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How to Write Effective Audit Observations: The Principles for Bullet Proofing Your Audit Findings 1.5 Credits

Dec 18, 2024, 03:30 PM ET

How to Write Effective Audit Observations: The Principles for Bullet Proofing Your Audit Findings 1.5 Credits

  • Jonnie Keith

    CIA, CFE, CGAP
  • Rating

    4.6
  • Published on

    November, 2024
  • Subject Area

    Auditing

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Dec 18, 2024, 03:30 PM ET

Learning Objective

  • To discuss the five components of an effective audit observation.
  • To discuss examples of each component.
  • To describe the relevant IIA Standards.
  • To identify the needed information for adequate follow-up.
  • To determine the importance of observation headlines.

Course Overview

Preparing for and conducting an audit are the initial components of the audit process; writing a good audit report is the final step. Communicating the results of an audit is just as important as performing it. However, auditors are often frustrated when their audit reports are not taken seriously or used effectively because they do not provide meaningful information.

Even the best-planned audit will do little good if results are not effectively communicated to the audit client to make the needed fixes. This CPE Auditing course will discuss how to write audit observations so that whether it’s used internally or externally, the audit report conveys the proper information.

The key to writing an effective audit observation is having a comprehensive structured process. The Institute of Internal Auditors recommends a process known as the 5Cs:

  • Criteria
  • Condition
  • Cause
  • Consequences (Effect)
  • Corrective Action (Recommendation)

As you develop conclusions, findings, and recommendations, you must present them to your client in a logical, complete, and objective way. This process provides an easy way to consistently develop and present your observations in a timely manner. The components of this process include all the information you will need to inform and persuade. It allows you to present your findings to your reader in a logical, complete, and objective manner and, thus, enhances the chances of the client’s buy-in and their agreement to your recommendations.

Explore your career with MY-CPE online CPE Courses for CIA Professionals. Earn valuable CIA CPE credits while expanding your skills and knowledge from anywhere, anytime. Our courses cover a wide range of topics relevant to your field, ensuring you stay up-to-date with the latest developments. With flexible scheduling and expert-led content, MY-CPE provides a convenient and effective learning experience tailored to your needs. Join us today and take advantage of our comprehensive resources to propel your career forward. Let MY-CPE be your trusted partner in achieving your professional goals.

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Additional Information

Credits

1.5

Course Level

Basic

Instructional Method

QAS Self Study
Group Internet Based

Pre-requisites

None

Advance Preparation

None

NASBA APPROVED

MY-CPE LLC, 1600 Highway 6 south, suite 250, sugar land, TX, 77478

MY-CPE LLC (Sponsor Id#: 143597) is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors.

About Instructor

CPE/CPD Courses for CRMA, CPA/CFF, CFE Accountants | Jonnie Keith
Jonnie Keith , CIA, CFE, CGAP

Auditor, JonSherr Ent.

  • 4.6
  • rating
  • rating
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Mr. Keith has over 50 years of audit experience and served as the Chief Audit Executive for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) for 12 years before his retirement in 2012.  His other audit experience includes serving as Operational Audit Manager for five years and was a Senior Auditor in the Contract Compliance Audit Branch at MARTA.  He was also a Senior Auditor at Norfolk Southern Railway, and a Bank Examiner at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. 


As the Chief Audit Executive for MARTA, he was responsible for administering the overall audit activities for the Department of Internal Audit including:

  • Providing the Board of Directors, the GM/CEO, MARTA Senior Management and appropriate government entities with independent analysis, appraisals, and recommendations concerning operational, information technology, contract compliance, and financial audits.
  • Directing the day-to-day activities for three audit managers, 12 auditors and the audit coordinator.
  • Developing an annual risk-based audit plan to maximize audit resources in addressing MARTA risks.
  • Assisting the Audit Committee Chair with the quarterly Audit committee meetings.
  • Developing and operating within the approved audit budget; and
  • Assisting the Board, the GM/CEO, and Management in other areas as necessary and requested.


He was a volunteer seminar instructor for the Institute of Internal Auditors. Some of the courses taught included: 

  • Writing Effective Audit Reports
  • Tools and Techniques for the Beginning Auditor
  • Communication Skills for Auditors
  • Leadership Skills for the Auditor-In-Charge
  • Audit Project Management
  • CIA Review Course

He has written three IIA Magazine articles including:

  • Killing the Spider, April 2005
  • Producing Quality Audit Reports, August 2018
  • Write Effective Audit Objectives, June 2020


He has provided training for the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners Annual Conference:

  • 2018 Bulletproofing Your Fraud Reports
  • 2019 Writing Effective Fraud Findings


He currently teaches audit webinars, including:

  • How to Write Effective Audit Observations
  • How to Put the Quality in Audit Reports
  • What It Takes to Be the Auditor-In-Charge
  • Report Writing Techniques for Audit Professionals
  • How to Assess Risks and Evaluate Controls


He has a degree in Economics from Clark Atlanta University.  His certifications include Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP).

Mr. Keith has been married over 50 years.  He also co-authored a book with his wife on marriage entitled “Tied Together – The Marriage Trinity”.  He has two daughters and five grandchildren. 

On Demand FAQs

What is Self Study (QAS)?

Self Study QAS (Quality Assurance Service) is a NASBA and other regulatory bodies approved program designed for Professionals to complete their Continuing Professional Education credits through self-paced, interactive courses that meet the highest standards of quality and compliance. We are approved by NASBA, IRS, CFP Board, HRCI, SHRM, Payroll Org, FP Canada, and 25+ other regulatory bodies.

How do I earn CPE credits through self-study?

To earn CPE credits, you must complete the self-study course, pass the required assessments, and submit the necessary documentation. Credits are awarded based on the completion of course hours and successfully passing the assessments.

Are the self-study courses approved by NASBA and other regulatory bodies?

Yes, all our self-study courses are approved by NASBA, IRS, CFP Board, HRCI, SHRM, Payroll Org, FP Canada, and 25+ other regulatory bodies, ensuring they meet the rigorous standards for quality and educational content set by these organizations.

What are the requirements to maintain compliance with self-study courses?

To maintain compliance, you must follow the guidelines set by NASBA and other regulatory bodies, which include completing the course within the specified timeframe, passing the assessments, and keeping accurate records of your learning activities.

How can I access my course completion certificates?

After successfully completing a self-study course and passing the assessments, you can access and download your course completion certificates from your account dashboard on our platform. These certificates are recognized by NASBA, IRS, CFP Board, HRCI, SHRM, Payroll Org, FP Canada, and 25+ other regulatory bodies for compliance and reporting purposes.

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A Live Webinar Group Internet-Based Credit is an interactive, real-time online seminar where professionals can earn Continuing Education credits by participating in live sessions led by experts in various fields. These sessions meet the standards set by NASBA, IRS, CFP Board, HRCI, SHRM, Payroll Org, FP Canada, and 25+ other regulatory bodies.

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To earn credits, you must attend the entire live webinar, actively participate in any polls or questions, and complete any required evaluations or assessments. Credits are awarded based on your attendance and participation in the live session.

Are the live webinars approved by NASBA and other regulatory bodies?

Yes, all our live webinars are approved by NASBA, IRS, CFP Board, HRCI, SHRM, Payroll Org, FP Canada, and 25+ other regulatory bodies, ensuring they meet the high standards for quality, interactivity, and educational content set by these organizations.

What are the requirements to maintain compliance with live webinar courses?

To maintain compliance, you must adhere to the guidelines set by NASBA and other regulatory bodies, which include attending the full duration of the webinar, participating in interactive elements, and completing any post-webinar evaluations or assessments.

How can I access my webinar completion certificates?

After successfully attending a live webinar and fulfilling all participation requirements, you can access and download your completion certificates from your account dashboard on our platform. These certificates are recognized by NASBA, IRS, CFP Board, HRCI, SHRM, Payroll Org, FP Canada, and 25+ other regulatory bodies for compliance and reporting purposes.

How are credits reported to governing bodies?

We issue instant credit certificates, ensuring they are valid for presentation to governing bodies. Typically, we report IRS, CTEC, CFP, IDFP, IWI, VBOA Ethics credits within 7 days – the fastest in the industry.

Reviews and Ratings

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Isabelle Prudhomme, CPA in Canada

Loved this course. The course was well structured and the delivery was perfect. It didn't feel like there was 5 hrs of material delivered into an hours and half session. No fluff and straight to the point.

DC

Darja Caurkubule, CIA

Well structured, straight to the point, loved provided examples.

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