4. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - Faculties submissions
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Item Accountability for audit findings in the Department of Social Development(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020) Chetty, Kylan; Cairns, M.This research aims to examine the effect and importance of accountability of audit findings and their recommendations in the South African Department of Social Development. The research utilizes qualitative data using interview data by a sample of 16 individuals relevant to audits and accountability within the department. In “Chapter 1-2,” the introduction and the literature review of auditing theories, repetitive findings, and accountability are presented. After that, a conceptual framework was formed, which led to a significant link between accountability and repetitive findings regarding the effect a lack of accountability has on organizational development and the repercussions. “Chapter 3-4” demonstrates a well-constructed research methodology, which provides an indication of the Interpretivist approach the research would take through the evaluation of audit reports, literature, and interviews. Thus, the research design formed a basis for collecting valuable data that followed a process of analysis to determine the significant findings of the study. “Chapter 5” The final portion of this research aims to conclude on the study's findings based on the core elements of accountability and the significant impact this has on the DSD effectiveness in implementing audit recommendations. The study highlights a strong existence of a lack of accountability by the DSD and the need to implement an audit policy practice that mitigates non-compliance by Senior Management in the implementation ofaudit recommendations. Overall, the results demonstrated a strong existence of a lack of accountability in the department and an ineffective understanding of addressing key findings. A significant notion of the data revealed that senior managers were unable to resolve audit findings and their root causes, resulting in repetitive findings and therefore the creation of repetitive tasks resulting in a condition known as Audit FatigueItem The adoption of intelligent robot automation by auditors within South Africa(2021) Naidoo, EvaashanTo automate, or not to automate, that is the question? The use of disruptive technologies has changed, and in many instances, has replaced traditional business operations and models. The auditing profession has been burdened with high costs and reputational damage as a result of false results due to a high dependency on manual tasks that are susceptible to errors or manipulation. The use of robots to help minimise these errors, achieve efficiencies and reduce costs, provides a convincing theoretical case to automate. The objective of this research is to apply the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to understand the views of audit professionals determine the factors that would influence organisations to use robot technology for performing audits in South Africa. The study adopted a quantitative approach, where a survey questionnaire consisting of 39 questions, aligned with the UTAUT model, was used to gather data. The sample comprised 59 auditors and 26 non-auditors who were involved in audits performed in South Africa. The non-auditors comprised of a Chief Information Officer, Finance Managers, Heads of Product, and various Senior Risk Management Professionals. A purposive sampling technique was used to select individuals who had an understanding of the capabilities of robots, and the potential use of robots to support business operations. The results of the study highlighted that performance expectancy and facilitating conditions were the key factors that influenced the adoption of robots in audits. Auditors and clients were more likely to use robots if they felt it would improve their performance. The respondents were more likely to use robots if it enabled the quicker completion of tasks, reduced errors, increased the number of tasks that could be completed and delivered better value than manual processes. The study also highlighted that sufficient investment and management support would be provided to ensure that an enabling environment is established for using robots to perform audit tasks. This would include acquiring management support as well as finding hardware, software, and skills to support the robotics development initiatives. The study provides more insight on how leaders and management in the auditing field can use insights attained through this study to successfully influence and support the use of robots to perform audits. Furthermore, the study contributes to an increased used of robotics in auditing which could improve the quality and efficiency of the auditor’s work. The study contributes towards the body of knowledge in the accounting and robot fields of studyItem Barriers to the adoption of independent reviews by non-public interest entities in South Africa :the current perceptions of South African professional accountants(2019) Nyambuya, KudzinetsaOrientation: The South African Companies Act no. 71 of 2008 introduced independent reviews as an additional form of providing assurance for the non-public interest entities (non-PIEs) with the aim of reducing the reporting burden. Despite the Companies Act becoming effective on 1 May 2011, some companies which qualify for independent reviews still opt to have their annual financial statements (AFS) audited. Research aim: The purpose of this study is to gain an understanding of the reasons that companies which qualify for independent reviews still select to have their AFS audited when there is a less burdensome option. The main research question is directed towards investigating why audits are still preferred to independent reviews and the barriers to the selection of independent reviews. Motivation of the study: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in the South African economy so it is critical to ascertain whether the independent review option is meeting its goal of reducing the reporting burden. The feedback provided assists the government in developing and updating strategies meant to support SMEs. Research approach and method: The research follows a qualitative approach within an interpretive paradigm where the data were collected from a series of nineteen detailed semi-structured interviews with a sample of South African professional accountants with the relevant experience on the subject matter. Main findings: The main findings indicate that audits are retained due to the need of small companies to reduce agency costs and appease the demands of various stakeholders, specifically lenders, lack of knowledge and guidance from practitioners regarding independent reviews, independent reviews being compared to audits, misconceptions and the resistance to change. Contributions of the study: This study contributes to providing an understanding of the barriers to the successful adoption of independent reviews and also recommendations on how acceptance of independent reviews can be improved to meet the purpose of reducing reporting burden for non-PIEs in South Africa.