Auditors’ Training and Proficiency in Information Systems: A Research Synthesis

This paper presents a review of extant literature examining issues relating to auditors’ knowledge of and training in information systems. This review is important due to the rapidly increasing use of technology in business, recent changes in U.S. auditing standards on information technology and internal control, and signals of interest by regulators in possible future standards on auditors’ information systems (IS) knowledge. We review prior research both to provide information on the current status of our literature, and to identify specific questions about which there is insufficient research. Our review covers three broad areas. First, we review the current environment of IS in financial reporting and assurance, and summarize related auditing standards. Second, we consider prior research on how financial statement (‘‘generalist’’) auditors acquire and use IS knowledge. Third, we discuss research on the interaction between generalist and IS auditors. Each section concludes with suggestions for future research.