（2002）Holistic, Continuous Assurance Integration：e-Business Opportunities and Challenges.pdfVIP

Joumal of Information Systems Vol. 16 2002 Supplement pp. !-20 Holistic, Continuous Assurance Integration : e-Business Opportunities and Challenges Marilyn M. Greenstein Arizona State University West Amy W. Ray Bentley College ABSTRACT: This paper explores the impact of web-based e-business operations on client firm processes and accounting methods, and addresses related issues for accounting firm assurance services teams to consider, In particular, some of the complications and potential problems associated with the use of traditional assurance methods on e-businesses with digital operating environments are discussed. The flexibility required to respond to the ever- changing business environment of e-enabled client firms will require accounting firm lead- ers to rethink and reengineer existing management structures and practices. While clients of accounting firms are realizing tremendous value by streamlining information flows and in- creasing information sharing internally and externally, accounting firms remain organized primarily into discreet functions that often compete internally for customers. An e-business model, the Customer-Oriented Value Chain, is employed to frame the dis- cussion of emerging accounting issues resulting from new digital business practices. Within this context we develop 16 propositions regarding potential methods accounting firms may consider applying for two purposes: (1) better alignment of traditional assurance practices with client firm e-business activities, and (2) better integrati