This comprehensive course delves into the critical phases of audit planning, preparation, and execution that form the foundation of successful audit engagements. Participants will learn systematic approaches to developing audit plans that align with organizational objectives and risk profiles. The course covers detailed preparation techniques including research, stakeholder analysis, and resource planning. Execution methodologies focus on effective fieldwork, evidence gathering, and dynamic adjustment of audit approaches. Through practical exercises and real-world scenarios, attendees will master the skills needed to conduct efficient and effective audits that deliver meaningful insights and recommendations to stakeholders.
Audit Planning, Preparation, and Execution
Operational Auditing and Quality Assurance
October 25, 2025
Introduction
Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Develop comprehensive audit plans aligned with organizational objectives
- Conduct thorough pre-audit research and risk assessments
- Create detailed audit programs and testing strategies
- Allocate resources effectively for audit engagements
- Execute audit fieldwork efficiently using appropriate techniques
- Gather sufficient and appropriate audit evidence
- Adapt audit approaches based on emerging findings
- Manage audit timelines and stakeholder expectations
- Document audit work effectively for review and follow-up
Target Audience
- Internal auditors at all experience levels
- Audit team leaders and supervisors
- Quality assurance auditors
- Compliance professionals
- Risk management staff
- External auditors seeking internal audit perspective
- Audit managers responsible for engagement oversight
Methodology
- Hands-on audit planning workshops
- Case studies on engagement planning
- Role-playing audit kick-off meetings
- Practical evidence gathering exercises
- Group discussions on fieldwork challenges
- Individual exercises on audit program development
- Real-world scenario simulations
Personal Impact
- Enhanced project management and planning skills
- Improved analytical and investigative abilities
- Stronger communication and stakeholder management
- Better time management and prioritization
- Increased confidence in audit execution
- Enhanced documentation and organization skills
Organizational Impact
- More efficient and effective audit engagements
- Improved audit quality and consistency
- Better resource utilization and cost management
- Enhanced stakeholder satisfaction with audit process
- Stronger risk identification and mitigation
- Increased value from audit activities
Course Outline
Unit 1: Strategic Audit Planning
Annual Audit Planning- Developing the risk-based annual audit plan
- Stakeholder engagement and expectation management
- Resource planning and budget development
- Board and audit committee communication
- Individual audit engagement scoping
- Objective setting and success criteria definition
- Timeline development and milestone planning
- Team formation and role assignment
Unit 2: Audit Preparation Phase
Pre-Audit Research- Understanding the audit entity and business processes
- Regulatory and compliance requirement analysis
- Previous audit findings and management action review
- Industry research and benchmarking
- Creating detailed audit programs and procedures
- Risk and control identification
- Testing strategy development
- Resource requirement finalization
Unit 3: Fieldwork Execution Fundamentals
Kick-off and Entrance Conference- Conducting effective audit kick-off meetings
- Establishing communication protocols
- Setting expectations with auditees
- Finalizing scope and approach with stakeholders
- Interviewing skills and techniques
- Documentation review and analysis
- Observation and inspection methods
- Data analytics and automated tools
Unit 4: Advanced Fieldwork Management
Testing Execution- Sampling methodologies and application
- Control testing design and execution
- Substantive testing procedures
- Documenting test results and findings
- Monitoring audit progress and timeline adherence
- Budget management and resource optimization
- Issue identification and escalation procedures
- Stakeholder communication during fieldwork
Unit 5: Fieldwork Completion and Transition
Evidence Evaluation- Assessing evidence sufficiency and appropriateness
- Finding validation and corroboration
- Root cause analysis techniques
- Impact assessment and significance determination
- Conducting preliminary finding discussions
- Management response collection
- Workpaper review and quality assurance
- Transition to reporting phase
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