Accounting systems change control: adding a new general ledger account at the beginning of a fiscal period is best classified as what type of revision?

Introduction / Context:
In financial systems, change control ranges from small, routine updates to major structural alterations. Classifying the change helps determine the required approvals, testing, and documentation. Adding a new GL account at the start of a period is routine but must follow controls to preserve integrity.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The change occurs at the beginning of the period (minimizes historical impact).
• It involves adding one account; no historical reclassification is needed.
• Standard chart-of-accounts governance and documentation apply.

Concept / Approach:
A simple revision is a low-risk, routine master-data change that does not alter historical balances or reporting structures. This contrasts with moderately complex or complex revisions such as reclassifying prior periods, redesigning reporting hierarchies, or merging segments, which require migration and extensive testing.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Finance operations policies generally treat new account creation (with proper approvals) as a standard master-data update, not a complex system revision.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Moderately complex” or “complex” imply refactoring structures or historical data; “All of the above” cannot be correct because only one classification applies.

Common Pitfalls:
Creating accounts mid-period without governance; failing to update mapping tables (e.g., consolidation, reporting tools), leading to reconciliation gaps.

Final Answer:
simple revision