DESCRIPTION
This module begins with a focus on how management creates estimates, then allows participants to put themselves in management’s role to create an estimate using their chosen method. After learning about the four available approaches for auditing estimates, including a discussion of how analytical vigilance and data-driven problem-solving could factor into both estimate creation and auditing, participants work together in groups to “audit” one another’s estimates. The module closes with hands-on activities focused on examples of auditing estimates commonly encountered by auditors.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Recognize key financial statement estimates and underlying assumptions
- Describe how financial estimates are developed by management, including the data, methods, and assumptions used
- Design a plan to audit estimates using one or more of the four available testing approaches
- Evaluate and document conclusions related to estimates clearly, including the application of professional judgment

