What is the primary advantage of a continuous audit approach?

A continuous audit approach primarily enables the IS auditor to review and follow up on audit issues in a timely manner. This method provides ongoing, real-time insights into the organization's processes and controls, allowing the auditor to monitor compliance and performance continuously rather than waiting for a periodic audit cycle. By doing so, auditors can identify and respond to issues as they arise, which improves the effectiveness of the auditing process and aids in developing timely recommendations.

Timely follow-up on audit findings is critical in maintaining accountability and ensuring that corrective actions are implemented efficiently. The continuous nature of this audit approach strengthens oversight and can contribute to a culture of proactive risk management within the organization.

The other choices, while they may reflect secondary benefits or outcomes of a continuous audit approach, do not capture its primary advantage as effectively as the ability to provide timely reviews and follow-ups on issues. For instance, while conducting more audits per year is a potential outcome, it does not inherently enhance the quality and effectiveness of the audit process. Immediate corrections might be facilitated, but the primary advantage focuses on the follow-up aspect, ensuring that any identified issues are promptly addressed. Enhanced reporting efficiency, while beneficial, is also not the central focus of continuous auditing compared to the more proactive and responsive nature of regular review