The detailed risk assessment results in this sample audit report can help you measure and improve your organization’s internal audit process. By conducting a thorough risk assessment, the document provides management with insights into potential vulnerabilities within various business processes, ensuring that critical areas receive appropriate attention during audits. The plan is designed not only to comply with regulatory requirements, such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, but also to promote best practices in risk management and internal controls.  

It includes detailed sections on the audit universe, prioritization of audit projects based on risk significance, and suggested types of audits tailored to address specific risk areas. Furthermore, the document emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and adaptability, allowing for revisions in response to changing conditions or emerging risks. Overall, this plan is an essential tool for guiding the internal audit function, fostering accountability, and ensuring that the organization maintains a robust control environment while effectively managing risks.

Under this sample, the audit planning process includes:

• Maintaining an internal audit function that provides management and the audit committee with ongoing assessments of the company’s risk management processes and system of internal control
• Providing independent monitoring of key business risks, including compliance, financial and operational risks
• Minimizing unexpected issues (surprises) and reducing the risk of fraudulent activities
• Promoting best practices across the organization and ensuring consistent application of those practices and policies