Auditors’ Perceptions of and Competencies in Big Data and Data Analytics: An Empirical Investigation

Abstract

<p>This study presents evidence on practicing auditors&rsquo; perceptions of and competencies in applying big data and data analytics to audit engagements. An electronic questionnaire distributed to accountants shows that auditors have good information technology skills and are well-acquainted with big data and data analytics. However, they lack relevant technical skills and are unfamiliar with related data analysis tools, excluding Excel. The results reveal 64.71% of accountants have not attended any training on big data and data analytics, while 31.37% plan to enhance related knowledge. Auditors need to obtain training on substantive audit risk assessments using big data and data analytics.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>