Value-added Assurance Services
If a client is implementing e-business intro their company, they are more than likely going to a value-added network provider to secure their website. This gives CPAs, in this case Peabody and Fisk, the chance to provide assurance to user organizations. Peabody and Fisk may offer to review, test, and evaluate the control, integrity, and security of the VAN that is being used. CPAs can also review and test the control and security features of any software packages a user may be considering. Another way Peabody and Fisk may provide assurance by assessing the reliability and integrity of the trusted key provider, or even by acting as a trusted third-party provider.
If Peabody and Fisk want to be a significant provider of assurance in this new e-business world, they should probably develop a set of criteria that providers must have in order to be a candidate for their client to use. Having criteria and abiding by them, will allow Peabody and Fisk to be a more significant provider of assurance. In order to compete with outside sources Peabody and Fisk should also develop new competencies, to keep up with today s technology. For example, Peabody and Fisk need to show their clients they are knowledgeable of the concepts and risks of information technology and e-business. This knowledge should also include the evolving methods to measure and control those risks. Peabody and Fisk must assure their clients they are competent and will continue to learn more in order to provide them with the best service.