The impact of accounting information systems on audit quality: the case of Lebanese SMES

This research examines the impact of accounting information systems (AIS) on audit quality in Lebanese SMEs. A sample of 123 respondents from Lebanese SMEs was used in the research. The data was collected through a survey questionnaire and analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The research findings indicate that AIS significantly positively impacts audit quality in Lebanese SMEs. Specifically, using AIS enhances the accuracy and reliability of financial information, improving the quality of the audit. In addition, the research reveals that several factors, such as the size of the SME, the level of internal control, and the level of accounting expertise, influence the effectiveness of AIS in improving audit quality. The results of this research have important implications for SMEs in Lebanon, as they suggest that using AIS can help improve audit quality and enhance the company's overall financial performance. Therefore, SMEs in Lebanon should invest in AIS to improve their financial reporting and enhance the quality of their audit. This research contributes to the literature on AIS and audit quality in SMEs, particularly in Lebanon. The findings highlight AIS's importance in improving audit quality and provide insights for SMEs in Lebanon to improve their financial reporting and enhance their overall financial performance.


INTRODUCTION
Accounting Information Systems (AIS) have become an integral part of modern business operations, transforming the way financial data is processed, recorded, and reported.With the increasing adoption of automated accounting systems, it is essential to examine their influence on audit quality (Musa, 2019).Financial auditing and reporting heavily rely on timely access to accurate and reliable financial information, which AIS plays a crucial role in providing.This research aims to investigate the effect of AIS on audit quality, considering both the advantages and disadvantages of implementing such systems (Eaton & Korach, 2016).The objective is to assess how AIS can enhance audit outcomes by raising the standards of quality, efficiency, and effectiveness according to Alayli (2022).Additionally, the research will explore the impact of AIS on the portrayal of financial information, including its integrity, comprehensiveness, and relevance (Harasheh & Provasi, 2022).Accounting Information Systems serve as the backbone of financial reporting, enabling organizations to streamline their financial processes and generate reliable reports (Hamza & Shatila, 2022).By integrating various accounting functions, AIS improves data accuracy, reduces errors, and facilitates quick access to critical financial information (Kartini, 2015).Auditors heavily rely on AIS to conduct efficient and effective audits as they can access a comprehensive set of financial data promptly according to Jalloul et al (2022).

PROBLEM STATEMENT
Rapid technological advancements and the rising use of accounting information systems (AIS) provide issues for Lebanon's accounting industry.It is crucial to assess the effect of AIS on Audit Quality in the Lebanese environment since accounting is becoming automated.There is a scarcity of research on the subject in the context of developing nations like Lebanon, and much of the available literature on AIS and Audit Quality has concentrated on industrialized countries.Political instability, economic turmoil, and the effects of COVID-19 have all taken their toll on Lebanon's accounting industry in recent years (Pilonato, 2022).The onus on Lebanese companies to provide reliable financial accounts following accounting principles has risen due to these difficulties.As a result, including AIS in audits is now vital for ensuring the integrity of financial reports (Ushakov & Shatila, 2021).
This research aims to fill this void in the literature by analyzing how AIS affects audit quality in the Lebanese setting.The use of AIS in audits will be studied for its potential positive and negative effects on audit quality.Findings from this research will also light the methods used by auditors in Lebanon to deal with the difficulties of using AIS in auditing according to Kumar et la (2022).The outcomes of this research will be helpful to auditors, accountants, and policymakers in Lebanon by shedding light on the pros and cons of incorporating AIS into audits and financial statements.Furthermore, the findings will provide a foundation for future research in the Lebanese context and other developing nations, adding to the current literature on AIS and Audit Quality.Lebanese companies and auditors have considerable obstacles and possibilities for using AIS in the audit process.This research aims to fill a knowledge vacuum by examining how AIS affects audit quality in Lebanon and provide insights into the pros and cons of including AIS in audits and financial reporting.

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK Contingency Theory
The premise that there is no "one size fits all" method for controlling accounting and auditing procedures is known as "contingency theory" in the world of accounting and auditing.Instead, the best accounting and auditing procedures are situationally and contextually dependent.To meet regulatory requirements and guard against financial risks, for instance, an organization in a highly regulated sector may need to adopt more conservative accounting practices.However, businesses in less strictly regulated sectors may be able to adopt accounting policies that are more in line with their actual operations (Dinh & Schultze, 2022).In a similar vein, the auditing profession is advised by contingency theory to tailor its services to each client's specific needs.This calls for auditors to be flexible and adaptive in their methods, tailoring their work to the particular needs of each client organization based on factors including size, complexity, and risk.According to contingency theory, practical accounting and auditing require familiarity with the firm's history, structure, and workings (Castro et al., 2019).Accounting and auditing professionals, therefore, require strong skills in data analysis and interpretation, as well as in client communication to ensure they fully grasp their wants, needs, and concerns.Professionals in accounting and auditing may better guarantee their customers obtain optimal services by adopting a contingency fee model (Lowe et al., 2015).

Agency Theory
According to Rametse et al., (2020), the core worry of agency theory is the potential for conflict between principal and agent in contractual interactions due to informational mismatches.There may be agency problems between management and the firm's shareholders if management does not take on a disproportionate part of the financial risk connected with their activities.As indicated by Rashid et al., (2022), agency conflicts between managers and shareholders may result from separating ownership and management.Managers may have agency problems if they are incentivized to operate in a way that is not in the best interests of shareholders (Solichin et al., 2022).Managers with financial holdings in their organizations are less likely to conduct activities opposed to the wealth maximization of shareholders, such as abusing privileges, disregarding obligations, or pursuing sub-optimal projects, as stated by Sarhan et al., (2019).Smaller enterprises are more likely to have management or insider ownership, which may lead to agency problems between owner-managers and financiers or other stakeholders.The assumption is that the owner-manager has more information than everyone else involved.The agency theory is helpful for accounting research because it can include many conflicts of interest, incentive issues, and methods for managing incentive problems into a single model.Moreover, incentive control is a significant factor in accounting and auditing motivation (Nyakarimi et al., 2020).
The goal of agency theory, which has its roots in management and economics, is to shed light on the dynamic between principals (like shareholders) and agents (like managers) in business settings.According to the theory, when a principal hires an agent to act on their behalf, a conflict of interest may arise due to the agent's potential to work in the agent's best interest rather than the principal's.The principal-agent relationship, as described by agency theory, is defined by incentives and limitations that affect the actions of both parties.Typically, the principal wants to maximize their interests, like profits or the value of an investment, while the agent seeks to maximize their welfare, like their salary or job security.When the agent knows more about the principal's activities and choices than the principal does, information asymmetry becomes a problem in the principal-agent relationship.Agents in such a circumstance may be tempted to put their interests ahead of that of their principal rather than the principal.Agency theory proposes a variety of processes and tactics for bringing principle and agent interests into harmony to deal with this issue (Abdullatif & Al-Rahahleh, 2020).Due to the existence of possible conflicts of interest between auditors and their clients, agency theory is especially pertinent in the field of accounting and auditing.Auditors are employed by their customers to analyze their financial accounts objectively.Yet, they may feel pressure to minimize or ignore discrepancies to keep working with their client (Prodanova et al., 2019).There are several norms and standards for auditors to adhere to prevent them from being influenced by their clients.Establishing audit committees to monitor the process, requiring the rotation of audit partners, and restricting the scope of non-audit services offered to customers are all examples.

HYPOTHESIS DEVELOPMENT Impact of Technology on Audit Quality
The auditing industry has been significantly altered by technological development.Increased efficiency, better data processing capabilities, and more accurate risk assessment are ways technological advancements have impacted audit quality (Berdiyeva et al., 2021).One of the most essential ways technology has affected audit quality is via data analytics.Auditors may now use modern analytics tools and approaches to analyze massive financial data faster and more correctly than ever.With cutting-edge data analytics tools, auditors may examine all aspects of a company's financial dealings and zero in on any possible trouble spots.By zeroing down on these specifics, auditors can more efficiently and precisely scrutinize the most critical components of financial reporting (Pizzi et al., 2021).Financial data may be promptly analyzed using data analytics tools to reveal anomalies.Upon discovering such discrepancies, auditors might dig further to see whether fraud or substantial misstatements were made according to Alayli (2023).
With data analytics offered by technological advancements, auditors may depend on empirical data rather than relying only on time-consuming human checks.The auditing industry is moving towards more evidence-based practices, improving quality and trustworthiness.Historically, audits occurred at predetermined times, often after the close of the accounting quarter (Grayston, 2022).With continuous auditing, accountants may check numbers as they come in throughout the reporting period.This method provides timely information on the company's financial status and facilitates early detection of discrepancies (Fulop et al., 2018).It is possible to reduce potential financial and reputational risks to the audited business and its stakeholders by constantly monitoring financial data to uncover inaccuracies or fraudulent actions early (Alberti et al., 2022).Users of financial statements who rely on timely, correct information will benefit from continuous auditing since auditors can deliver more convenient and up-to-date audit reports.
Cybersecurity issues have come to the fore in the digital age, and auditors play a critical role in evaluating and maintaining financial data safety.Now more than ever, auditors must consider the efficiency of IT safeguards designed to shield financially sensitive information from cybercriminals (Sulaiman et al., 2022).Regulations and standards around data privacy have risen as technology has spread.Auditors must determine how well the company follows data protection regulations to prevent breaches and penalties.Auditors may use specialized tools and methods to evaluate a company's cybersecurity.Some things that fall under this category include access control effectiveness evaluations, vulnerability assessments, and penetration tests (Rendon & Rendon, 2015).
Technology has had a revolutionary effect on audit quality.Data analytics has completely transformed how auditors evaluate risks, collect evidence, and look for outliers.Continuous auditing makes in-the-moment insights and prompt detection of mistakes and fraud possible (Hay et al., 2020).However, auditors must ensure data privacy and examine IT controls to safeguard confidential financial data as cybersecurity threats arise alongside these innovations.Technology may improve audit quality only if auditors constantly improve their technical abilities, adopt new tools, and modify their approaches (Harber & Marx, 2020).By doing so, auditors may maintain the trustworthiness and integrity of the audit process in the modern day while providing maximum value to their clients and other stakeholders.This led to the development of the following hypothesis: H1: There is relationship between Accounting Technology and Audit Quality

Impact of Auditor Skills on Audit Quality
The auditors' level of expertise and knowledge makes a significant difference in the audit's overall quality.Technical knowledge, professional competence, and soft skills all play a role in an auditor's ability to conduct an efficient and trustworthy audit (Agustina et al., 2021).The auditor's ability to use their knowledge and understanding of accounting concepts, auditing standards, financial reporting, and applicable regulatory frameworks is what is meant by technical proficiency (Ozili & Outa, 2019).Expert auditors have in-depth knowledge in these areas, which allows them to evaluate financial accounts critically, spot any misstatements, and carry out audit processes accurately according to Shatila & Alozian (2019).A detailed understanding of the company and industry risks will enable auditors to concentrate on what matters most, resulting in a more efficient and precise audit.Competent auditors can adequately plan and implement audit strategies (Ozili & Outa, 2018).They have the knowledge and skills to make sense of complex transactions, appropriately apply accounting concepts, and make sound decisions.Therefore, they will be better able to spot financial anomalies and substantial misstatements.Professional auditors always follow the auditing industry's rules and regulations (Nyambuya et al., 2021).
Auditors must possess the qualities of professional skepticism, which include an inquiring mind, a desire to challenge assumptions, and the capacity to examine data objectively.The independence and credibility of an audit rely on the auditors' ability to evaluate financial data with a fair dose of skepticism.Skepticism on the part of auditors is crucial in identifying opportunities for fraud and mistakes.Auditors that adopt a skeptic's perspective are able to spot discrepancies, abnormalities, and other warning signs that point to possible financial misstatements or fraud (White et al., 2020).Professional auditors will scrutinize management's claims in more detail.They don't want to put all their faith in management's assertions, so they seek confirmation from other, more trustworthy sources.Thanks to auditor skepticism, professional judgments and conclusions are free from the effect of auditors' personal biases and external influences (Millet-Reyes & Uddin, 2021).This impartiality enhances the trustworthiness of the audit and the audit report.
Auditors need to properly communicate complicated financial information to clients and stakeholders while fostering excellent working relationships with both.When conducting an audit, it is beneficial to all parties involved if all information is conveyed clearly and concisely (Baker et al., 2017).Effective auditors put their customers at ease by encouraging open channels of communication.By working together, auditors and clients may better understand the client's company, identify risks, and solve problems that may crop up throughout the audit.A successful audit report relies on the auditor's ability to convey findings and conclusions (Meiryani et al., 2019).Skilled auditors will provide reports that are easy to read and comprehend, providing transparency into the audit process and the results.
Feedback on customer areas for development and suggestions for improving internal controls and financial reporting systems are examples of effective communication.It's a fact that auditor expertise affects the results of an audit.Technical expertise helps auditors effectively deal with complex financial transactions and governing structures (Oradi et al., 2020).Independent and objective evaluation of economic data is impossible without the professional skepticism of analysts.Collaboration with customers and the transparent publication of audit findings are both facilitated by effective communication (Fung et al., 2022).Maintaining and enhancing audit quality requires auditors to continually develop their expertise and keep up with the latest accounting and auditing practices developments.High-quality audits that benefit organizations and gain the trust of their stakeholders' trust result from an emphasis on developing technical understanding, building professional skepticism, and improving communication skills.This led to the development of the following hypothesis: H2: There is relationship between Auditor Skills and Audit Quality

Impact of Accounting Information Systems on Audit Quality
The effect of accounting information systems (AIS) on the quality of audits has been the subject of much discussion in recent years.AIS is now ubiquitous in contemporary corporate operations.(Hamal & Senvar, 2021) notes that although some research suggests AIS might improve audit quality by giving auditors access to real-time and precise financial data, others believe auditors may face additional issues and hazards due to AIS adoption.The efficacy and efficiency of auditing processes may be significantly enhanced by using AIS, which is one of its primary advantages.Auditing duties like data input and analysis may be automated using AIS, allowing auditors more time for strategic work like risk assessment and fraud detection.According to Yost & Croes, (2016), AIS may also offer auditors real-time access to financial information, which can help them spot problems early in the audit process.
On the other hand, auditors may face additional obstacles and dangers due to using AIS.Drábková & Pech, (2022) argues that auditors may need specialized knowledge and abilities to make sense of the data supplied by AIS due to their growing complexity.Furthermore, if the AIS is not well built or maintained, it might raise the risk of mistakes or fraud in financial reporting.Professional skepticism and a risk-based approach to auditing may help auditors avoid these dangers and guarantee that using AIS does not lower audit standards.To assure the integrity of the AIS-produced financial data, it may be necessary to execute additional testing and verification processes.Brown et al., (2020) suggest that auditors may need to participate in continual training and professional development to stay up with the quickly developing AIS ecosystem.The accuracy and dependability of financial information are one of the primary ways AIS may affect the quality of an audit.By supplying auditors with up-to-date and precise financial data, AIS can help them spot problems early.Giving auditors a full view of the company's financial health may enhance the audit's quality.
However, auditors may face additional risks and difficulties due to the growing complexity of AIS.For instance, auditors tasked with evaluating the usage of AIS could need advanced training to make sense of the data these systems produce.Moreover, if the AIS is not well-designed or maintained, it might raise the possibility of mistakes or fraud in financial reporting (Handayani & Ibrani, 2019).Auditors need to keep their professional guard up and adopt a risk-based approach to auditing if they don't want to see the usage of AIS impair audit quality.To assure the integrity of the AISproduced financial data, it may be necessary to execute additional testing and verification processes.Auditors may also need to participate in continuing training and professional development to stay up with the ever-shifting AIS scene.
The efficiency and efficacy of auditing processes are another significant way AIS affects audit quality.By automating processes like data input and analysis, AIS allows auditors to devote their time to more complicated duties like risk assessment and fraud detection (Ishak et al., 2019).As a result, auditors may be able to save time and effort while still producing reliable results for management.However, auditors may face additional difficulties as a result of AIS implementation, notably in the area of data management.To spot problems and guarantee the quality and thoroughness of the audit, auditors need to be able to efficiently handle and analyze this data (Botha & Middelberg, 2020).The overall effect of AIS on the quality of audits is nuanced and intricate.Although AIS can significantly improve efficiency and effectiveness, auditors must always be on the lookout for any possible threats or difficulties that may arise (Liao et al., 2019).Auditors may guarantee that using AIS enhances rather than diminishes the quality of their audit work by adopting a proactive approach to risk management and maintaining a high degree of professional skepticism.This led to the development of the following hypothesis: H3: There is relationship between Accounting Information Systems and Audit Quality

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The questionnaires were distributed using google forms to over 123 respondents.Individuals that meet the research question's requirements will comprise the research population.Managers, finance officers, and management accountants were all represented in the sample pool."data collection" describes the steps taken to collect information from a population sample to answer research questions or confirm hypotheses.The research topic and the nature of the data being gathered will determine the techniques employed for data collection.Quantitative and qualitative techniques of data collecting are both possible, as are hybrids of the two.The instruments of data collection are how information is gathered.Methods might range from simple surveys to in-depth interviews, from simple observations to complex experiments.In quantitative research, questionnaires and surveys are often employed to gather information from a large population.Quantitative and qualitative research relies on in-depth interviews with select participants.Observations may collect data in natural settings, and cause-and-effect linkages can be tested in lab settings through experiments.Data collection and instruments play a crucial role in research because they provide the information required to address research questions and put hypotheses to the test.Research cannot be conducted without access to data.Furthermore, the quality and accuracy of the data, and thus the conclusions that may be taken from the research, will be affected by the choice of data-collecting technique and equipment.The validity and trustworthiness of research results depend on researchers using proper procedures and tools for data collecting.The outcomes revealed that 24% have between 1 year and 5 years of experience and 25% have between 11 years and 15 years of experience and 10% have above 16 years of experience, and 42% have between 6 and 10 years of experience.The above regression analysis shows that the model has a low R-squared value of 0.087, indicating that only 8.7% of the variation in Audit Quality is explained by the predictors (Auditor Skills, Accounting Information Systems, and Technology).The adjusted R-squared value is 0.071, suggesting that the model is not a good fit for the data.However, the coefficients table shows that all three predictors significantly positively affect Audit Quality, as their p-values are less than 0.05.This suggests that Auditor Skills, Accounting Information Systems, and Technology can contribute to improving Audit Quality.

Regression Analysis
To formulate a formula that validates the research hypothesis, we can use the coefficients obtained from the regression analysis: Audit Quality = 1.899 + (0.178 * Auditor Skills) + (0.272 * Accounting Information Systems) + (0.369 * Technology) This formula indicates that Audit Quality will likely increase if an organization invests in improving Auditor Skills, Accounting Information Systems, and Technology.Therefore, the research hypothesis that improving Auditor Skills, Accounting Information Systems, and Technology positively affects the regression analysis supports Audit Quality.The Table 3 represents the correlations among the variables of Auditor Skills, Technology, Accounting Information Systems, and Audit Quality.

Pearson Correlations
The Pearson correlation coefficient is used to measure the strength and direction of the linear relationship between two variables.The correlation coefficient ranges from -1 to 1, where -1 indicates a perfect negative correlation, 0 indicates no correlation, and 1 indicates a perfect positive correlation.
Looking at the Table 3, we can see that: Auditor Skills and Technology have a positive correlation of .274,statistically significant (p < .001).
Auditor Skills and Accounting Information Systems have a positive correlation of .236,which is also statistically significant (p < .001).
Technology and Accounting Information Systems have a positive correlation of .266,statistically significant (p < .001).
Audit Quality has a positive correlation with all the other variables: .341with Auditor Skills (p < .001),.507with Technology (p < .001),and .369with Accounting Information Systems (p < .001).
These results suggest a relationship between the variables, but correlation does not necessarily imply causation.Further analysis is needed to determine the nature of the relationships between these variables.The component matrix shows the factor loadings for each variable in the principal component analysis.The values represent the correlation between each variable and the extracted principal component.This analysis has one principal component, labeled as "Component 1".The component matrix indicates that all variables have strong positive loadings on Component 1. Specifically, Auditor Skills has a loading of .753,Technology has a loading of .766,Accounting Information Systems has a loading of .836,and Audit Quality has a loading of .812.These high factor loadings suggest that Component 1 is a meaningful construct that captures the shared variance among the four variables.This principal component can be interpreted as a general measure of the level of expertise and proficiency of auditors in utilizing technology and accounting information systems to improve Audit Quality.

DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
Today's businesses rely heavily on accounting information systems (AIS) to record, analyze, and share financial transactions and related information.The use of AIS by auditors has also become crucial as a means of improving Audit Quality.With AIS, auditors can quickly and accurately analyze massive amounts of data compared to manual processes.Auditors may save time and money by analyzing real-time financial transactions thanks to AIS integration.Auditors may also utilize AIS to detect threats and fraud so that they can advise on safeguards.Using AIS, the audit process may be automated, allowing auditors more time for strategic work like analyzing financial figures and making suggestions to management.The wealth of financial data made available by AIS can only help when it comes to audit representation.Auditors may use AIS to spot irregularities, patterns, and trends requiring additional examination.As a result, auditors can provide a more thorough audit report addressing all concerns.Using AIS also allows auditors to deliver more comprehensive and accurate audit representations, further improving openness and accountability.When it comes to enhancing Audit Quality, AIS is crucial.Auditors that use AIS can speed up the auditing process, save on expenses, and provide more thorough and accurate audit reports.More and more auditors will need to rely on AIS to keep up with the demands of today's complicated corporate environment.
Technical proficiency, critical thinking, and effective communication are all essential in auditing.The auditor's proficiency in using these abilities is crucial to completing and communicating audit engagements.In this article, we'll look at how auditor expertise affects the quality of an audit.
The quality of an audit is heavily dependent on the auditor's abilities.Auditing requires not just technical knowledge but also analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.An auditor's ability to analyze data and solve problems is crucial for spotting threats, assessing their significance, and developing prudent auditing protocols.The ability to communicate effectively is also essential in auditing.Auditors must communicate clearly with clients, stakeholders, and other audit team members to ensure audit engagements are carried out quickly and successfully.The competence of the auditors doing the audit also matters.Effective audit representation requires the capacity to examine financial data, spot patterns, and outliers, and convey audit findings to stakeholders.Auditors with superior analytical and problem-solving abilities provide more thorough audit reports by spotting more risks and frauds.Strong communication skills are necessary to guarantee that management and other stakeholders understand and act on audit findings.The proficiency of the auditor is a significant factor in the caliber of the audit.Successful audit engagements need technical knowledge, analytical thinking, problem resolution, and communication skills.Due to the ever-increasing complexity of today's corporate world, auditors must maintain and improve their proficiency in these areas.Businesses will benefit from more openness and accountability if auditors can offer more precise, thorough, and efficient audit reports.

RECOMMENDATIONS
Audit companies must invest in the growth and education of their auditors to keep pace with the dynamic nature of the modern corporate world.Companies may guarantee their auditors are prepared to handle new problems and spot new dangers by providing them with the latest information, technical competence, and analytical skills.Accounting and auditing methods are just part of what training programs should cover; they should also include data analytics, technology, and "soft skills" like communication and teamwork.
The auditing industry has been transformed by technological developments, which have opened up several possibilities for improving Audit Quality.Businesses should use automation solutions and data analytics software to reduce audit time and enhance accuracy and thoroughness in analyzing financial data.In addition, auditors that embrace digital transformation are better equipped to manage massive amounts of data, spot trends, and outliers, and provide more insightful findings.
Clearly and concisely delivering audit findings to management and stakeholders is a cornerstone of effective audit engagements.Auditors must develop communication skills to make their reports clear, convincing, and helpful.Auditors, customers, and stakeholders can better communicate and collaborate in an atmosphere encouraging open communication and attentive listening.
Audit teams can only function at their highest potential when they foster a culture of cooperation that promotes the exchange of information, expertise, and ideas.Audit companies must cultivate an atmosphere that encourages collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving by bringing together employees with different backgrounds and skill sets.Collaboration improves audit quality and guarantees a more complete and accurate portrayal of the company being audited.
Audit companies must prioritize openness in their operations and outputs to develop stakeholder trust and confidence.Stakeholders should be able to make educated choices based on complete and objective information thanks to transparent audit reports communicating audit findings clearly, thoroughly, and impartially.In addition, embracing openness encourages accountability, raises public confidence in audits, and boosts the auditing industry's overall standing.Audit engagements rely heavily on efficient risk management.Audit companies should prioritize risk identification and the development of effective risk mitigation plans, both at the business and engagement levels.Incorporating a risk-based approach into the audit process allows auditors to allocate resources better, focus on areas with the highest risk, and give a more trustworthy picture of the audited entity's financial condition and performance.
Improving Audit Quality requires a holistic strategy that includes training and education for professionals, using new technologies, strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, openness to feedback, and managing potential threats.Audit companies may better equip themselves to deal with the complexity of the modern corporate environment if they follow these ideas and use them to provide high-quality, dependable, and actionable insights to stakeholders.

AREA FOR FURTHER RESEARCH
To stay up with the ever-changing needs of contemporary businesses, audit firms must continually support the professional development of their auditors.By equipping its auditors with up-to-date knowledge, technical know-how, and analytical abilities, companies may ensure their readiness to handle emerging challenges and identify emerging risks.Training programs should include topics like accounting and auditing techniques, data analytics, technology, and "soft skills" like communication and collaboration.The auditing landscape has changed due to technological advancements, providing new opportunities to increase audit effectiveness and efficiency.Modern technology, such as data analytics tools and automation solutions, may help businesses speed up audits, improve accuracy, and streamline the full review of financial data.Auditors that embrace digital transformation may also better handle large data sets, identify patterns and anomalies, and provide more meaningful results.One of the most critical aspects of conducting successful audit engagements is communicating audit findings to management and other stakeholders clearly and straightforwardly.The auditor's ability to convey a message should be honed to be unambiguous, compelling, and straightforward.If audit firms foster an environment of openness and listening among auditors, clients, and stakeholders, it may help increase communication and feedback.
Cooperation and the free flow of information, skills, and ideas are essential for audit teams to perform at their best.By combining personnel with various experiences and perspectives, audit firms may create an environment that fosters teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving.Working together raises the bar for audit quality and ensures a more comprehensive and accurate picture of the organization under review.Audit firms must be completely transparent with their stakeholders to earn their trust.By laying out audit findings in a straightforward, comprehensive, and unbiased manner, transparent audit reports offer stakeholders reliable data.In addition, welcoming transparency fosters accountability, enhances the perception of audit quality, and raises the profile of the auditing profession as a whole.
Risk management is crucial to the success of audit engagements.Audit firms should make a risk assessment at both the corporate and employment levels and create efficient risk mitigation processes as top priorities.The auditors may be able to more effectively allocate resources, zero in on the areas with the most room for mistake and provide a more reliable picture of the entity's financial health and performance if they use a risk-based strategy.In conclusion, enhancing Audit Quality requires a comprehensive approach incorporating continuing professional development (CPD), technology adoption, strong communication, cooperation, transparency, and risk management.By adopting and implementing these practices, audit firms may better prepare themselves to meet the challenges of the complex business world of today and tomorrow.
Figure 1.GenderThe results revealed that 59% are males and 41% are females.

Figure 3 .
Figure 3. Years of Experience

Table 3 .
Validity and Reliability Analysis