Thank you for sharing your experience and reflections on your time at PKF Sridhar & Santhanam. It's clear that the training and mentorship you received from the partners and senior staff had a profound impact and helped lay a strong foundation for your career. I'm glad to hear you take pride in having completed your articles at S&S rather than a big six firm, as that training clearly served you well over your career. Stories like yours help illustrate the value of a smaller firm environment for professional development.
Claraluz reflete profundamente sobre sua vida e decide desmarcar seu casamento com Barretto, com quem percebeu que não quer se casar. Ela liga para sua amiga Regina para contar sobre sua decisão, e Regina a apoia, mas a alerta que não será fácil enfrentar a fúria de sua família e da sociedade, que já anunciaram o casamento.
El documento argumenta que la cultura es esencial para el progreso económico y social de una sociedad. Señala que las empresas deben satisfacer las necesidades culturales de la sociedad y desarrollar el capital humano a través de la inversión en cultura. También propone formas en que las empresas pueden vincularse con el arte y la cultura para mejorar su imagen e innovación.
Este documento discute el tipo de programación adecuada para un chip de recopilación de datos en un espirómetro. Se sugiere que la programación debería considerar el tipo y cantidad de datos recopilados, el tiempo necesario y cómo el tiempo podría afectar los datos. La programación debería ser diseñada por profesores expertos en sistemas para asegurar resultados útiles. La programación también debería considerar el propósito y usuarios previstos del espirómetro.
Claraluz reflete profundamente sobre sua vida e decide desmarcar seu casamento com Barretto, com quem percebeu que não quer se casar. Ela liga para sua amiga Regina para contar sobre sua decisão, e Regina a apoia, mas a alerta que não será fácil enfrentar a fúria de sua família e da sociedade, que já anunciaram o casamento.
El documento argumenta que la cultura es esencial para el progreso económico y social de una sociedad. Señala que las empresas deben satisfacer las necesidades culturales de la sociedad y desarrollar el capital humano a través de la inversión en cultura. También propone formas en que las empresas pueden vincularse con el arte y la cultura para mejorar su imagen e innovación.
Este documento discute el tipo de programación adecuada para un chip de recopilación de datos en un espirómetro. Se sugiere que la programación debería considerar el tipo y cantidad de datos recopilados, el tiempo necesario y cómo el tiempo podría afectar los datos. La programación debería ser diseñada por profesores expertos en sistemas para asegurar resultados útiles. La programación también debería considerar el propósito y usuarios previstos del espirómetro.
Los alumnos de segundo grado organizan un evento musical el miércoles 23 en el patio de la escuela para que los estudiantes demuestren sus conocimientos sobre música.
Este documento proporciona instrucciones para usar Wifiway 2.0.1, un programa Linux que permite hackear redes WiFi desprotegidas mediante el uso de aircrack-ng. Las instrucciones incluyen iniciar Wifiway, configurar la tarjeta de red inalámbrica en modo monitor, escanear redes WiFi cercanas, seleccionar una red objetivo, lanzar ataques de autenticación falsa para capturar paquetes de datos, y luego usar esos datos para crackear las contraseñas de las redes seleccionadas
O documento descreve o que é ser um web designer, as características e habilidades necessárias para a profissão, como criatividade e conhecimento de tecnologia. Também explica as principais atividades de um web designer, como criar layouts funcionais e gerenciar atualizações de sites, e suas áreas de atuação, como designer de interface e multimídia. Por fim, discute o mercado de trabalho em expansão para web designers.
This very short document appears to be a test containing the word "Test" repeated multiple times. It was authored by Robert but does not contain much substantive information beyond demonstrating the author's name and the purpose of testing something.
Este documento discute varios aspectos clave de la enseñanza. Define la enseñanza como una práctica social regulada que implica la transmisión intencional de contenidos por parte del docente. Explora las características particulares de la acción docente, como ser un mediador entre los estudiantes y el conocimiento. También analiza estrategias para la integración de contenidos, como relacionarlos desde la perspectiva del conocimiento para proveer significatividad a los estudiantes. Finalmente, examina el uso de la narración y preguntas de diferentes
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Este discurso de Cantinflas ante las Naciones Unidas resume en tres ideas principales:
1. Critica tanto a los "Verdes" (Estados Unidos y aliados) como a los "Colorados" (países comunistas) por tratar de imponer sus sistemas políticos y económicos en otros países por la fuerza en lugar de respetar su soberanía.
2. Pide a los países poderosos que ayuden a los países más débiles a través de la cooperación y el respeto mutuo en lugar de préstamos o alianzas militares, compart
The audit cycle performance consists of planning, preliminary survey, understanding the entity, identifying key areas and objectives, determining audit criteria, collecting evidence, generating working papers, and preparing audit findings. The initial stages involve obtaining general information on the company and identifying important areas to focus on. Later stages are testing evidence, documenting results, and communicating findings to the audited entity in a clear and understandable manner.
There is increasing competition and commoditization in the information security marketplace.
For better or worse, pure technical knowledge and experience is not enough. InfoSec companies must go out of their way to demonstrate and communicate their value to potential clients. This includes optimizing and standardizing internal processes and client-facing communications. This article (the first in a series) discusses the problems facing InfoSec companies and some strategies for standing out from the crowd.
Here are the key points I would reflect on from this case:
- Maintaining integrity and independence is important as an auditor, even when under budget pressure. Falsifying time spent on audit procedures violates accounting standards and ethics.
- Learning to manage expectations and communicate issues with the engagement team is an important skill. Being transparent about delays outside of my control allows for informed decision making.
- Understanding motivations and pressures at different levels (e.g. manager's promotion review) provides context, but cannot justify compromising audit quality or standards.
- Gaining experience and trusting my own judgment, while also seeking advice from more experienced team members. Knowing when "stuff happens all the time" is acceptable versus a red
Write Papers For Money. Writing Papers For Money Online. 2022-10-15Sarah Jimenez
This document provides instructions for writing papers for money online by using the website HelpWriting.net. It outlines a 5-step process: 1) Create an account with valid email and password, 2) Complete a 10-minute order form providing instructions, sources, and deadline, 3) Review bids from writers and choose one based on qualifications, 4) Review the completed paper and authorize payment if satisfied, 5) Request revisions until fully satisfied, with the option of a full refund for plagiarized work. The goal is to ensure customer satisfaction and provide original, high-quality content.
Agency specialized in Customer Experience measurement & management. This document summaries our research capabilities: how we work and what makes us different. Look beyond your current research.
This document provides instructions for requesting an assignment writing service from HelpWriting.net. It outlines a 5-step process: 1) Create an account, 2) Complete an order form providing instructions, sources, and deadline, 3) Review bids from writers and select one, 4) Review the completed paper and authorize payment, 5) Request revisions until satisfied. It emphasizes that original, high-quality content is guaranteed, with refunds offered for plagiarized work. Customers can request revisions to ensure their needs are fully met.
Ivory Essay Uk. Online assignment writing service.Tonya Jackson
The document provides instructions for using a writing service called HelpWriting.net. It outlines a 5-step process: 1) Create an account with a password and email. 2) Complete a 10-minute order form providing instructions, sources, and deadline. 3) Review bids from writers and choose one based on qualifications. 4) Review the completed paper and authorize payment if satisfied. 5) Request revisions to ensure satisfaction, and the company offers refunds for plagiarized work.
A set of slides used to support a discussion at the Center for Design Research at Stanford University. Trying to move Design Thinking to DT2.0 so that it is fit for the next phase of development. Time to move from just doing "empathy" to a more system wide approach now that the IIOT/IND4.0 is really here and we have people, equipment, devices and processes all working (or not) together.
Tools and Techniques for Quality ManagementNazrul Islam
The tools and techniques most commonly used in Quality management and process improvement are: Cause and effect diagram. Control Charts. Histogram. Pareto Charts.
Medieval Europe History Essay. Online assignment writing service.Heather Brown
The document provides instructions for creating an account and submitting an assignment request on the HelpWriting.net site, including completing an order form, choosing a writer based on their qualifications and reviews, and reviewing and authorizing payment for the completed assignment. It also notes that revisions are allowed and guarantees original, high-quality content or a full refund.
Chapter 10 Tools and Techniques for Quality Management.pptDr. Nazrul Islam
QMS have sub-elements, or tools, that enable users to tailor its use to specific project needs. There are seven conventional QMS tools: flow charts, Ishikawa diagrams, checklists, Pareto charts, histograms, scattergrams, and control charts.
Los alumnos de segundo grado organizan un evento musical el miércoles 23 en el patio de la escuela para que los estudiantes demuestren sus conocimientos sobre música.
Este documento proporciona instrucciones para usar Wifiway 2.0.1, un programa Linux que permite hackear redes WiFi desprotegidas mediante el uso de aircrack-ng. Las instrucciones incluyen iniciar Wifiway, configurar la tarjeta de red inalámbrica en modo monitor, escanear redes WiFi cercanas, seleccionar una red objetivo, lanzar ataques de autenticación falsa para capturar paquetes de datos, y luego usar esos datos para crackear las contraseñas de las redes seleccionadas
O documento descreve o que é ser um web designer, as características e habilidades necessárias para a profissão, como criatividade e conhecimento de tecnologia. Também explica as principais atividades de um web designer, como criar layouts funcionais e gerenciar atualizações de sites, e suas áreas de atuação, como designer de interface e multimídia. Por fim, discute o mercado de trabalho em expansão para web designers.
This very short document appears to be a test containing the word "Test" repeated multiple times. It was authored by Robert but does not contain much substantive information beyond demonstrating the author's name and the purpose of testing something.
Este documento discute varios aspectos clave de la enseñanza. Define la enseñanza como una práctica social regulada que implica la transmisión intencional de contenidos por parte del docente. Explora las características particulares de la acción docente, como ser un mediador entre los estudiantes y el conocimiento. También analiza estrategias para la integración de contenidos, como relacionarlos desde la perspectiva del conocimiento para proveer significatividad a los estudiantes. Finalmente, examina el uso de la narración y preguntas de diferentes
Sistemas de gestión de la seguridad y salud en el trabajoIvan Villamizar
Este documento presenta el Sistema de Garantía de Calidad de Salud Ocupacional y Riesgos Profesionales en Colombia. Describe el marco de referencia, marco jurídico, definición, componentes y estándares mínimos del sistema. Explica que el sistema busca generar, mantener y promover la calidad de los servicios de salud ocupacional a través de estándares mínimos obligatorios, auditorías de mejoramiento continuo y un sistema único de acreditación para las entidades prestadoras de servicios.
Este discurso de Cantinflas ante las Naciones Unidas resume en tres ideas principales:
1. Critica tanto a los "Verdes" (Estados Unidos y aliados) como a los "Colorados" (países comunistas) por tratar de imponer sus sistemas políticos y económicos en otros países por la fuerza en lugar de respetar su soberanía.
2. Pide a los países poderosos que ayuden a los países más débiles a través de la cooperación y el respeto mutuo en lugar de préstamos o alianzas militares, compart
The audit cycle performance consists of planning, preliminary survey, understanding the entity, identifying key areas and objectives, determining audit criteria, collecting evidence, generating working papers, and preparing audit findings. The initial stages involve obtaining general information on the company and identifying important areas to focus on. Later stages are testing evidence, documenting results, and communicating findings to the audited entity in a clear and understandable manner.
There is increasing competition and commoditization in the information security marketplace.
For better or worse, pure technical knowledge and experience is not enough. InfoSec companies must go out of their way to demonstrate and communicate their value to potential clients. This includes optimizing and standardizing internal processes and client-facing communications. This article (the first in a series) discusses the problems facing InfoSec companies and some strategies for standing out from the crowd.
Here are the key points I would reflect on from this case:
- Maintaining integrity and independence is important as an auditor, even when under budget pressure. Falsifying time spent on audit procedures violates accounting standards and ethics.
- Learning to manage expectations and communicate issues with the engagement team is an important skill. Being transparent about delays outside of my control allows for informed decision making.
- Understanding motivations and pressures at different levels (e.g. manager's promotion review) provides context, but cannot justify compromising audit quality or standards.
- Gaining experience and trusting my own judgment, while also seeking advice from more experienced team members. Knowing when "stuff happens all the time" is acceptable versus a red
Write Papers For Money. Writing Papers For Money Online. 2022-10-15Sarah Jimenez
This document provides instructions for writing papers for money online by using the website HelpWriting.net. It outlines a 5-step process: 1) Create an account with valid email and password, 2) Complete a 10-minute order form providing instructions, sources, and deadline, 3) Review bids from writers and choose one based on qualifications, 4) Review the completed paper and authorize payment if satisfied, 5) Request revisions until fully satisfied, with the option of a full refund for plagiarized work. The goal is to ensure customer satisfaction and provide original, high-quality content.
Agency specialized in Customer Experience measurement & management. This document summaries our research capabilities: how we work and what makes us different. Look beyond your current research.
This document provides instructions for requesting an assignment writing service from HelpWriting.net. It outlines a 5-step process: 1) Create an account, 2) Complete an order form providing instructions, sources, and deadline, 3) Review bids from writers and select one, 4) Review the completed paper and authorize payment, 5) Request revisions until satisfied. It emphasizes that original, high-quality content is guaranteed, with refunds offered for plagiarized work. Customers can request revisions to ensure their needs are fully met.
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The document provides instructions for using a writing service called HelpWriting.net. It outlines a 5-step process: 1) Create an account with a password and email. 2) Complete a 10-minute order form providing instructions, sources, and deadline. 3) Review bids from writers and choose one based on qualifications. 4) Review the completed paper and authorize payment if satisfied. 5) Request revisions to ensure satisfaction, and the company offers refunds for plagiarized work.
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Tools and Techniques for Quality ManagementNazrul Islam
The tools and techniques most commonly used in Quality management and process improvement are: Cause and effect diagram. Control Charts. Histogram. Pareto Charts.
Medieval Europe History Essay. Online assignment writing service.Heather Brown
The document provides instructions for creating an account and submitting an assignment request on the HelpWriting.net site, including completing an order form, choosing a writer based on their qualifications and reviews, and reviewing and authorizing payment for the completed assignment. It also notes that revisions are allowed and guarantees original, high-quality content or a full refund.
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The passage discusses the 2008 global economic crisis and its impacts. It began as a financial crisis in the US due to losses in the banking sector, but spread globally due to economic interlinkages. Key impacts included weakened economic activity, rising unemployment, reduced wages and benefits. Government responses included interest rate cuts, bank bailouts, and job creation programs, but recovery was slow. The crisis had significant social and economic effects around the world through slow growth, job losses, and reduced household income.
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The QA Corporate Compliance Corner newsletter highlights changes within the QA department and agency programs. The QA department merged their review teams so all staff review all programs, using a more person-centered approach with observations and interviews. Proper documentation is important for quality of care, compliance, and reimbursement. The Justice Center process for incidents can be intimidating, but the QA department provides a guide to help understand the process. Self-advocacy among individuals served by the agency is growing, with some becoming lobbyists to affect positive change for others.
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The document reports on a review of complaints handling procedures across a company's short tail claims department. It finds that while external reporting is usually efficient, internal reporting is less so due to a lack of writing guidelines and training. It provides recommendations to consolidate complaints procedures into one system module, standardize letters, address issues with automated flagging and compliance training tracking, and provide additional training to address staff confusion over complaints processes. Chopping extraneous words and changing structures can make internal documents 40% more efficient while maintaining essential information and meaning.
Similar to PKF S&S_Newsletter Issue No 5-2013 (20)
Why should internal reporting be as efficiently written as external reporting?
PKF S&S_Newsletter Issue No 5-2013
1. only selecting countable
items and leaving all
items which are to be
weighed or measured)
These reports are very useful
to understand what common
errors happen in audits and
how to guard against these in
audits.
Let us see one more example:
This one is an example on
how to check ‘completeness’
assertion.
The Firm performed physical
counts of certain inventory
after the end of the year.
The Firm, however, failed to
(a) determine that any move-
ment of inventory that oc-
curred during the Firm's
physical counts was taken
into account, and
(b) test the accuracy and
completeness of the data it
used to reconcile its inven-
tory counts to the issuer's
year-end inventory.
In addition, for a significant
portion of the inventory sub-
ject to this testing, the Firm
selected items for testing
only from the issuer's inven-
tory system, which addresses
inventory existence, and did
not also select from the in-
ventory physically on hand,
Expectations for an effec-
tive audit:
What is expected in audits?
How to do effective audits?
If you wish to know, one way
to know is to look at PCAOB
(USA) reports on audit firms,
which are in public domain
now.
I am producing a sample
from one of the recent reports
of PCAOB on a Big 4 firm.
The first one is on checking
effectiveness of controls:
The Firm's procedures to
test the effectiveness of
the issuer's controls over
the existence of this in-
ventory were insuffi-
cient.
Specifically, the Firm
identified and tested one
control relating to the
issuer's reconciliation of
its cycle-count results to
the inventory system and
concluded that the con-
trols over the cycle-count
procedures were effec-
tive.
The Firm, however,
failed to identify and test
any controls regarding
whether the issuer's cycle
-count procedures were
sufficiently reliable, such
as controls that would
address whether all items
were counted, the counts
occurred as frequently as
planned, and the counts
were sufficiently precise.
So you can learn from this
that:
1. We need to document
entity’s own controls
2. Then we need to test if
they are working and be
able to show evidence
we have checked.
3. The above refers to in-
ventory verification con-
trols.
4. The control said com-
pany had cycle-count
procedures.
5. What the auditor has to
do is to test:
A. Whether the procedures
are properly laid down?
B. Are they proper? (as we
say in CARO
C. What is the cycle?
D. Is it sufficient
E. Whether the program
ensures all material items
are covered (say in a
year
F. Whether items as
planned for each cycle
have been so covered as
per plan.
G. Whether the PV was
precise? (The Company
should not for instance
From the Editor’s Desk...
I N S I D E T H I S
I S S U E :
C O N F I D E N T I A L
A N D F O R
P R I V A T E U S E O F
P K F S & S A N D M C R
S T A F F O N L Y
Voice Of ChangeP K F S R I D H A R & S A N T H A N A MI S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
All about Quality 3
CA to CISA 5
Proudly S&S 8
Not just 15CB 9
CFO Speaks 11
Birthday Bash 13
BAT 14
Puzzle Corner 15
All views are of the
authors and not of
the firm.
2. which would address the completeness of recorded inventory.
What do we learn here?
If the assertion you are checking is ‘completeness’ –this means that we should check reverse popula-
tion.
Which means not checking what is already in inventory in books- but checking physical items to see if
they have been included.
You can learn a lot on ‘how to audit?’ -if you read the PCAOB reports
I recommend that you all do this.
P A G E 2I S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
CA S Ramakrishnan
3. P A G E 3
Dear Associates
A thing of the quality is joyful forever. We require quality and reluctantly make compro-
mises on matters where we are the recipient of services or consumers of goods. We always
understand quality as matching the expectations of the requirement of a person consuming
the goods of services.
Without differing, I would like to share one more perspective that I had come across in
regard to quality.
Long before, I chanced to read an article on the quality in an in-house magazine of Ther-
max by Mr. Rohington Agha. Those where the times of controlled economy and prepon-
derance of exports to Soviet Union (undivided as it was then). Order books of companies
used to be full. For instance one had to book for Scooter and wait for years for delivery.
The article opens up referring to a situation in which Thermax had met the delivery sched-
ules in regard to an export order from a customer in Soviet Union. The article congratulates
the organization and the people involved for meeting the deadlines for the dispatch of the
goods. The message was relevant in view of the fact that the customers in Soviet Union are
extremely finicky about timelines.
The author wonders as to why the same focus was not being given to Indian customers.
The customer relies upon the supplier for his operations and it is the duty of the supplier to
meet the deadlines . Indian customers feels often let down under monopolistic situations
due to delays in execution of orders
He then quotes a letter from a customer complaining about the lack of sensitivity of the
organization to his requirement in that mails are not responded to, deadlines were missed
etc. One thing that followed the narration of the content of the letter struck me. The author
says ` Mercifully such instances are not many; but each and every time a complaint like the
one arrive, I die a little’.
The author then quotes the response from a person, who was interviewed by Thermax for
a position in the company; the candidate was very well taken care of without diluting the
quality of the interview and had written to the company that he felt that Thermax is a com-
pany that cares. And then it dawns upon the author that quality is care.
If we understand the definition of the quality as care, we would be empathetic to the re-
quirements of the customers, reviewers and the leaders at the same time maintaining our
professional standards. The culture of caring will builds into one the reflex for meeting the
requirements/ expectations of people whom we service.
It would be therefore necessary that all of us visualize the requirements of the ultimate user
of the services and orient ourselves to fulfilling the same. Professional disagreements po-
litely articulated are welcome (Difference of opinion in a community is token of divine
mercy).
Partner speaks… About Quality
V O I C E O F C H A N G E
4. One of the former article clerks had an occasion to meet with MNC firm in Bangalore for an interview.
The moment they came to know that he was from PKF S&S, the spontaneous reaction from the panel was
that they need not have to worry about the quality of the candidate, as in PKF S&S, they would have re-
ceived all-round training.
I advise you to believe that you are not understudies but Chartered Accountants and strive to bring the
quality and ownership expected of a CA in your work. ( I have come across persons who have surprised
me – pleasantly- with their grasp and commitment).
The weekly training sessions are going to be more frequent with better ambience and could provide more
opportunities to you to showcase and hone your professional talents.
Wishing you all the very best.
P A G E 4I S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
Quality means
doing it right
when no one is
looking.
CA Hariharan.S
hari@pkfindia.in
5. P A G E 5
What is information security? Why information security?
A century ago, our grandfather companies lived on just the basic necessities of running a
business. Papers, books, ink and most importantly “Humans”. There were no complicated
equipment’s, hardware or software to run the business for them. All that the auditors had to
do was, ask for the “dust covered” books of accounts, tick off a couple of vouchers, check
postings and castings, discuss with the client and issue the report.
Living in the era of information technology, I personally wonder how our elders managed
to report quality issues without the aid of computers and more importantly “exception”
reports! When I sit and ponder, I realize that these days we depend on technology because
the surrounding circumstances warrant it.
Three or four decades ago, in the common parlance used in the technological world, with
the advent of computers, auditors had to necessarily shift from traditional auditing to “audit
through the computer”.
Today, technology has further advanced so much that the most sensitive and confidential
transactions happen through the systems. Information system has a wider connotation now
than what it had decades ago. Data is inputted into, processed through and outputted from
the system. Data and information is stored in the system. Data is transmitted through net-
works. At every level, technology is involved. We have substantially moved to a paperless
environment. Requests, approvals, payments.. Everything is through the systems.
This reiterates the importance of information security. Information security analysts are
information technology (IT) specialists who are accountable for safeguarding all data and
communications that are stored and shared in network systems. In the financial industry,
for example, information security analysts might continually upgrade firewalls that pro-
hibit superfluous access to sensitive business data and might perform defenselessness tests
to assess the effectiveness of security measures. An information systems auditor, on the
other hand, tests and assures that all the required physical and logical access controls are in
place to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data.
From CA to CISA...
V O I C E O F C H A N G E
6. P A G E 6
What are the courses available?
There are a variety of courses offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association, USA:
CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)
CISM (Certified Information Security Manager)
CGEIT (Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT)
CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control)
CISA:
Certified Information Systems Auditor is a globally recognized designation. Being CISA-certified showcases your audit
experience, skills and knowledge, and demonstrates you are capable to manage vulnerabilities, ensure compliance and
institute controls within the enterprise.
Course Structure:
CISA covers the following domains:
Domain 1—The Process of Auditing Information Systems (14%)
Domain 2—Governance and Management of IT (14%)
Domain 3—Information Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation (19%)
Domain 4—Information Systems Operations, Maintenance and Support (23%)
Domain 5—Protection of Information Assets (30%)
The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions to be answered within 4 hours. The scoring is done on a scaled ba-
sis. A scaled score is a conversion of a candidate's raw score on an exam to a common scale. ISACA uses and reports
scores on a common scale from 200 to 800. A candidate must receive a score of 450 or higher to pass the exam.
Registration:
Registration can be done online at http://www.isaca.org/Certification/CISA-Certified-Information-Systems-Auditor/
Register-for-the-Exam/Pages/default.aspx
Preparation:
The ISACA provides a lot of study materials and reference materials to aid preparation for the exams. These materials
are available for purchase online. ISACA also publishes Review Questions, Answers and Explanations manual which
contain mock questions.
These are available in a variety of languages at http://www.isaca.org/Certification/CISA-Certified-Information-Systems-
Auditor/Prepare-for-the-Exam/Study-Materials/Pages/default.aspx
Online domain wise E-learning classes are available at http://www.isaca.org/Education/Training/exam-review-courses/
Pages/CISA-Online-Review-Course.aspx
Webinars and virtual conferences also happen from time to time which will help in enhancing our knowledge.
The ISACA Chennai chapter holds seminars, conferences and review classes from time to time. They can be contacted
at the following address:
7. Information Systems Audit and Control Association
#15 Ground Floor,
Luz Golden Enclave,
(TNHB Complex Next to Kamadhenu Theatre),
180/4 Luz Church Road ,
Mylapore,
Chennai 600004.
Ph. 044 24984331.
http://www.isaca-chennai.org/isaca/index.jsp
When and where do the exams happen?
Exams are held thrice a year – June, September and December. Centers are available across India.
Certification:
Once a candidate clears the examination, he/she has to apply to the ISACA for a certification. A minimum of five years
of experience is required to obtain the certification.
Work experience must be gained within the ten year period preceding the application date for certification or within
five years from the date of initially passing the exam.
Substitutions and waivers of such experience, to a maximum of 3 years, may be obtained as follows:
A maximum of one year of information systems OR one year of non-IS auditing experience can be substituted for
one year of information systems auditing, control, or security experience;
60 to 120 completed university semester credit hours (the equivalent of a two-year or four-year degree), not lim-
ited by the ten year preceding restriction, can be substituted for one or two years, respectively, of information sys-
tems auditing, control or security experience. Even if multiple degrees have been earned, a maximum of 2 years
can be claimed.
A bachelor’s or master’s degree from a university that enforces the ISACA sponsored Model Curricula can be
substituted for one year of information systems auditing, control or security experience. To view a list of these
schools, please visit www.isaca.org/modeluniversities. This option cannot be used if three years of experience sub-
stitution and educational waiver have already been claimed; and
A master’s degree in information security or information technology from an accredited university can be substi-
tuted for one year of experience.
Exception:
Two years as a full-time university instructor in a related field (e.g.; computer science, accounting, information systems
auditing) can be substituted for every one year of information systems auditing, control or security experience.
As an example, at a minimum (assuming a two-year waiver of experience by substituting 120 university credits) an
applicant must have three years of actual work experience. This experience can be completed by:
three years information systems audit, control, or security experience; OR
two years information systems audit, control, or security experience and one full year non-IS audit or infor-
mation systems experience or two years as a full-time university instructor.
The application for certification can be downloaded from http://www.isaca.org/Certification/CISA-Certified-
Information-Systems-Auditor/Apply-for-Certification/Pages/default.aspx
The Future
Technology is never going to see the downside in the future. We are going to see more and more advanced tech-
nology being used in various fields. Hence, the need for information systems auditors is only going to
increase. This course is definitely an added asset.
P A G E 7I S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
CA Janani Vijayakumar
janani@pkfindia.in
8. P A G E 8
… and I remember the day walking into S&S’s office sometime in Apr’98 and meeting
Mr. Ramki for my
first ever job-interview (for apprenticeship). During the course of our hour long conversa-
tion he vociferously mentioned “Sriram, when you complete your articles, qualify and head
out to begin your corporate career, people will usually ask if you completed your articles
from a Big-6 firm. You should proudly say No, I did my articles from S&S.”
Those words were simple yet profound and continue to ring a bell in my ears whenever I
think of S&S or have the opportunity to speak about my initial years of training at the firm.
The foundations that were laid in accounting, auditing, company law and taxation during
my training has held me high and in good stead over the years and I can’t thank the firm
and its partners enough. The mantra “S&S or Big-6” was constantly and repeatedly ham-
mered into our heads to the point that it became our guiding spirit at the firm.
I feel happy to have been groomed by excellent and meticulous professionals like
Mr.Ramki, Narsi, TVB, Mr. Kots and audit seniors like Barathan, Srisailam, Parul Negi –
to mention a few – who have gone beyond their call of duty to help me gain a thorough
understanding of both concepts and its application thereby enabling me to create both cli-
ent impact and practice impact – time and again!
I must confess, I have personally benefited from Mr. SK’s rigorous audit review that
helped me gain a thorough understanding of how all the pieces in the audit jig-saw puzzle
(schedules, notes, statutory sections, caveats et al) fall in place into one single document
(annual report / audit report) that is published and presented to shareholders and other rele-
vant stakeholders.
To this date, I continue to cherish my association with S&S and try to be in touch with its
alumni and associates, past and present. I wish the firm, its associates and partners a very
bright and prosperous future.
Yours in professional fellowship,
Sriram Kannan
Proudly S&S...
V O I C E O F C H A N G E
CA SRIRAM
KANNAN
9. P A G E 9
Most of the time, Form 15CB certification, under section 195 of the Income Tax Act 1961,
is looked upon as an easy task.
On the contrary, often, it offers an opportunity to enrich our knowledge base.
Facts:
1. There are four companies viz., Company A (Tax Resident (TR) of India), Company B
(TR of Bahamas), Company C (TR of USA), Company D (TR of Cyprus) & Company
E (Germany).
2. Companies B, C & D being non-residents having PAN in India.
3. Companies B, C, D & E provides Information Technology services, project manage-
ment and software development to Company A by sending a technician.
4. Salary to the technicians was borne by the respective companies and Company A
would in turn reimburse the expenditure incurred to the non-resident companies.
5. Companies B, C, D & E did not carry its business through a Permanent Establish-
ment in India.
Judicial Precedence:
Though we were sure of such payments getting covered under the ambit of Section 9 (1)
(vii) of the Income Tax Act 1961 (the Act). We also came across a decision rendered by
the Authority of Advance Ruling in the case of AT & S India Private Limited, which fur-
ther affirmed our view on the taxability.
Hence, such payment shall be taxable at the rate of 25% as prescribed under section 115A
of the Act.
The Tangle!!
As the payments are taxable, it’s our turn to look at the relevant country’s tax treaty for any
benefits. When we analyzed the relevant provisions of the treaties, we were surprised to
learn as to how the same payment got taxed differently when paid to different countries.
Let’s take Indo-US treaty first!
1. Fee for included (technical) service shall be taxable in India, if such payment make
available technical knowledge, experience, skill, know-how, or processes, or consist of
the development and transfer of a technical plan or technical design.
2. This makes clear unless the technician makes the technical knowledge available in
India such payment shall not be taxable in India.
3. Hence, the payment made to Company C is not taxable in India.
Indo-Cyprus Treaty
1. Though Indo-Cyprus treaty also has a ‘make available’ clause which makes the pay-
ment not taxable unless knowledge is made available.
2. However, unlike Indo-USA treaty, it has got one more Article on Technical Fees
which brings the said payment under technical fees’ purview and consequently shall
be taxable at the rate of 10% (as per treaty).
Indo-German treaty
Unlike the aforesaid two treaties, Indo-Germany does not have a ‘make available’ clause
and consequently taxed at the rate of 10% (as per treaty).
Form 15CB...not so easy after all!
V O I C E O F C H A N G E
10. Last but not the least - Bahamas!
There is no Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement entered between India and Bahamas. Therefore, rates as per the
Act (25%) would apply for deducting tax at source.
This does not stop here!!!
The Pandora’s Box – Sec 206AA
All the above analyses were carried on the assumption that the non-resident companies have a valid PAN in India. In
the absence of PAN, provisions of Sec 206AA need to be complied with.
A tabular presentation of the applicable tax rates in the absence of PAN is as follows,
This makes checking the relevant treaty more important to determine the taxability of the payment to non-residents. A
payment may be initially taxed by the Act and DTAA may provide some illusionary relief which may finally get hin-
dered by section 206AA!!!
P A G E 1 0I S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
Country Rate as per Income
Tax Act, 1961
X
Rate as per DTAA
Y
20%
Z
Applicable Rate of
TDS – Higher of
X, Y & Z
USA Does not apply as payment is not taxable as per DTAA NIL
Cyprus 25% 10% 20% 25%
Germany 25% 10% 20% 25%
Bahamas 25% No DTAA entered 20% 25%
Sankara Narayanan L
taxation@pkfindia.in
11. P A G E 1 1
“A strong CFO
enhances the
confidence of
the stakeholders,
by his integrity
and best ethical
practices.”
The dynamics of the business environment has substantially changed the role of a CFO in
any organization.
Unlike the olden days, the CFO’s scope of work has now changed from that of a
“policeman” and a mere “regulator” to a “facilitator of business”. While the CFO should
ensure strict compliance of all the rules and regulations and legal issues, he should be flexi-
ble in certain deserving cases, by relaxing or deferring the internal compliances, to ensure
that the business does not get affected. However, he should ensure that the compliances
are taken care subsequently, without any violation of the rules and regulations.
This quality of being rational to facilitate generation of business would be well appreciated
at this juncture, when there is an overall downturn in the economy and the companies are
already struggling to make both ends meet.
Playing the role of being a facilitator and at the same time adhering to the legal and com-
pliances issues could be quite contradicting with each other and a proper balance need to
be maintained to ensure due justice to both the roles. This does not mean that to take for-
ward the business, the compliance issues will have to be flouted. A wee bit of flexibility in
approach is required considering the practicality of doing business in India.
In fact there are umpteen big companies who resort to the services of the CFO to take up
the role of a CEO as well, in times of turbulent business environment and most of them
result them into success stories.
It is worthwhile to list out and assess the traits required to mature to be a well admired
CFO. An attempt to achieve these trails:-
A good CFO is vital for the success of any organization. He should not only be strong
in numbers but also have in-depth understanding of the intricacies of the business and
play a major role in shaping the strategy and operational focus of the Company.
A strong CFO enhances the confidence of the stakeholders, by his integrity and best
ethical practices. He should not compromise on transparency at any point of time.
Even if the business is doing poorly due to uncontrollable reasons, a straight shooter
CFO, can retain his credibility amongst the stakeholders. They are looked upon as the
“Trustees” to enhance shareholders’ value.
CFO should have the quality to acknowledge the obvious facts, instead of trying to
beat around the bush. He should be able to influence the Board and should be the stra-
tegic partner and advisor to the CEO and concentrate on the long term strategies.
Crucial amongst the responsibilities of the CFO are financial planning, risk manage-
ment and liquidity back-up, at all times, by accurate foresight.
CFO Speaks...
V O I C E O F C H A N G E
A.R.Subramanian
CFO of a leading
manufacturing company
12. The CFO should ensure good Corporate Governance, to meet stakeholders’ aspirations and societal expectations.
The CFO should take bold decisions at the right time. The golden words of Mr. Ratan Tata are quoted below:-
“I don’t believe in taking right decisions. I take decisions and make them right. So always believe in your
ability and efforts”.
In these highly volatile macro-economic conditions, the CFO should analyze the Company’s financial strengths
and weaknesses and suggest the best ways and means for improvement.
The CFO should be transparent and should make maximum appropriate disclosures without jeopardizing the Com-
pany's strategic interests. Transparency enhances accountability.
In addition to all the above traits, good IT knowledge will be an excellent contribution to successfully realize the
dreams of an organization.
P A G E 1 2I S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
13. P A G E 1 3I S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
Ramki Sir’s 60th B’day Bash!!
14. Kudos to the following team members for their dedication and great work in the year end audit of a shipping company.
1. Mayank Agarwal
2. Rishi Sanganeria
3. Mohd. Shoeb
4. Shyam Dhanak
5. Prateek Bafna
6. Pranav Jain
7. Arpit Jain
P A G E 1 4I S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
BAT Galore!!
15. Add together each of the defined words to get a whole new word.
Example: to shout + what you say when you feel pain = a color = yellow.
1) A light brown colour + to leave = a dance.
2) A store's announcement + a type of women's clothing = a building's location.
3) A vehicle + an animal pal = a floor covering.
4) The ocean + a father's boy = part of the year.
5) Another name for dad + a yellow veggie = a white fluffy snack.
Last Weeks Winners:
1. Shreyansh Singhvi (iamshrey@gmail.com)
2. Amrita Ranganathan (amrita.ranganathan30@gmail.com)
3. Bhuvana Nataraj (nbhuvana92@gmail.com)
4. Musham Panchakshar (cool.panchakshar@gmail.com)
5. Karthik Veeramani (karthik.pkf@gmail.com)
6. Dinesh Choudhary (dineshm1990@gmail.com)
7. H Balajee Viswanath (balajee.sands@icloud.com)
8. Shravanthika Lakshmi (shravanthika.sands@gmail.com)
9. Haritha Somasundaram (haritha3006@gmail.com)
10. Prasanth Udayakumar (uprasanth@ymail.com)
11. Niranjana Mohan (niranjana_10692@yahoo.in)
Fruit Vendor:
1. Divya Shekar (divyashekar26@gmail.com)
2. Shantamani Lamichhane (sm.lamichhane@gmail.com)
3. Vignesh Subramanian (vignesh389@yahoo.in)
4. Sashank Paudel (sashank.pkf@gmail.com)
5. Surya Bogati (suryabogati69@gmail.com)
6. Venkat Raman (cavenkat1506@gmail.com)
7. Sajeer (sajeerca14@gmail.com)
8. Jagdeep Jasrotia (jagdeep.jasrotia@gmail.com )
Special Mention:
1. T V Balasubramanian (tvbalu@pkfindia.in)
2. Dhiraj (dhiraj@pkfindia.in)
Disclaimer:
The first 20 correct replies will be awarded a comp-off. Decision of Editorial Committee is final. The Timing for receipt of
Entry will determined based on the time of receipt of mail. Answers will be published through staff of sands and winners will
be announced in the next issue.
P A G E 1 5I S S U E 5 , 2 0 1 3
Puzzle corner…
Solve the puzzle and win a comp-off!
16. Charanya Sathyamoorthy
Vinayasree V.P.
Priyanka Pattabiraman
Shreyes Venkatesh
Chief Editor
S. Ramakrishnan
The Team
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