The determinants of IT audit usage in Saudi Arabia with specific reference to computer audit assisted tools

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the determinants and the intention to use information technology (IT) audit technologies. Design/methodology/approach The research model explores the external and internal factors that influence IT audit usage in Saudi Arabia. The external factors include IT audit education, professional support provided by professional accounting and auditing bodies, external pressure and social factors. The internal factors include the firm’s organizational support, complexity of accounting information systems, IT audit competency, adoption risk, ease of use and readiness. These factors affect the intention to use IT audits, represented by the perceived benefits and intention to use IT audits, which in turn affect IT audit usage. The study uses structural equation modelling to estimate a sample size of 261 respondents. Findings The findings suggest that internal factors significantly influence both IT audit usage and intention to use IT audits. However, the external factors exhibit insignificant associations with IT audit usage. The findings also indicate that IT auditors in Saudi Arabia heavily rely on Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word and email/Outlook as essential IT audit tools. However, the findings reveal that there is still a role for specialized IT audit tools such as generalized audit software and Audit Command Language but this usage is marginal. Practical implications The present study provides significant insights for auditors, companies’ boards, professional bodies and policymakers to enhance the development and usage of IT audits. The study revealed the absence of supportive external factors that policymakers and professional bodies should exercise in this regard. The findings also indicate that IT audit education and capacity programmes are required to promote competency and adoption of IT audit technologies. Originality/value The study contributes to IT auditing by identifying significant factors influencing IT audit adoption. It underlines the relevance of internal and external determinants and perceived benefits as drivers of IT audit adoption. The current study provides an original piece of research that highlights a comprehensive investigation of the determinates of IT audit usage in a developing country that is shifting towards artificial intelligence and IT advancements.