INTERNAL AUDIT STANDAR D NO. 11 - COMMUNICATION OF RESULTS
1. Introduction
Internal auditors have an obligation to communicate the results of their audit activities to the appropriate parties in an effective and efficient manner. Internal auditors should also ensure that their communication of results accurately reflects the work performed and the results noted.
The purpose of Internal Audit Standard No. 11 – Communication of Results is to provide guidance to internal auditors on communicating the results of their audit activities in a timely, efficient and effective manner. This standard outlines the requirements for the communication of audit results and defines the internal auditor’s responsibilities in the process.
2. Scope and Applicability
This standard applies to all internal auditors and audit departments. It should be read in conjunction with other applicable internal audit standards and policies.
3. Requirements
3.1 Timeliness
The internal auditor should communicate the results of their audit activities in a timely manner and in accordance with relevant timelines established by the audit department. Audit results should be communicated and reviewed with the auditee promptly after the completion of the audit.
3.2 Form and Content of Communication
The form and content of the communication of audit results should be appropriate to the audit activity, the level of management and the significance of the results of the audit.
The following should be included in the communication of audit results:
• The objectives of the audit or review.
• An overview of the scope and methodology of the audit or review.
• A summary of the findings, including an identification of any findings that are significant in the context of the audit objectives.
• The parties responsible for implementing the audit recommendations, if any.
• The expected timeline for implementation, if applicable.
• The impact of any potential non-conformance or lack of follow-up on internal controls.
The communication of audit results should be approved by the internal auditor or the appropriate audit management.
3.3 Follow-up
The internal auditor should ensure that the audit recommendations are implemented in a timely and effective manner. The internal auditor should also monitor the audit process to ensure that the action plans are implemented as intended and report the results of the follow-up audit, as appropriate.
4. Additional Resources
• Institute of Internal Auditors. (2011). Internal Audit Standards. Retrieved from http://www.theiia.org/standards/internaldaudit/Pages/IA__Standards.aspx
• Institute of Internal Auditors. (2011). Communication of Audit Results. Retrieved from https://na.theiia.org/standards-guidance/ipd/Pages/Communication%20of%20Audit%20Results.aspx
