Audit Efficiency and Effectiveness Consequences of Accounting System Homogeneity across Audit Clients: A New Form of Knowledge Spillover?
研究了审计事务所中大量客户使用相同企业资源计划系统（如SAP或Oracle）对审计效率和效果的影响，发现会计系统同质性降低审计费用并提高审计质量，体现了一种新形式的知识溢出。
ABSTRACT We examine the effects of a large number of clients in an audit office using the same enterprise-resource planning (ERP) system such as SAP or Oracle resulting in what we term “client accounting system homogeneity” on audit efficiency and effectiveness. Using a unique dataset of ERP system implementations, we find that accounting system homogeneity is positively associated with audit efficiency. Specifically, we find lower (higher) audit fees for clients using an ERP system from a vendor used by a higher (lower) proportion of clients in that office. We further document that accounting system homogeneity is associated with improved audit effectiveness as proxied by two accruals-based measures, incorrect internal control weakness reporting, and restatements. Our findings are reflective of a new form of knowledge spillover from repeated experiences auditing clients using similar accounting systems, resulting in audits that are not only less expensive but also of higher quality. Data Availability: Contact the authors.