Abstract
This case study examines the implementation of open book accounting (OBA) within a medium sized
construction company, operating in a strained relationship with a strategic client. The purpose of the research is to
evaluate how financial transparency can enhance collaboration, reduce costs, and strengthen trust between partners.
The adopted methodology follows a six stage qualitative analysis: initial diagnosis, definition of the transparency
framework, establishment of governance mechanisms, technological implementation, piloting on a real project, and
evaluation of outcomes. The results indicate that OBA significantly reduced contractual disputes, improved the
accuracy of cost estimates, accelerated decision making processes, and reinforced the supplier–client relationship. The
study confirms existing literature suggesting that OBA can generate competitive advantages by increasing trust,
optimizing processes, and fostering innovation. The conclusions highlight the critical role of governance,
digitalization, and organizational culture in the effective implementation of OBA.
construction company, operating in a strained relationship with a strategic client. The purpose of the research is to
evaluate how financial transparency can enhance collaboration, reduce costs, and strengthen trust between partners.
The adopted methodology follows a six stage qualitative analysis: initial diagnosis, definition of the transparency
framework, establishment of governance mechanisms, technological implementation, piloting on a real project, and
evaluation of outcomes. The results indicate that OBA significantly reduced contractual disputes, improved the
accuracy of cost estimates, accelerated decision making processes, and reinforced the supplier–client relationship. The
study confirms existing literature suggesting that OBA can generate competitive advantages by increasing trust,
optimizing processes, and fostering innovation. The conclusions highlight the critical role of governance,
digitalization, and organizational culture in the effective implementation of OBA.
Cuvinte cheie
Open book accounting
transparency
target costing
competitive advantage
Istoric articol
Publicat
26.06.2026
Informații autori
Citare recomandată
GABRIEL POPESCU, SORINEL CĂPUȘNEANU, ALINA GEORGIANA SOLOMON, ALINA IOANA CONSTANTIN (2026). OPEN BOOK ACCOUNTING: FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY AS THE NEW COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE. Constantin Brâncuși University of Târgu Jiu Economics Series, 1(3), 180–189. https://doi.org/10.65631/jes.3.2026.15
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