Spreadsheets and other elements of end user computing (EUC) provide accounting professionals with tools that deliver unmatched flexibility. This is exactly why they present such a major challenge for a SOX project team that needs to institute controls over end user computing. When viewed in the context of specific guidelines from COSO and Cobit on IT controls, spreadsheets are a major risk.

Quartus can advise and assist in programmes to replace spreadsheets (wherever possible) with formal reporting tools that incorporate change control and audit trails. This still leaves situations where spreadsheets cannot be replaced. Often involving activities of the highest category of risk - one off exercises, manual operation in critical activities such as forecasting, analysis of results, financial reporting, journal calculations.

In these areas Quartus implements procedures, controls and tools that allow spreadsheets to be safely used in compliance with the standards of COSO and Cobit.