ESSENCE AND MAIN ELEMENTS OF PROFESSIONAL AUDIT ACTIVITY

Abstract

Purpose. The aim of the article is the analysis and generalization of scientific approaches to the definition of the essence of the concept of “professional audit activity”, the definition of its main structural elements and the peculiarities of their further development. Methodology of research. The following methods have been applied to achieve this goal in the research process: induction and deduction (in the study of the main characteristics of the external and internal components of professional activity); grouping and systematic approach (in systematizing elements and components of professional audit activity, studying the features and problems of their development). Findings. The approaches to the definition of the essence of the concept of “professional audit activity” are investigated. The author's interpretation of this definition, in particular, under the professional audit activity, should be understood as the purposeful process of providing audit services consisting of the quintessence of professional competence, professional abilities, ethics and responsibility of the auditor, their practical implementation in order to achieve a high level of professional skills and public confidence. The basic components and elements of professional audit activity are established, as well as features of the formation and development of isolated elements taking into account the European integration processes and changes in legislation. Originality. The basic constituents of components and elements of professional audit activity as a dynamic system are determined; the main shortcomings and directions of further development of separate elements of professional audit activity are substantiated. Practical value. The results of the study can be used in the preparation of auditors, their continuous training and the improvement of professional knowledge, information support for the adoption of effective managerial decisions on the modernization of the training system of audit specialists.