8 Actions to Embrace Technology and Innovation

8 Actions to Embrace Technology and Innovation logo

Summary:

The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) has issued a Position Statement that outlines how they will integrate technological advancements into its standard-setting activities to ensure that its standards remain relevant, effective, and aligned with the public interest.

Article:

In an era where technology is rapidly transforming the landscape of external reporting, the IAASB has reaffirmed its commitment to staying at the forefront of these changes with the adoption of a comprehensive Technology Position Statement.

This Position Statement also clarifies the IAASB’s new position, which includes:

  • Embracing innovation in audit and assurance while ensuring that its standards evolve with the changing environment.
  • Removing barriers in existing standards that may prevent using advanced technologies.
  • Introducing new requirements and guidance to help practitioners apply technology-enabled procedures effectively.

IAASB’s Actions to Navigate the Technological Landscape

The Statement includes 8 key actions detailing how the IAASB will deliver on its new technological commitment:

  1. Embrace Technology-Driven Innovations
  2. Remove Barriers in the Standards, Real or Perceived, to Practitioners Using Technology
  3. Introduce Requirements and Application Material Relating to Using Technology in Engagements
  4. Address the Impact of Technology Used by Reporting Entities
  5. Strike the Right Balance When Referring to Opportunities and Risks Associated with Technology
  6. Align with Principles of Ethics and Ethical Requirements
  7. Ensure Scalability and Proportionality
  8. Convene Stakeholders and Foster Ongoing Engagement

The following is set out in their Technology Position Statement:

  • The IAASB's Technology Position - which is built on a conceptual framework composed of 3 key components
  • Commitment to the Public Interest and Enhancing Engagement Quality
  • Operationalizing the Technology Position

The IAASB is also developing a feedback mechanism to allow stakeholders and partners to provide feedback and insights, including any challenges they encounter when using existing standards and materials.

Access the 8 Guiding Actions at https://www.iaasb.org/publications/technology-position-statement-8-guiding-actions

Click here to download the Technology Position Statement:

https://ifacweb.blob.core.windows.net/publicfiles/2024-09/IAASB-Technology-Position-Statement-Actions.pdf

Relevance to Auditors, Independent Reviewers & Accountants:

  • As an auditor, independent reviewer and accountant, you need to be aware of the latest publications and media releases by standard-setters and regulators, e.g. the IAASB – especially in respect of technology and innovation.

Relevance to Your Clients:

  • Interest parties and other stakeholders should be aware of the latest publications by the IAASB, as they might find this interesting – with its main focus on the public interest.

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