APPLICATION OF AGILE METHODS IN THE ADOPTION OF ACCOUNTING STANDARDS: THE CASE OF THE ADOPTION OF IFRS 16 IN PETROBRAS

Abstract

With the convergence process to international accounting standards, from 2010, it was observed that the publication of several standards required companies to make great implementation efforts. The literature points to the consequences of IFRS adoption. However, it is silent about the practical adoption process, especially with the association of the use of agile methods, which are a set of effective practices that intends to allow fast and high-quality deliveries, having a business approach that aligns the development of the project with the needs of the client and the objectives of the company. The research included adopting the IFRS 16 standard by Petrobras using the Scrum method, in which we interviewed the members of the adoption project team. The study demonstrated that agile methods could apply to adopting accounting standards, with acceptance and understanding of the assumptions of agile methods by project participants. Thus, it was possible to conclude that Petrobras's use of agile methods for adopting IFRS 16 was adequate, paving the way for this methodology to facilitate the adoption of new standards to be issued by regulatory agencies. The implications consist of consigning in the accounting literature the use of agile methods in adopting accounting standards, not only in large companies but also in medium and small companies, in accounting, consulting offices, and academia.