Survey Report
2013 Sarbanes-Oxley Survey
As the Sarbanes-Oxley Act enters its second decade (and Section 404 nears the end of its first decade), organizations with the most effective and efficient compliance capabilities are learning from the past, rather than repeating it. Key findings from Protiviti’s 2013 Sarbanes-Oxley Compliance Survey reveal that the best compliance efforts remain spry and seek to build value as well as increase effectiveness.
Regulatory Update
Protiviti Flash Report: COSO Releases Long-Awaited Update to Its Internal Control Framework
COSO has announced that it has released its updated Internal Control – Integrated Framework. Developed over a two-and-a-half-year period, the New Framework and related illustrative documents are intended to help organizations in their efforts to adapt to the increasing complexity and pace of change, to mitigate risks to the achievement of objectives, and to provide reliable information to support sound decision-making.
Hot Issue
The Change Agent Auditor
In order to achieve demanding results, auditors must demonstrate change agent skills. A change agent is a catalyst; they must make a difference while maintaining professional independence, balanced perspective, skepticism and objectivity and shift their focus from “has been” or “is” to “could be.” In this article, Ann Butera explains what you should keep in mind to make organizational change happen. Be sure to join our complimentary webinar on June 13th for Ann’s in-depth presentation on how to become a change agent.
Regulatory Update
SEC Flash Report: NASDAQ Withdraws Proposed Internal Audit Function Rule with Intent to Resubmit It
Three months ago, NASDAQ proposed a new rule to require listed companies to have an internal audit function. In light of the breadth and nature of the comments from its issuer community and other stakeholders, the NASDAQ has determined to withdraw its proposal so that it may adequately consider these comments. This flash report summarizes the reasons for NASDAQ’s decision, possible changes NASDAQ might make to this rule before resubmitting it, and key considerations for NASDAQ-listed companies.
Taylor & Francis Article
Questions for the Board of Directors to Ask About Information Technology
Many commentators argue that boards of directors lack necessary expertise to ask appropriate questions and advocate that boards should include an IT specialist to plug the gap. This article proposes seven business strategy-oriented questions to ask about IT.
Guide
Consumer Products and Services Industry Trends
This guide highlights trends in the consumer products and services industry, including the packaged goods, clothing, consumer electronics, beverage and automotive sub-industries.
Questionnaire
Control Self-Assessment Questionnaire: Section 404 Readiness
Self-assessment is a recognized best practice and has been applied to risks and controls for many years. This questionnaire serves as a basis for gathering information on financial statements related to Section 404 readiness.
Questionnaire
Sarbanes-Oxley Compliance Questionnaire
In recent years, compliance with Sections 302 and 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has commanded the attention of company executives. This questionnaire addresses how organizations can make this a sustainable compliance process.
Updated Audit Report
Incentive Compensation Audit Report
This sample report summarizes an internal audit review of the incentive compensation area. The report includes an executive summary, description of audit work performed, process maps of the audit area, and recommendations.