The state of audit transformation:
Firms are redefining assurance in a digital era

Technology is reshaping audit, with firms embracing cloud solutions and AI to boost efficiency, improve quality, and enable remote work. While most firms have modernized their tech stacks, many are still cautious—citing integration challenges and usability issues—but those experimenting with AI are already seeing major gains.

Efficiency is driving the next wave of audit transformation as firms work to streamline processes, cut redundant tasks, and upskill staff to use new technologies. The most advanced firms see efficiency not just as speed, but as a way to free capacity for deeper analysis, better client insights, and higher audit quality.

Many firms are still stuck in “Same As Last Year” habits, struggling to fully adopt risk-based approaches, data analytics, and diverse skill sets that drive audit transformation. Those embracing new methodologies and technologies are finding that while the shift requires retraining and mindset change, it leads to smarter audits, stronger teams, and lasting gains in quality and efficiency.

Traditional audit metrics like realization and billable hours still dominate, but they’re losing relevance as technology reshapes how work gets done. Forward-looking firms are starting to track new indicators—like deliverable quality, client readiness, and audit margin—that better reflect value, efficiency, and the true impact of transformation.

Firms advancing in audit transformation are finding that technology goes beyond improved accuracy; it enhances the experience for both clients and staff. By using advanced tools to create smoother audits, deliver actionable insights, and reduce tedious work, these firms are building stronger client relationships and more engaged, motivated teams.