100% testing vs. sampling.

Statements made in a recent article, “Take My Manual Audit, Please” (JofA, June98, page 33), could set a dangerous precedent for auditors. The author wrote that “audit software lends itself to conducting 100% testing—not just sampling—of client data” and went on to describe the benefits of 100% testing.

Replacing sampling procedures with 100% testing of all data could raise expectations for the audit to a level that I think is unacceptable.

Published articles could be a source of authoritative support, and, if the author’s views are followed, this could elevate testing standards to a level of practice that practitioners may not choose, or may be unable, to follow.

Our standard audit report tells the statement user, “An audit includes examining, on a test basis.” The word test is intended to denote sampling rather than 100% testing. If the standards are to be changed, let the standard setters do it.

Charles Chazen, CPA
Los Angeles