Many auditors now use laptops computers to perform various audit tasks. However, if audit firms use laptop computers they risk data being corrupted and appropriate controls must therefore be put in place to prevent the corruption of data;Explain six ways which auditors can use laptop computers in their audit work (other than computer-assisted audit techniques)

1. A micro-computer (including laptop) may be used by the auditor in the following ways to assist his audit work: –
2. Flowcharting clients systems

Specialist flowcharting packages can assist the auditor in the production of clear, well presented flowcharts. The use of such packages ensures that the flow charts are legible and can be easily updated when systems change, unlike manually produced flowcharts.

2. Preparation of audit programmes

Audit programmes can be typed into a word processor, which again will allow for easy updating in the following years. Some firms may also have standard audit tests kept on a database within the word processor when such tests are required, they are simply copied into the audit program.

3. Analytical procedures

A standard template can be set up on a spreadsheet package. Onto this template, the auditor inputs key details such as balance sheet totals from the financial statement. The spreadsheet then calculates key accounting ratios to assist the auditor with the analytical procedures.

4. Preparation of audit working papers

Word processing packages can be used in documenting the audit evidence gathered.

5. Preparing correspondences with the client such as faxes, management letters and engagement letter among
6. In random sample selection statistical packages can assist in sample selection and in performing the required mathematical