Document Matching can cross-check Excel sample data against more than one type of source document in a single run, for example matching against both bank statements and invoices. This is useful when a test of detail requires evidence from multiple sources to confirm a sample.
This article covers DataSnipper v5 and later (v6.1, v25, v26). For the foundational Document Matching workflow, see How to automate your test with Document Matching.
Video walkthrough
What the video covers
The walkthrough demonstrates how to set up a multi-way Document Matching run across more than one document type. It shows importing documents into the Document Organizer, opening Document Matching, selecting the Excel sample data, choosing the Use document folders option, creating separate folders per document type (for example invoices and bank statements), letting DataSnipper place output columns for each folder, and running Match all rows so each sample row produces matches in distinct output columns by document type.
When to use multiple document types
Selecting multiple document types adds additional validations in your test of detail. Each sample row is matched against more than one document type, with each match landing in its own output column. Common combinations:
Invoice plus bank statement.
Invoice plus purchase order plus goods received note.
Sales ledger plus contract plus customer payment.
Prerequisites
At least two different document types received from the client.
Sample data ready in Microsoft Excel.
Data fields to test identified.
DataSnipper v5.0 or later.
Set up the multi-way match
Import documents via Import Documents or Document Organizer.
Click Document Extraction, then Start new Document Matching.
What the video covers: opening Document Matching and starting a new run.
Select the cells containing your sample data. You can type the cell range or drag-select with your cursor.
If your sample data includes headers, check First row includes headers.
Click Next Step.
What the video covers: selecting the Excel sample data cells, marking the header row, and continuing to the next step.
Select Use documents folders.
Click Add new folder to segment documents into groups, one per document type. Check the boxes of folders to include.
Click Next.
What the video covers: choosing Use document folders, adding a folder per document type, and continuing.
DataSnipper automatically selects output columns. Adjust them manually if your procedure needs different placements.
What the video covers: how DataSnipper auto-selects the output columns for each folder.
Click Match all rows. The matches appear in separate output columns, one set per document type.
Review each output using your professional judgment.
What the video covers: running Match all rows and reviewing the matches produced per document type.
Advanced options for multi-way matches
When matches are weaker than expected (for example because document types use different formatting for the same value), use the advanced options to allow deviations or partial matches. See How to use Advanced Options in Document Matching.
Save the setup as a template
Multi-way matches are often reused across audits with similar document profiles. Save the setup as a template:
Click Save as template.
Provide a name and an optional description.
Click OK. The template appears in My Templates.
What the video covers: saving the multi-way setup as a reusable template.
To share templates across your organization, see How to create company templates in Document Matching.