Data Structures and CAATTs for Data Extraction

The Components of Data Structures

In trying to have a better understanding of the components of data structure, it is essential to comprehend what it entails. The data structure according to computer science refers to the organization, management, and storage of information to facilitate easy access and modification if applicable(Cascarino, 2017). The components of data include data definition, data elements, statuses, dynamic datasets, and tags. Data definition elaborates how data is recorded in the primavera unifier and stored. The description takes into account data size, type, and the method of input. The significance of data defined as a primary component of the data structure is based on the impact it has in monitoring the behavior of data elements(Cascarino, 2017).

Data elements refer to what the diverse fields’ users have access to in the primavera unifier such as menu or text box. The effectiveness of a data element is determined by the data definition(Cascarino, 2017). Statuses are used in informing the users of the condition or state of the item, record, or asset under evaluation(Cascarino, 2017). Dynamic data sets are utilized in narrowing down the list options users can make(Cascarino, 2017). By closing options, it becomes possible to effectively and efficiently input data. On the other hand, tags are tasked with scheduling sheet activitieswith the configurable manager, shells, and business processes. By linking the various elements, tags facilitate one-to-many relationships.

The Features, Advantages, and Disadvantages of Embedded Audit Modules

The use of embedded audit modules is highly recommended due to the impact it has on enhancing accounting due to its effectiveness in guaranteeing compliance. The efficiency of the embedded audit modules can be traced back to the implementation of EAM’s in production and proprietary accounting information systems(Chan, Chiu, &Vasarhelyi, 2018). Given the technological advances that have been witnessed in the last decade, current EAM’s systems are designed to provide basic functionality (Chan et al., 2018). Even though there is no vast research of the advantages and disadvantages of EAM’s, it is inevitable to note that it has an overall positive impact on an enterprise if well integrated.

The growing use of EAM’s is based on numerous factors such as it being easy to use. Despite the module being used to carry out sophisticated activities that would have otherwise taken a substantial amount of time to go through, EMA’s do not require the auditors to have complex computer skills(Chan et al., 2018). EAM’s also favorable by the fact that they can be run without any or minimal disruptions thus making it a useful auditing tool.

Even though the embedded auditing module has a substantial impact, it is inevitable to note that it has many disadvantages(Chan et al., 2018). A decline in operational efficiency is among the most its adverse effects particularly in instances where testing is extensive. The module is also substantially complex resulting in the need to conduct a consistently high level of maintenance(Chan et al., 2018). Integrating an embedded audit module also leads to the demand, need, and utility of CA/EAM/COA.

The Capabilities and Primary Features of Generalized Audit Software

The Generalized audit software is made up of several computer systems that read computer files, perform repetitive calculations, select the desired information, and come up with reports according to the specified audit format(Cascarino, 2017). The generalized system efficiency is based on its ability to grant auditors access to large amounts of data in an efficient manner(Cascarino, 2017). While the generalized audit software packages have a substantial impact on improving auditing in small data systems, it is important to note that it has many limitations. Its limitations are based on the fact that they cannot compare and identify differences, recalculate data fields, stratify statistical samples, and analyze results and form opinions(Cascarino, 2017).

Although generalized audit software systems haveproved to be substantially useful in scaling up audits, it is inevitable to note that most auditors do not utilize it. The challenge faced by auditors is influenced by the fact that despite it being developed to meet the uses of non-IT auditors, this target group has not adequately incorporated it since they claim to be intimidated by its technology(Appelbaum, Kogan, &Vasarhelyi, 2017). The challenges facing the integration of the system is influenced by the fact that little research has focused on the software’s barriers (Appelbaum et al., 2017). The absence of barriers may not affect its increased use among the target audience, However, failing to address the obstacles, if any, results in outright rejection since it will be deemed as unreliable as evident in this case.

The primary factor affecting the use of GAS has been noted to be a lack of training. Even though the system is meant to target non-IT users, it is essential that basic training is conducted among the target users to warrant that they do not experience any difficulties that may influence their decision to not use the platform(Appelbaum et al., 2017). In addition to providing basic training on how the system functions, it is the target users should be educated on just how many tasks the platform can perform(Appelbaum et al., 2017). As a generalized audit software, it is inevitable to note that some users may not to use it out of the assumption that it cannot complete complex tasks.

References

Appelbaum, D., Kogan, A., &Vasarhelyi, M. A. (2017). Big Data and analytics in modern audit engagement: Research needs. Auditing: A Journal of Practice & Theory, 36(4), 1-27.

Cascarino, R. E. (2017). Data Analytics for Internal Auditors. Auerbach Publications.

Chan, D. Y., Chiu, V., &Vasarhelyi, M. A. (2018). Continuous Auditing: Theory and Application. Emerald Publishing Limited.

Do you need high quality Custom Essay Writing Services?

Custom Essay writing Service