TechLab studies multiple themes centered on the impact of technology on the auditing profession. Research is conducted by its own staff and in collaboration with students and industry partners.
TechLab publications and events provide in-depth insights and practical recommendations to better equip auditors to evaluate technological solutions and to apply technology within audit processes. TechLab aims to identify risks that may previously have been overlooked and to contribute to more effective audit teams. In doing so, it supports the delivery of higher-quality audits that create additional value for all stakeholders.
ESG‑Hub Edition 2025
“The Forgotten Pillar of ESG – Why It Matters More Now” is an opinion paper from the ESG‑Hub within the ITACA Master’s programme at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. The paper highlights the growing importance of the social dimension of ESG and its increasing relevance for IT professionals. Download the paper here.
Techlab Edition 2022
“Applying Machine Learning to Audit Techniques: Towards (Near) Real‑Time Assurance” is a short report of a joint study by BDO Digital and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Download the paper here.
TechLab Edition 2022
“Pooled audits op public clouddiensten: Assurance op naleving van de EBA-richtlijnen” is a joint study with Rabobank on how pooled, risk‑based audits can help financial institutions obtain demonstrable assurance over public cloud services to meet EBA outsourcing requirements. It concludes pooled audits provide more specific, actionable assurance than generic CSP certificates or SOC reports, while emphasizing the need for clear governance, skilled auditors and modern data‑driven techniques.
Feedback and contact
We welcome suggestions and ideas to help shape TechLab’s work. Please send feedback to: edp.sbe@vu.nl.