Certified Information Systems Auditor Practice Exam

Using source code comparison software serves the essential purpose of examining program changes effectively, often without the need for direct input from Information Systems (IS) personnel. This software allows auditors and developers to identify the differences between various versions of source code, highlighting modifications, additions, or deletions made during the change process.

This capability is crucial in the context of program change control because it ensures that any alterations to the codebase can be scrutinized independently. By analyzing the changes through comparison software, stakeholders can verify that proper change management procedures were followed, and that the changes align with established coding standards and security protocols. This independent examination can lead to a more objective assessment of the integrity and security of software applications.

In contrast, other options focus on aspects that do not directly correlate to the primary use of source code comparison software in the context of evaluating program changes. For instance, while coding standards might be indirectly addressed by highlighting deviations in the code, this is not the main function of such software. Team discussions and performance metrics are more relevant to project management and evaluation rather than the specific analysis of code changes facilitated by comparison tools.