CaseWare IDEA vs. SAI360

One example of specific scenario in [CaseWare] IDEA is the ability to run samples separately and then based off of the results, compare and contrast the values recorded and easily discern if there are any variables or discrepancies within the data itself. Also, we can test journal entries with certain parameters to check the audit for any issues that may arise pertaining to the criteria. By testing, we are able to make sure the data is accurate and sufficient.

Incentivized

The usage of ROAM, as well as the integration of external programmes through API and import functions, has almost reduced duplication of work. One thing to keep in mind is that your use cases must be very clear. There are a lot of SAI solutions, and their titles don't always correspond to what they actually perform.

Incentivized

• Easy to understand and easy to use.
• Can use on large quantities of data and quickly analyze them.
• Uses logic that can be followed if one is an auditor. I, for example, could understand the logic in a number of samples, i.e how the number of samples thrown changes when risk changes from low to moderate in proportion taking in consideration the materiality.
• Other audit firms are using 2 software for the process that IDEA alone can do. So IDEA has a definite advantage here.
• Customizable by the company.

• Customized unified design platform
• Modules that fit your organization
• Low technology involvement with information department.
• Built on foundational platforms some bidirectional in the ERM framework with TPRM contracts
• Single sign-on web-based applications

Incentivized

• Bit of a learning curve for the advanced features as a beginner.

Incentivized

• Reporting
• Legacy modules (i.e. tasks)
• Look and feel
• Intuitive UI

Overall it is a very versatile system that does help to keep our processes automated and secure. We are able to streamline our day to day activities.

Incentivized

I would rate it a 9 because I never really needed support on this but if I did, there was the necessary support given promptly.

I have used Microstart and would definitely vote for IDEA because IDEA combines what Microstart does with the help of one/more softwares. Where Microstart just gives a number of samples, IDEA selects the number of samples based on materiality, risk, and other factors. It selects those samples from the population leaving out line items that are invalid/ zero. I would prefer using IDEA any day.

Archer was very similar to SAI360 in cost and features. Has a more modern look and feel and more task functionality. The price point was very similar. Didn't choose them as our existing usage is in an On-Prem version and support from our in-house IT team was not able to be obtained. MetricStream was very modern looking with an intuitive UI. Appeared to have all the features with a number of additional bells and whistles. The price point was far above our budget and we could not get approval to move them to the RFP.

• We were able to save time by over 200 billable hours over our last busy season cycle
• We saved roughly 12% on costs compared to the last program we used.

Incentivized

• The system is costly for the initial setup
• Does help to mitigate risk and keep the vendors and internal departments from becoming non-compliant.
• One license for all users
• Easy to manage employee's security access

Incentivized