Why Mobile Audits Are the Future of Auditing

Tools like mobile audit checklists have transformed the way businesses collect data about their operating procedures. Now widely available, they are steadily gaining ground in terms of usage.

This is a big change from a few years ago, when mobile solutions were only available to top corporations that could afford expensive, complex software. With more affordable and easy-to-use solutions now available, even sole proprietorships and small businesses are taking advantage of mobile tools used for compliance analysis and in-depth data collection.

The growing popularity of audit apps isn’t surprising given that audit processes are typically done in the field, meaning auditors require tools that can be easily used outside the confines of an office. But don't be fooled, mobility is only one of the many benefits of mobile audit checklists.

Here are six reasons mobile audits are the future of auditing:

1. Richer data collection
2. Simple user interface
3. Offline capabilities
4. Real-time results
5. Data-driven business decisions
6. Cost-effective

1. Richer data collection

With a mobile audit checklist, auditors enjoy not only the mobility of their audit software but also other tools that come with the latest handheld devices. Apart from the easy access to cloud databases, auditors can also use device cameras to capture photos that will provide added verification to audit records.

2. Simple user interface

Mobile apps should be designed with user experience in mind. Developers know that handheld devices have small workable screens compared to desktops or columnar notebooks. With this in mind, you can expect an audit app to be easy for field teams to use, and help them complete audits effeciently. Additionally, reporting and audit results are clearly displayed in charts and graphs so operations managers can gain instant insights from anywhere.

3. Offline capabilities

A good audit app should allow auditors to work offline without the risk of losing any data captured. By ensuring a continuous workflow even without Internet connectivity, mobile audit checklists can conveniently work anywhere. Auditors can say goodbye to paper forms that take ages to accomplish and risk the accuracy and quality of data collected.

4. Real-time results

One of the most powerful features of a mobile audit checklist is that you can submit audits in real-time to your entire team. Anyone who needs to see results will be able to view them immediately after an audit is submitted. Additionally, any issues found during the audit will be flagged to those responsible for fixing them. This allows any problems to be fixed faster.

5. Data-driven business decisions

Using a mobile audit app will allow you to collect real-time rich data, which can help you approach the management and structure of your operations and make strategic decisions based on data collected.

6. Cost-effective

Mobile audit apps allow you to minimize costs and speed up efficiency. Your teams will be able to work autonomously, performing their own internal reviews as they continue to focus on their work.

Conclusion

Mobile audit apps offer a lot to any business; much more than just the ability for teams to conduct audits on their smartphones or tablets. They are also easy to use, facilitate richer data collection, support offline data collection, give you access to real-time results and enable you to make data-driven business decisions all while minimizing costs.