Technology: a central theme of the IAASB’s audit evidence and risk response proposals
2 October 2026
The use of emerging technologies, like AI, is transforming how entities operate and how assurance practitioners plan and perform their work.
These tools provide opportunities, but they also introduce new risks to audit quality that we need to understand and manage. The good news is that:
You can have your say. We are consulting on the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB)'s proposed revisions to the audit evidence and risk response standards, so they remain clear, practical and responsive to technological change while continuing to support high-quality audits.
There are proposed changes to three key auditing standards: ISA 330 The Auditor’s Responses to Assessed Risk, ISA 500 Audit Evidence, and ISA 520 Analytical Procedures.
The proposals are to keep the standards principles-based and flexible, rather than adding detailed technology-specific requirements now. Technology advancements may make auditor’s testing an entity’s controls more prominent. The proposals explore when test of controls alone may be enough to respond to risks of material misstatement. Views are also specifically asked whether, for material balances, if the auditor has not identified a risk of material misstatement should the standards still require some substantive audit work. We need to hear from preparers and users, as well as practitioners. Feedback is due to the XRB by 11 November 2026.
The fundamentals still apply. While technology is changing how audits are performed, it is not changing why they are performed. Auditors still need to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence, respond to assessed risks, and apply professional judgement and professional scepticism.
Standard setters have a key role to play. We will continue to ensure standards and guidance remain relevant and fit for purpose, providing the confidence and guardrails needed to support trust, quality and innovation.
So, while technology is changing reporting and assurance you can be sure that standards are still key to providing trust and confidence!
For more information see our audit evidence and risk response page
Read the consultation document
Provide feedback to the by written submission, email or through our engagement events