All of the following should be included in the Audit Scope Statement except:

The Audit Scope Statement is a vital document that outlines the extent and focus of an audit process. It specifies what will be examined, the objectives of the audit, and the limitations of the review. In this context, the correct answer highlights that "Cost" is not typically included in the Audit Scope Statement.

The primary focus of the Audit Scope Statement is to define the specific deliverables, the reasons for conducting the audit, and the classification of the items or processes being audited. Deliverables refer to the expected outcomes of the audit, providing clarity on what the auditors aim to produce or achieve through their work. Classification allows auditors to categorize various components of the audit to ensure that the scope is appropriately defined, while the reason provides context for why the audit is taking place, which is essential for aligning the audit objectives with organizational needs.

Cost considerations, while important in project management and resource allocation, are usually addressed separately from the scope of the audit itself. The Audit Scope Statement is more concerned with what will be audited and why, rather than the financial implications of the audit process. Therefore, omitting "Cost" from the Audit Scope Statement maintains a clear focus on the audit's purpose and parameters.