An audit (from Latin audire = to hear) is generally an investigation or testing procedure that is used to evaluate processes, products or services with regard to their fulfillment of requirements and guidelines.
An audit has positive effects if it is constructive and shows potential for improvement. Audits are often used to test the effectiveness of measures within the framework of quality management systems. They are carried out by specially trained internal or external auditors.
Audits are now common in almost all organizations and companies, e.g. in the areas of quality management, leadership management, production, finance, IT management, data protection, customer management, environmental management and certifications.
During audits, questions must be asked about solutions, resources, competencies, assessments and the necessary steps to achieve objectives.
The audit report is the basis for the implementation of suggested improvements.
Reflecting on what has been achieved or neglected, what has succeeded or failed, is part of a company's ability to learn.
See also:
Quality management; work process; efficiency; process optimization
Reference to QET guidelines:
T18 Audit; T16 SWOT; Q04 Employees; Q06 Change Management; Q12 Quality Management; Q15 Processes; Q20 KVP