Auditing Bits in Bytes™ Session 3: Internal Control Considerations
Description
This 2-hour session focuses on important internal control considerations. This includes both evaluating the design and implementation of internal controls, which is required on all engagements. It also includes testing controls for operating effectiveness, which should be considered as part of the risk assessment procedures.
This area is one of the most commonly misunderstood and misapplied aspects of the audit process, particularly given the recent significant changes in auditing standards. Inappropriate or inadequate judgment calls made at this stage of the engagement could have the greatest impact on financial statement audit effectiveness and efficiency. Missteps in this area also have the greatest likelihood of being identified as deficiencies in peer or regulatory review.
Describe the requirement to evaluate the design and implementation of internal control as part of the risk assessment process
Identify the considerations when deciding whether it is necessary or desirable to test the operating effectiveness of internal controls to reduce assessed risk of material misstatement
Recognize special considerations, such as use of service organization control reports or varying audit objectives
Major Topics
Evaluating the Design & Implementation of Internal Controls: ◦ The typical types and flow of an internal control system ◦ Documenting an understanding of the design of internal control, including both entity-level and transactional-level internal controls ◦ Identifying the key controls that significantly reduce the possibility of material misstatement due to fraud or error ◦ Appropriately verifying that key controls have been implemented ◦ IT control considerations, including general and application controls
Testing Controls for Operating Effectiveness: ◦ What audit evidence is required to reduce control risk below high ◦ Understanding when a control reliance strategy may be either necessary or desirable in an audit plan ◦ The impact of reduced control risk on the nature, timing and extent of substantive audit procedures
Special considerations: ◦ Service Organization Control (SOC) Report special considerations ◦ Smaller entity considerations ◦ Varying audit objectives
Extensive illustrative examples will be used to reinforce a practical understanding of the most critical principles and standards that support a high-quality, insightful, and profitable engagement
Provider
Business Learning Institute
Course Level
Basic
Professional Area of Focus
Accounting & Auditing
CPE Field of Study
Auditing
2.0
Who Should Attend
Anyone who is new to auditing or desires a refresher in how to perform effective and efficient financial statement audits for non-issuers in accordance with professional and regulatory standards.
