The Audit Connection Blog
GAAP and Cash Basis BARS manuals have been updated
The GAAP and Cash Basis BARS manuals have been updated and are available on our website at www.sao.wa.gov. ... CONTINUE READING
Performance audit findings on boards that conduct hearings on medical mistakes
Doctors sometimes make mistakes, and those mistakes can have life-or-death consequences for patients. Washington, like every other state, uses boards to license and regulate doctors and other healthcare providers, and can impose discipline on providers. The Washington State Auditor’s Office recently released a performance audit that looked at two of these boards. ... CONTINUE READING
The State Auditor's Office is partnering up to simplify your annual reporting requirements
The State Auditor’s Office and the Department of Transportation (WSDOT) have been working together supported by the County Road Administration Board and the Washington State Association of Counties to eliminate duplicate reporting. Currently, counties and cities in Washington State are required to submit an annual street report to WSDOT in June. ... CONTINUE READING
Performance audit highlights ways governments can reduce printing costs
Information can be transmitted, shared and read electronically around the world almost instantaneously. However, even as information has become increasingly digital, printed materials still play an important role in business and government operations. ... CONTINUE READING
We value local government feedback
The Budgeting, Accounting, and Reporting System (BARS) roundtables are underway in various locations all over the state. Discussion in these free three hour meetings presented by the State Auditor’s Office, includes many topics such as: Information on changes to the BARS manual, a preview of requirements for upcoming GASB standards, demonstration of the Financial Analysis Tool (FIT), and discussion of other valuable resources and trainings free to local governments. ... CONTINUE READING
Working together for workforce sustainability
The Washington Finance Officers Association (WFOA) has partnered with the Washington State Auditor’s Office for over 60 years to promote excellence in governmental finance through leadership, education and communication for the public benefit. ... CONTINUE READING
#CyberAware: Creating a strong password
Passwords are an everyday part of life whether you’re logging into your work, bank or social media accounts. You should do everything you can to protect your passwords and use different passwords for different accounts as described in an earlier tip regarding “password reuse.” ... CONTINUE READING
Survey shows states are concerned about cyber security, and making progress
The National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) conducts an annual survey of state Chief Information Officers to learn about the top policy and technology issues state governments face. ... CONTINUE READING
#CyberAware about Ransomware
Imagine your local government’s files and documents held for ransom. The risk is greater than you think, with the number of cyber-attacks by ransomware increasing rapidly. ... CONTINUE READING
#CyberAware Month Tip One: The dangers of password reuse
Have you ever used the same password for your work PC as your home banking account or private email? Do you sometimes open email attachments before checking that the message is from someone you know and trust? Maybe you need to be #CyberAware! ... CONTINUE READING