. 2026/03, Vol. 40, Issue 1, p71
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Business and Management
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0888-7993
  • DOI:10.2308/HORIZONS-2022-164
  • Accession Number:191990191
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