Examining determinants of auditors’ intention to use CAATs in external auditing using an extended UTAUT model; evidence from Sri Lanka

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine the behavioral intention and the usage of Computer-Assisted Audit Techniques (CAATs) in external auditing by extending the original Unified Theory of the Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) Model. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research approach is used in this study and 474 responses were secured from external auditors through a self-administered questionnaire, which was analyzed using structural equation modeling. Findings Findings reveal that lower Perceived Risk (PR) and Anxiety (AN) of external auditors, which were two constructs that we additionally introduced, contributed as the highest impact factors to the increased intention to use CAATs in external audits. In addition, all other determinants that were introduced [i.e. Self-efficacy (SE), Attitude toward Technology (AT), Perceived Credibility (PC) and Trust (TR)] had a positive impact on the intentions to use CAATs. However, social influence surprisingly negatively influenced the intentions to use CAATs and was positively moderated by Voluntariness (VO). Furthermore, Performance Expectancy (PE) and Effort Expectancy (EE) were also observed to have a positive impact on intentions to use CAATs in external auditing. Moreover, Facilitating Conditions (FC) and Intentions to Use (IU) CAATs were noted to have positive influences on the Actual Use (AU) of CAATs. Originality/value The present study extended the UTAUT model by introducing relevant additional constructs: SE, PR, AT, AN, PC and TR, and examined the impact of these on the intention to use CAATs, and subsequently such intentions on the actual use of CAATs in external auditing, with several implications.