According to IIA guidance, which of the following best describes the purpose of a planning memorandum for an audit engagement?

According to IIA guidance, which of the following best describes the purpose of a planning memorandum for an audit engagement?
A . It documents the audit steps and procedures to be performed.
B . it documents preliminary information useful to the audit team.
C . It documents events that could hinder the achievement of process objectives.
D . It documents existing measures that manage risks in the area under review

Answer: A

Explanation:

The planning memorandum serves as a comprehensive blueprint for an audit engagement, outlining the specific steps, procedures, and strategies that will be employed to carry out the audit. According to IIA guidance, the purpose of this document is to ensure that the audit team is well-prepared and that the audit process is systematic and thorough.

Documentation of Audit Steps and Procedures: The primary purpose of a planning memorandum is to detail the steps and procedures that the audit team will follow. This ensures consistency and clarity throughout the audit process and provides a clear framework for team members to follow.

Reference: IIA’s International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (Standards), Standard 2201 C Planning Considerations, which states that the internal auditor must develop and document a plan for each engagement, including the engagement’s objectives, scope, timing, and resource allocations.

Preparation and Coordination: It serves as a preparatory document that helps in coordinating the activities of the audit team, ensuring that everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities. Practical Example: If an audit is being conducted on the financial reporting processes, the planning memorandum would include specific procedures for testing internal controls over financial reporting, timelines for each phase of the audit, and responsibilities assigned to each team member.

Risk Management: While it includes information on preliminary risks, its main focus is on documenting the audit steps rather than managing risks or existing measures, which would be covered in other documents or sections of the audit plan.

Clarification: Options B, C, and D may include elements found within broader audit planning, but the planning memorandum specifically focuses on the procedural roadmap.

Conclusion: The correct answer is A, as the planning memorandum’s primary function is to document the audit steps and procedures to be performed, ensuring a structured and organized approach to the audit engagement.