6. Overview of sub-projects

The research project deals with the significance of IFRS in Swiss law. It is divided into three sub-projects which are to be implemented individually and which, while belonging together in relation to IFRS, nonetheless deal with separate issues:

The first sub-project investigates the influence of IFRS on commercial accounting regulations. This influence can be exerted through direct references, or equivalent application when determining commercial law and proper accounting principles.

The second sub-project is linked to the first sub-project; it examines whether it is possible to prepare the annual financial statement so that it complies both with the code of obligations, as well as the IFRS. If so, then dual-standard accounting would exist. Such a standardized presentation can greatly simplify preparation of consolidated financial statements, and makes it easier for a company to compare itself to others (also internationally).

Finally, a third sub-project is to investigate the role of accounting as a basis for financial management in enterprises. To be examined, in particular, is whether bookkeeping aligned toward an application of IFRS fulfils the financial management requirements of the board of directors.