Tag (SQ): sampling risk

a) ISA 530: Audit Sampling indicates that the decision to use statistical sampling or non-statistical sampling is a matter of professional judgment and does not indicate which should be used in any given situation. However, the standard is clear that sample size is not a valid criterion to distinguish between the selection of sampling methods. Therefore, the auditor should not base their decision on whether to use statistical or non-statistical sampling on the outcome of the calculation of sample sizes.

Required: Differentiate between statistical sampling and non-statistical sampling.

b)

A core objective of an audit is to enhance the degree of confidence intended users can place in the financial statements. This is achieved through the expression of an opinion and is governed by key conceptual pillars. Central to this process are the concepts of materiality and the level of assurance provided.

Required:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             i) Explain the concept of materiality and performance materiality.

ii) Compare and contrast limited assurance and reasonable assurance.

C)

Your client has outsourced their payroll processes to Azara Technologies (Azara), a payroll management company. You have asked the client how they are confident that the payroll that is processed is accurate and appropriate. They have indicated that Azara sends them the final payroll run for review before payment is done. They also mentioned they performed due diligence on Azara before contracting them and noted that they have other high-profile companies as clients and has a reputable audit firm as its Service Auditor who audits the payroll management service. Your client has shared with you the final approved payroll run for each month under review.

Required: State FIVE audit procedures to be performed on the payroll.