ACCA Audit and Assurance (F8) Practice Exam

Which is a key consideration when engaging an Auditor's Expert?

1. The expert's availability

2. The roles and responsibilities assigned

3. The expert's location

4. The cost of engagement

The correct answer is: The roles and responsibilities assigned

When engaging an Auditor's Expert, a key consideration is the roles and responsibilities assigned to that expert. This is vital because clearly defining the expert's role ensures that expectations are aligned between the auditor and the expert, facilitating effective collaboration. Understanding the scope of work, the level of involvement expected, and how the expert's input will be integrated into the audit process is critical for maintaining the integrity and quality of the audit. The roles and responsibilities assigned must be well articulated to minimize the risk of misunderstandings and to ensure that the expert's work is relevant and appropriately directed toward the audit objectives. This helps auditors utilize the expert's skills effectively, thereby enhancing the overall audit outcome. While aspects like the expert's availability, location, and cost of engagement are practical considerations that may impact the decision to engage an expert, they do not directly address the functional integration of the expert within the audit process as effectively as the roles and responsibilities do. Focusing on role clarity allows for a more structured approach to involving an expert's insights, ultimately contributing to the audit’s success.