Abstract
The evolution and expansion of technology and more specifically automation, has significantly influenced the development of certain processes within organisations. Successful implementation of robotic process automation (RPA), in an effort not to get left behind the curve, is therefore becoming extremely crucial to all organisations. Audit functions are currently in high demand to act as a sounding board for management. Thus, implementation should ensure that all relevant factors, such as key controls, key risk, and governance processes are in place. The aim of this study is to explore the value derived from the implementation, as well as to assess the importance, of the role of the auditor in the successful adoption of RPA, and the implementation thereof. Firstly, the PRISMA was conducted delineating the RPA processes and their perceived benefits or value and the skills and knowledge required of business process owners and their auditors. Thereafter, structured interviews were conducted with specialists and experts in the field who have the relevant knowledge related to RPA.
The study revealed that implementing RPA in an organization increases the value of the internal audit function. During Phase 2 of the study (interviewing participants), it was observed that most participants had extensively implemented RPA within their processes. This was particularly true for monthly reporting, monthly monitoring, month-end transactions such as billing, and automated scheduling of debit orders. Additionally, 70% of the participants reported that RPA had been implemented in their internal audit functions, while all participants indicated that RPA was more extensively used in the business unit compared to the audit functions. The interview responses reveal that audit functions primarily use RPA for routine tasks such as reporting and issue tracking.
The systematic literature review further revealed that RPA creates immense value and benefits for any organisation. During interview phase of the study, all interviewees highlighted clear efficiencies in their processes, noting that employees could now focus on value-added tasks. Additionally, most participants recognized other benefits such as enhanced turnaround times, and improved accuracy and quality of data. They emphasized that quicker turnaround times were possible because specific tasks and inquiries could be processed at any time, not just during
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normal working hours. Participants had varied opinions on the cost-saving benefits of implementing RPA. The research confirmed that to effectively and efficiently audit processes and controls involving RPA, auditors needed a combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills. Thus, the results of this study confirmed that value is derived from and has been observed in the implementation use cases. In conclusion, this dissertation emphasizes that auditors play a pivotal role before, during, and after the implementation of the RPA processes.