Field notes · 18 June 2026
Per diem rules on paper, dropdowns in the application
Written travel policies and expense application categories drift apart. Here is how we evidence that gap during an audit.
Finance teams update per diem schedules in a PDF. Application administrators update a dropdown when someone remembers. Months later, auditors find both versions still in use.
Evidence that convinces policy owners
A gap matrix beats a lecture. List each policy clause, the current application setting, the date the setting last changed (if the log exists), and a recent claim that used the wrong band. Controllers respond to dated examples.
International trips amplify the drift
Regional roles flying out of Bangkok often straddle domestic and international rates. If the application still allows “domestic — other” for a Singapore overnight, the sample will show it quickly.
Fix before the next peak season
Configuration assessments are shorter than full audits for a reason. Closing the dropdown gap before Songkran travel or a sales kickoff prevents a messier findings letter later — and keeps the full financial audit focused on harder questions.