Final answer:
In the context of business and financial management, independent checks on performance include activities such as supervisor reviews but not tasks typically done by individuals already involved in the process, such as preparing a trial balance report.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking about independent checks on performance in a business context. Independent checks are vital control measures used in accounting and financial management to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial information. Not all activities listed in the question are considered independent checks, so let's examine each option:
- Data input validation checks are controls that ensure the data entered into a system is correct and reasonable. These checks prevent errors at the point of entry and would be considered an independent check.
- Reconciling hash totals involves comparing sets of data to ensure they match up after being transferred from one system to another, which is another form of independent verification.
- Preparing a trial balance report is a procedure performed to ensure that debits equal credits after all entries are posted; however, this is not inherently an independent check as it can be done by someone involved in the data entry and may not involve a separate verification process.
- Supervisor review of journal entries and supporting documentation is an example of an independent check as it involves an external party (the supervisor) reviewing the work to ensure accuracy and compliance with policies and procedures.
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is that preparing a trial balance report is not considered an independent check on performance, as it may not require an independent verification process.