Getting Started with Data Analytics using IDEA 

Overview: 

Data analytics has been a part of auditing since the 1970’s, initially to primarily organize and streamline “store-audits”.  However, today many auditing functions struggle to make the dream a reality. In this workshop, participants will explore real strategies for defining, implementing and maintaining a data analytics program. In a facilitated workshop format attendees will get a chance to use professional purpose built data analysis software – IDEA.  While certainly software like IDEA has a reputation for use to handle the big jobs, it is just as easy at handling normal everyday auditing tasks. 

This is a hands-on workshop, so you will be learning in a classroom setting with PC pre-loaded with IDEA.   Instructor will provide course manual and data files at class.  After class, you can obtain a full evaluation copy of IDEA and data files so you can continue to practice what you learn in class.   You are encouraged to bring a flash drive/CD to copy your works created in class.  

We will cover all aspects of data analysis from importing data files, conducting interrogation and analysis, reporting format options and automating the process to make the routine repeatable and continuous.    
Learn about the most common challenges facing organizations and proven techniques for avoiding or mitigating these risks. Hear of successful analytics used by internal auditors taken from the news.  The instructor will also offer some real experiences in finding fraud.  While the course will follow a no auditor left behind pace the course will explore advanced techniques for reporting results for maximum value.  By the end of this workshop, participants will walk away with a greatly enhanced understanding of data analytics that could be applied on audits already in progress or soon to start audits.
At the conclusion, attendees will be better prepared to:
• Develop a short- and longer-term analytics vision
• Create a resourcing and retention strategy
• Define key development and QA standards
• Create high-value analytics
• Outline a training and development approach
• Articulate advanced techniques for reporting results and dealing with false-positives

Speaker:  Don Sparks, CIA, CISA, CRMA, ARM, Vice President of Industry Relations, Audimation Services, Inc.

Don Sparks has 30 years of experience in finding significant errors and fraud using data analysis software in the property casualty insurance industry, including 12 years as a chief audit executive and corporate director. He also worked for The IIA, where he was responsible for reviving Global Audit Information Network (GAIN) benchmarking services and introducing Flash Surveys and live-streaming video monthly web casts. After The IIA, Sparks served as a director in public accounting, PwC and McGladrey, where he worked with several clients to achieve Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 IT compliance.  In 2006 Don joined Audimation Services, the USA distributor of CaseWare IDEA, to support internal auditing initiatives. In June 2011 on a unique assignment, Don created, developed and programmed the Auditchannel.tv web site for The IIA, a project he started in 2004 while at The IIA.

Course Duration: 8 hours 

CPE Hours Available: 8 NASBA 

Knowledge Level: All levels

Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge and Applications

Prerequisites: Instructor will provide course manual and data CD at start of class.  Students can obtain a full evaluation copy of IDEA and data files after class so they can continue to work with what learn in class.

Advance Preparation: None. Computers will be available at venue.

Delivery Format: Group-Live 

Fees:  

Member: $299 register and pay by 6/14/13| $349 register and/or pay after 6/14/13

Non-member: $349 register and pay by 6/14/13| $399 register and/or pay after 6/14/13

In order to receive the early discounted rate, you must pay for the event by 6/14/13.  Please see the refund and forms of payment policies at the bottom of this email.

 Refund Policy: We understand that sometimes conflicts occur that may prevent you from attending an event for which you have registered. However, the DC Chapter is required by the venue to provide a final headcount, and we are obligated to pay for anyone who has registered. If you are unable to attend the event, you must notify us 3 days prior to the event, and we will credit your prepaid registration fee to a future event. 

Forms of Payment: We accept credit cards through the PayPal at the time of registration. Please select the PayPal option on the registration form. You may also pay by cash or check at the door on the day of the event. We are unable to accept credit cards at the door. 

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, June 26,  2013

Schedule: 9:00 am-4:30pm - Sign in and presentation 

Institute of Internal Auditors-Washington DC is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors.  State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit.  Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.learningmarket.org.