CPAs have always been processing information to enlighten an audience, but the raw material we use to achieve our goals has changed for good: gone is the Paper Era. We now seek information in electronic format, which offers us new ways to think about our work. This session will introduce Data & Analytics in the context of Fraud Risk Management, and aims at providing a framework, a mindset and some data-driven techniques to maximize the insights we extract from financial information. Along the way, we’ll discuss common anomalies which are likely to trigger interesting discussions – and perhaps some clues linked to possible cases of fraud.

By the end of this course, participants should be able to: 

• Describe core data concepts (structures, field types, keys) and relate them to accounting cycles and fraud-risk use cases. 
• Plan and scope a data-driven project (problem definition, hypotheses, data availability) and obtain “the right data in the right format.” 
• Execute foundational data operations (join, append, summarize, filter/sort) and apply single-layer vs. multi-layer analyses to procurement, payroll, expenses, and journal entries. 
• Anticipate and mitigate common pitfalls in data work (cut-offs, quality/validation issues) using repeatable practices. 
• Present results effectively with visualization and storytelling principles tailored to executives and boards.  

Topics include: 

• Why now: the CPA role in data and fraud-risk management; efficiency and accessibility drivers. 
• Data foundations: structured data types, table relationships, and links to accounting cycles. 
• Data extraction: scoping questions, request practices, cut-off considerations, and validation/quality checks. 
• Analytics techniques: categorization, layering analyses, and targeted tests for procurement, payroll, expenses, and journal entries. 
• Real-life mini-cases: end-to-end approach illustrated for two cycles. 
• Visualization & storytelling: what not to do, best-practice chart types, and narrative framing.  

Live webinars have varying levels of expected interaction, with some requiring microphone and camera capabilities to support a proper learning experience – please email pdreg@bccpa.ca if you have concerns. 

In general, we encourage participants to have their cameras turned on to enhance their virtual learning experience. This practice promotes a stronger connection with the instructor and fellow participants, and fosters improved communication and collaboration.

Live Webinar FAQs can be found here.  

Registration terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy can be found here. If you require further assistance, please contact the PD Department.