What kind of Information Age is this?

Having worked in the industry, I would have to say that this is either deliberate on some levels or simple inefficiency. They might be controlling access of information for proprietary reasons, and you may have to ask directly to obtain what it is you need. Another level is that the systems you were provided with are outdated and beyond the budget of the company to upgrade or expand. I am not sure why the accounting department is being restricted except to provide internal protection. It would be disappointing if your organization has no clue that there is an inherent problem. Hope this helps...