The Future of Auditing

Abstract

I discuss the future of auditing, including fundamental auditing issues and current auditing issues. I include discussion of current proposals for change, and some current research. Auditing is a very complex task, and has developed particular structures and standards to deal with its complexities. It is also very important, and its structure needs continual review to ensure it will achieve its objectives. I conclude with some observations on the future of auditing. I suggest that the future of auditing will require restructuring of the partnership form to be more transparent; that regulation will be stronger, and will be multinational; research-based auditing developments will be incorporated into auditing practice; and the relevance of auditing will expand to include appropriate levels of auditing for all types and sizes of organization.

Keywords: Auditing, partnerships, regulation

JEL Classification: J44, L84, M41