In general and without regard to the preceding facts, discuss the nature of CAATs and list the various audit uses of such packages.

List and describe at least five ways CAATs can be used to assist in all aspects of the audit of inventory of Boos & Becker Inc. (For example, CAATs can be used to read the inventory master file and list items and parts with a high unit cost or total value. Such items can be included in the test counts to increase dollar coverage of the audit verification.) (Hint: Think of the normal audit procedures in gathering evidence on inventory when the client makes a periodic count; then think of how these could help in this particular client situation.)