Question Your Audit Evidence

Always question your audit evidence, but what exactly is that and how to ensure it’s any good?

The GAO provides great information on evidence, but auditors should ask themselves the five questions pictured here to determine if the data received is actually decent.

Audit evidence requires good data

Don’t be tempted to jump headfirst into the audit process when you’re given a lot of data upfront. It could be a pile of garbage!

Streamline the process and ask yourself the five questions listed on the Question Your Audit Evidence (PDF) infographic. This can help determine if the audit evidence in your hands is worthy of your review. Having reliable data as evidence means it’s more complete and accurate. Auditors can also reduce the guesswork when it comes to writing reports. Good evidence delivers trusted analytics and insights as well.

Want to learn more?

Join me for the Audit Reporting Clinic on July 25-28 where you will learn how to create meaningful, concise reports based on compelling evidence. If you don’t have time that week for a live webinar, there are several CPE self-study bundles you can take on your own time.