By Elizabeth Lynch
Advances in technology have changed the execution of quality audits, compelling today’s accounting and auditing professionals to become lifelong learners to meet the demands of an ever-changing workplace and ensure their long-term career success.
Today, quality audits must leverage advanced technologies, such as data and analytics tools as a matter of course. Artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and robotic process automation are becoming more prevalent.
These advanced technologies empower auditors; but it’s the people, their skill sets, and their motivation to update and renew their knowledge that make the difference.
“Our people remain central to audit quality,” said Jackie Daylor, National Managing Partner, Audit Quality and Professional Practice, who said the firm’s award-winning training programs have taken an innovative approach. “Learning can happen anywhere and at any time. It has become continuous. Our people gain knowledge through formal courses, micro-learnings available in the flow of work, and in their daily interaction with their colleagues.”
KPMG learning programs have been recognized with many awards and honors:
Meanwhile, in a look to the future, the firm is building its new learning and innovation center in Florida, which will offer interactive, collaborative and engaging learning experiences for KPMG partners, managers and staff.
“Corporate learning no longer can be passive, lecture-based sessions. It also cannot be simply on-line programs. Training programs must incorporate technology, experience-based and engaging sessions, and be customized to an individuals’ needs,” said Susan St. Amant, partner in charge, KPMG Business School—Audit.
Audit skills - objectivity and professional skepticism with an intense focus on enhancing quality - blended with technical knowledge and business acumen become invaluable in a world where the volume of available information can be overwhelming.
The tools, however, are only as good as the hands they are in.
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