Definition
An Audit is a systematic, independent and documented assessment process used to determine whether specified requirements, principles or criteria have been met.
Human Explanation
An Audit checks whether an organisation actually operates in accordance with its adopted requirements, procedures or applicable rules.
Why it Matters
Audits identify nonconformities, assess the effectiveness of implemented arrangements and reveal areas that require improvement.
Conceptual Boundary
An Audit is not a search for someone to blame or an assessment of employees. Its purpose is an objective evaluation of conformity and system effectiveness.
Practical Perspective
The greatest value of an Audit lies in conclusions that lead to improvement, not in the final report itself.