Thesis Type: Doctorate
Institution Of The Thesis: Erciyes University, Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü, Turkey
Thesis Supervisor: Şaban Uzay
Approval Date: 2024
Thesis Language: Turkish
Abstract:
The independent audit is inevitably affected by the rapid transformation in many areas due to technological advancements. Among these emerging technologies are blockchain, machine learning, robotic process automation, and artificial intelligence. The aim of this study is to examine the current use of emerging technologies in independent auditing, their impact on independent auditing, their impact on detecting fraudulent financial reporting, and the potential changes they could bring to independent auditing in the future. To achieve this goal, a survey and interview form were prepared and the opinions of independent auditors and experts in the field working at independent audit firms in Turkey were obtained. A mixed-method approach was used in the research. Initially, quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS software. Subsequently, qualitative data was analyzed using MAXQDA 2024 Pro software. According to the research findings, independent auditors have a moderate level of knowledge about emerging technologies. Auditors particularly benefit from applications of artificial intelligence in their independent auditing activities. The use of emerging technologies in independent auditing has increased with the developments during the pandemic. It is expected that artificial intelligence applications will reduce the time and cost of independent auditing while increasing its quality. The impact of blockchain, machine learning, and robotic process automation applications supported by artificial intelligence on detecting fraudulent financial reporting is even more significant. Finally, emerging technologies may lead to significant changes in independent auditing in the future such as virtual environment audits, real-time audits, and AI-assisted auditors.