2009

Internal auditors are increasingly using surveys to assess objective data, and to review intangible topics such as the ethical environment and entity-level controls, which require examining soft controls such as integrity, values, accountability, and competence. Arguably some of the most difficult to assess, soft controls are required under the U.S.Sarbanes-oxley Act of 2002.

The first edition of this book was published in early 2001. In view of developments in international geopolitics since that time, it is clear that a second edition of the book is timely.

Readers will find useful information on the risks and challenges of international auditing, including: 

The Internal Audit Capability Model (IA-CM) for the Public Sector is a framework that identifies the fundamentals needed for effective internal auditing in government and the broader public sector. It illustrates the levels and stages through which an internal audit (IA) activity can evolve as it defines, implements, measures, controls, and improves its processes and practices.

Internal auditors are beginning to recognize that there are major organizational risks and costs associated with administering compensation and benefits programs, and are adjusting their efforts according. Inappropriate management of salary and benefits costs, which often make up a large portion of the overall budget, can have a significant financial impact on an organization. Additionally, the numerous laws governing compensation and benefits administration make compliance a key concern.

How does internal auditing deliver clear messages to the audit committee—messages that support good governance and deliver on internal audit’s mission?  

Audit Committee Reporting: A Guide for Internal Auditing helps readers not only to answer this question, but also to fashion a comprehensive approach to audit committee reporting. 

There is ample opportunity for auditors to dramatically improve the efficiency and effectiveness of both in-house and external legal counsel. Auditing the legal process is one way to help reduce waste associated with legal representation.

The audit can be performed within a reasonable amount of time and with a moderate amount of resources, provided the appropriate steps have been taken:

A must-read book for internal auditors working in government, this publication includes information that can readily be applied in any private or public sector organization. As a bonus, it provides guidance for passing the CGAP® exam. Developed for the practitioner and trainer, Performance Auditing: A Measurement Approach, 2nd Edition, emphasizes the use of measurement and comparison in performance assessment.

In this valuable resource, authors Raaum and Morgan present:

Using software to detect improper transactions are techniques that have grown in importance for fraud examiners. This book provides fraud examiners and auditors with step-by-step guidance on using data extraction and software to detect and prevent fraud. Its implementation guidance is supplemented by more than 60 case studies. Plus, it enables readers to use data to identify known and unknown symptoms of fraud.