A brief definition of application: A point on a consumer`s credit report that indicates that a copy of that person`s credit report has been requested. An excessive number of applications can reduce the person`s FICO SCORE. A communication link with a third party in a dispute that involves establishing the facts to resolve the dispute. The term can also be written as a «request». Source: Merriam-Webster`s Dictionary of Law ©, 1996. Licensed with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. The New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants provides the following definition of survey in a way that is easy for everyone to understand: A process of seeking information, financial and non-financial, from knowledgeable people throughout the organization. It is widely used throughout the audit and often complements the execution of other procedures. Questions can range from formal written questions to informal oral questions.