Identifying Key Drivers Influencing the Future of Auditing: A Meta-Synthesis Approach

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Accounting, Faculty of Accounting and Financial Sciences, College of Management, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

2 Prof., Department of Accounting, Faculty of Accounting and Financial Sciences, College of Management, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

3 Associate Prof., Department of Leadership and Human Capital, Faculty of Public Administration and Organizational Sciences, College of Management, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Objective
In recent years, numerous changes and developments have impacted the auditing profession and are expected to continue influencing it in the future. Advances in information technology and the impact of their tools on audits, new needs of audit users, new reporting and governance models, domestic and global economic and political events, etc., are examples of these changes. Evidence shows that the necessary changes in auditing are not keeping pace with the speed of these developments, resulting in delayed and mostly passive responses. To sustain the profession, improve service delivery, and enhance audit quality, it is crucial to respond to upcoming changes proactively and be prepared for the future by identifying and reacting to emerging trends. Otherwise, the auditing profession risks losing its status as a valuable service. Identifying the drivers of change is the first step in addressing these changes, allowing us to prepare for future events. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to systematically review the literature, classify the results, and interpret the findings to identify the future drivers of auditing.
Methods
This research is both practical and qualitative, conducted using a meta-synthesis approach. The process involved setting research questions, systematically reviewing the literature, screening the identified studies, extracting information from the articles, and analyzing and synthesizing the qualitative findings. After quality control, an interpretation of the findings was presented. By employing a meta-synthesis approach, the research provides comprehensive and interpretive results, offering a clear picture of the future of auditing.
Results
After reviewing the content of 41 studies, 62 drivers affecting the future of auditing were identified and categorized based on their impact on the near and distant environments. Of these, 28 drivers were classified according to the P.E.S.T.L.E. framework (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental). Additionally, 34 drivers related to the near environment were organized into eight general categories: human resources, academic and professional education, audit procedures and approaches, professional structure, stakeholders, work standards, reporting frameworks and corporate governance, and customers and the business environment.
Conclusion
Based on the findings of the conducted studies, stakeholder needs to give meaning to the audit. Currently, stakeholders expect the audit to provide more insight into a changing environment. Additionally, they anticipate an expanded audit scope and the use of more innovative tools. To meet these needs, auditors are expected to proactively address changes, enhance the quality of auditing by acquiring and applying necessary skills, and ensure that the educational system includes more up-to-date topics. Policymakers should also ensure the continuous adaptation of standards to align with ongoing changes in this complex environment.
 

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

 
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Accounting and Auditing Review
Volume 31, Issue 2
2024
Pages 390-427

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