The Audit Quality: A Systematic Review of Key Factors and Future Directions

Abstract

This study presents a systematic literature review on Audit Quality, focusing on its key determinants and the evolving dynamics within the audit profession. The problem addressed is the need for a comprehensive understanding of how various factors such as auditor independence, firm size, and regulatory frameworks influence audit quality, particularly in a rapidly changing business and technological environment. The research objective is to synthesize existing studies and identify gaps in the literature to provide direction for future research in the field. Using the Scopus database, we applied a systematic review process, including keyword searches and filtering criteria, to select relevant academic papers. The data were analyzed qualitatively to explore the trends, challenges, and advancements in audit quality research. Our findings reveal that while traditional factors such as auditor competence and regulatory impact remain crucial, there is a growing need to investigate the role of technological innovations, such as data analytics and artificial intelligence, in enhancing audit processes. Furthermore, gaps were identified in understanding how these innovations influence audit quality in practical settings. This review offers critical insights for both researchers and practitioners, highlighting the importance of integrating new technologies with traditional audit methods to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of audits.