Finalisation—Finally, the auditors exercise
professional judgement and form their overall
conclusion, based on the tests they have carried out,
the evidence they have obtained and the other work
they have done. This conclusion forms the basis of
the audit opinion.
Auditors interact with the company during all the
phases of the audit process listed above. There will be
continuing discussions and meetings with
management, both at operational and senior
executive levels, and with those charged with
governance. Using their professional scepticism and
judgement, auditors challenge management’s
assertions regarding the numbers and disclosures in
the financial statements.