They look at the big picture, we look at the details. If we looked at the engine last year and it seems to be running fine, then we take apart the rudder this year. To do this, we must be creative in our audit planning and in how we work with audit clientele. If successful, we believe this will accent our audit coverage in a very positive way. Another major difference between internal and external auditors is their relationship to the organization being audited.
External auditors report to legislators and, indirectly, the members of the fund.
We generally report to management and the trustees. When I have a question about the best way to accomplish something, I just have to pick up the phone and call another member. If they haven't dealt with a similar question, then at least they know enough about my situation to offer good suggestions. Virginia is one the country's leaders in use of image technology, having installed it several years ago, whereas Wisconsin is just embarking on this major initiative. The Virginia experience, now capsulized in a report, will be invaluable to us.