Operational Auditing: Principles and Techniques for a Changing World

Operational Auditing: Principles and Techniques for a Changing World, 2nd edition, explains the proven approaches and essential procedures to perform risk-based operational audits. It shows how to effectively evaluate the relevant dynamics associated with programs and processes, including operational, strategic, technological, financial and compliance objectives and risks. This book merges traditional internal audit concepts and practices with contemporary quality control methodologies, tips, tools and techniques. It explains how internal auditors can perform operational audits that result in meaningful findings and useful recommendations to help organizations meet objectives and improve the perception of internal auditors as high-value contributors, appropriate change agents and trusted advisors. The 2nd edition introduces or expands the previous coverage of: • Control self-assessments. • The 7 Es framework for operational quality. • Linkages to ISO 9000. • Flowcharting techniques and value-stream analysis • Continuous monitoring. • The use of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Key Risk Indicators (KRIs). • Robotic process automation (RPA), artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML); and • Adds a new chapter that will examine the role of organizational structure and its impact on effective communications, task allocation, coordination, and operational resiliency to more effectively respond to market demands.