The results of this study are consistent with prior research done at the task level, indicating that
the degree of formalization in firms’ task processes can significantly impact the development and
performance of human resources. This study augments prior research by providing evidence of
these same effects while measuring formalization in terms of where participants gained their prior
audit experience. These results are relevant to organizations as they make decisions to add policies,
procedures, or tools that may alter the level of formalization in their decision processes. The results
may also be of interest to professionals seeking a work environment that is best suited to their goals and abilities.