What best describes an audit?

An audit is best described as a planned, independent assessment of compliance. This definition emphasizes several key characteristics of an audit. Firstly, the term "planned" indicates that the audit process involves a predefined strategy, ensuring that assessments are thorough and systematic rather than ad-hoc or unstructured. Being "independent" underscores that the audit is conducted by individuals or entities without personal or financial ties to the subject being audited, thereby promoting objectivity and reducing any potential bias. Lastly, the focus on "compliance" highlights the audit's role in verifying that an organization adheres to certain standards, regulations, or internal policies.

This understanding of audits applies across various contexts, including quality management systems and financial evaluations, where compliance with regulations, procedures, and standards is critical for organizational effectiveness. The systematic and standardized nature of audits allows organizations to identify areas for improvement and verify the integrity of their processes and systems.