Question

Describe five crucial components of the COSO Framework: Internal Environment (Control Environment), Risk Assessment, Control Activities, Information and Communication, and Monitoring. Explain what is included in the component and how that component impacts the rest of the internal control system (i.e., the other four components).

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Answer 1

The COSO model defines internal control as “a process, effected by an entity’s board of directors, management and other personnel, designed to provide reasonable assurance of the achievement of objectives in the following categories:

• Effectiveness and efficiency of operations

• Reliability of financial reporting

• Compliance with applicable laws and regulations”

In an “effective” internal control system, the following five components work to support the achievement of an entity’s mission, strategies and related business objectives.

Control Environment

• Integrity and Ethical Values

• Commitment to Competence

• Board of Directors and Audit Committee

• Management’s Philosophy and Operating Style

• Organizational Structure

• Assignment of Authority and Responsibility

• Human Resource Policies and Procedures

Risk Assessment

• Company-wide Objectives

• Process-level Objectives

• Risk Identification and Analysis

• Managing Change

Control Activities

• Policies and Procedures

• Security (Application and Network)

• Application Change Management

• Business Continuity / Backups

• Outsourcing

Information and Communication

• Quality of Information

• Effectiveness of Communication

Monitoring

• On-going Monitoring

• Separate Evaluations

• Reporting Deficiencies

These components work to establish the foundation for sound internal control within the company through directed leadership, shared values and a culture that emphasizes accountability for control. The various risks facing the company are identified and assessed routinely at all levels and within all functions in the organization. Control activities and other mechanisms are proactively designed to address and mitigate the significant risks. Information critical to identifying risks and meeting business objectives is communicated through established channels up, down and across the company. The entire system of internal control is monitored continuously and problems are addressed timely.