Audit Findings
Identifying and Documenting Findings
How to recognize control deficiencies and document audit findings effectively
2025-12-25
Audit Findings are documented observations where evidence shows control deficiencies, non-compliance, or opportunities for improvement. Proper documentation ensures clarity and facilitates corrective action.
🔍 Elements of a Complete Finding
- Condition: What was observed (current state)
- Criteria: What should be (standard or requirement)
- Cause: Why the gap exists (root cause)
- Effect: Impact or consequence of the condition
- Recommendation: Suggested corrective action
📝 Writing Clear Findings
Effective findings are:
- Specific: Include concrete examples and data
- Objective: Based on evidence, not opinion
- Constructive: Focus on improvement opportunities
- Accurate: Facts verified and validated with management
✅ Validating Findings
Before finalizing, discuss draft findings with process owners to ensure accuracy, obtain management response, and validate feasibility of recommendations.
💡 SmartHubs Feature
Use SmartHubs' finding templates to ensure consistency and completeness. Link evidence directly to findings for seamless documentation and review.