The evolution of integrated reporting: Digital transformation and governance convergence in the era of ESG
TL;DR
The paper concludes that IR is shifting from a symbolic tool of compliance to a strategic governance tool that is in line with stakeholder-centric and sustainability-oriented models and provides policy-makers and organisations with harmonized and transparent reporting systems.
Abstract
Integrated reporting (IR) has become a groundbreaking model that connects both financial and non-financial reporting in order to promote corporate transparency and value generation. Nonetheless, variations in implementation, governance frameworks, and digital integration constrain its effectiveness. This paper seeks to review the current trends in IR in the framework of the convergence of environmental, social, and governance (ESG), digital transformation, and Industry 5.0. Major academic databases were used to analyse 48 studies on the PRISMA method that were published between 2024 and 2025. It is found that technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), natural language processing (NLP), and blockchain can considerably enhance reporting accuracy and timeliness, but add ethical, regulatory, and standardisation issues. Quality of governance, diversity of boards, and ethical responsibility turn out to be key forces behind IR credibility. The paper concludes that IR is shifting from a symbolic tool of compliance to a strategic governance tool that is in line with stakeholder-centric and sustainability-oriented models. The study is an addition in that it incorporates digital ethics and governance innovation into the IR debate and provides policy-makers and organisations with harmonized and transparent reporting systems.