Financial Services
Clarity within complex transaction records.
The financial context
Large transaction datasets require attention to completeness, reconciliation and the meaning of individual entries. The analytical method should remain traceable to source information.
Questions that shape the review
Is the transaction population complete?
Check the coverage of the records and reconcile totals before relying on an exception or pattern.
What does an entry represent?
Understand the system, classifications and supporting evidence behind the data.
From information to an explanation
The work should connect the source material to the question being considered. Differences in definitions, periods or assumptions need to be made visible, together with the effect of any missing records.
The resulting explanation should distinguish what is documented, what depends on judgement and what remains uncertain. Its form and level of detail depend on the agreed purpose.
A question of suitability
The practice’s relevant experience, independence and the information available must be confirmed before any engagement. The purpose, scope and reporting requirements are agreed before analysis begins.
Discuss the financial question.
Start with the background, the relevant period and what you need to understand.
Discuss an enquiry