auditoria que es

What is an audit: definition, types and meaning

Do you know what an audit is and what types of audits exist? It is a process that a company will probably go through more than once in its life. Although it may not be the same type of audit every time.

Is that positive or negative? The truth is that it depends on the type of audit, who carries it out and why. And although it may sound a bit strange, you will find out more about this when you learn about the wide diversity of types of audits.

But let’s start from the beginning: the definition of audit.

What is an audit: definition and basic types

What is an audit?

It is the compendium of the investigation and collection of data and evidence on an aspect related to a company or entity carried out by an auditor in order to verify its status and/or compliance with specific norms, standards or rules.

There are basically two types of audits: internal and external.

What is an internal audit and an external audit?

What is an internal audit? An internal audit is one that is carried out within the company, entity or organisation itself.

What is an external audit? An external audit is one that is carried out by a third party. In other words, it is carried out by people outside the audited company, entity or enterprise. To ensure that it is a quality job, it is advisable that it is planned and carried out by professionals. By firms, entities or companies specialised and qualified in the evaluation of the type of audit to be carried out.

In this case we can also speak of two different types of audits: voluntary and mandatory.

Voluntary audits, for example, are commissioned by the entity itself to ascertain the real state of its accounts. Or in organisational development, to obtain quality certification that accredits its compliance with recognised standards

The mandatory audit is that which, for example, may be ordered by a court or the Tax Agency to check the accounts and movements carried out within the audited company or entity. And that would be used to check the legality or illegality of the same.

But there is even more to consider when we talk about what an audit is. Depending on what aspects you analyse or audit, there are a variety of different types of audits.

types of audits

Common types of audits and what they are used for

What is process auditing?

A process auditing analyses and collects data to identify the risks and opportunities of that company or entity. The aim is to have real information about the company or entity in order to develop strategic actions to improve internal management.

At Nextport we know it well because it is one of our services.

Financial audit

What is a financial audit? A financial audit is an examination of the accounts of a company or entity. Its purpose is to verify that the accounting data are consistent and not misrepresented. It includes an investigation into the actual state of the accounts and the financial situation of the audited entity at all levels.

Quality audit

What is a quality audit and what is it for? Its objective is to verify that the quality system implemented by a company achieves the established standards or objectives. And that it has the capacity to maintain them over time.

It is used, for example, to assess whether you can receive a certain quality certification or a recognised qualification. For example, an ISO certification or a Q for quality.

Equal pay audit

The equal pay audit aims to verify whether there is a pay gap between men and women in the company. And whether the equality rights required by law are being respected in the company.

What is an energy audit and what does it consist of?

It analyses and collects information on energy consumption in the company or in one of its processes, buildings or systems. Efficiency and energy flows should be studied through inspections and the collection of data on energy consumption.

Marketing audit

It analyses and evaluates strategies, actions or programmes related to marketing. The aim is to detect mistakes and successes and their profitability. The goal is to develop strategies to achieve better results in a more cost-effective way.

what is an audit

Social

It consists of an analysis of the balance of its social action and ethical behaviour. It also evaluates the efficient use of economic, technical and human resources. Its main functions are to verify the transparency of the entity or company in these aspects.

What is an environmental audit?

Another of the most common is the environmental one. It can be commissioned or carried out for different purposes. For example, to check whether environmental legislation is being complied with. Or if you are eligible for environmental quality certification. Or to identify failures and to find out what needs to be improved in this area. Or to show the public that you really are a sustainable company or have ECO values, among other purposes.

But what is an environmental audit? One that evaluates the audited organisation’s or company’s environmental performance, achievements and position of respect and care for the environment.

Communication audit

It evaluates and diagnoses the organisation’s communication capacities, its actions and how they are perceived by the people to whom they are addressed. The purpose is usually to identify failures and successes in order to implement improvements in the company in this aspect.

What is an innovation audit?

That which assesses the company’s current situation regarding innovation. It usually consists of an analysis of the company’s innovative activities, if they exist. And what their development and results are.

Tax Audit

Its purpose is to verify that the organisation complies with the tax laws of the country or countries in which it operates. And that it is paying its taxes correctly and legally.

Other common types of audits

  • Legal
  • Administrative
  • Web accessibility
  • Forensic
  • Cybersecurity.
  • Prevention
  • Accessibility
  • Integral
  • Human resources

And there is more. Now you know what an audit is, and which are the most frequent ones. Do you think your organisation needs any of them?

25,100 thoughts on “What is an audit: definition, types and meaning”

  1. Hello there, just became alert to your blog through
    Google, and found that it is really informative. I’m going to
    watch out for brussels. I’ll be grateful if you continue this in future.
    Many people will be benefited from your writing.
    Cheers!

  2. Wonderful beat ! I wish to apprentice whilst you amend your website, how could
    i subscribe for a blog site? The account helped me a appropriate
    deal. I were a little bit acquainted of this your broadcast
    offered vibrant transparent idea

  3. I’m truly enjoying the design and layout of your blog.
    It’s a very easy on the eyes which makes it much more pleasant for me to come here and visit more
    often. Did you hire out a designer to create your theme?
    Exceptional work!

  4. What i don’t understood is if truth be told how you’re no longer really a lot more neatly-appreciated than you may be now.
    You’re very intelligent. You realize therefore considerably
    in terms of this matter, made me individually consider it from numerous numerous angles.
    Its like women and men are not fascinated except it is one thing to accomplish with Girl gaga!
    Your individual stuffs great. At all times take care of it
    up!

  5. Howdy! This post couldn’t be written any better! Reading through this post reminds me of my
    good old room mate! He always kept talking about this.
    I will forward this post to him. Pretty sure he will have a good read.
    Many thanks for sharing!

  6. Hey people,

    I’ve been exploring the world of internet gambling lately, and I’ve gotta say — it’s a total blast. At first, I was a bit wary. I mean, how do you even trust an online platform with your hard-earned money, right? But after spending hours researching (and trying out a few sketchy sites so you can avoid that mess), I figured out a few things that separate a reliable casino from a complete fraud. First off, if you’re new to all this, here’s the golden rule: **regulation is key**. If a casino doesn’t have a proper legal status (like from the Malta Gaming Authority or the UK Gambling Commission), just close that tab. No bonus is worth the risk of never seeing your money again. Also — and I know no one wants to — go through the small print. That’s the only way to know what kind of hidden traps they’ve slapped onto those so-called “juicy” bonuses.

    Now, let me share a site I’ve been using these last few weeks. It’s been a breath of fresh air. The interface? Super smooth. Payouts? Fast as hell. And the game selection? *Massive*. Slots, live dealers, blackjack, even some weird niche games I hadn’t tried before. Check it out here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/den-nikel-000028375/ What really stood out was the support team. I had a tiny issue with a bonus not working, and they got back to me in like instantly. Compare that to other sites where you’re just shouting into the void — yeah, not worth it.

    Also, if you’re into bonuses (and who isn’t?), this place offers some awesome ones. But here’s the trick: don’t just grab every shiny offer. It’s smarter to go for clear terms than a huge bonus you’ll never be able to withdraw. I’m not saying you should go and drop your rent money — please don’t. But if you’ve got a little extra cash and you’re looking for a fun way to unwind, online casinos can totally deliver. Just play smart, control your bankroll, and don’t treat it like a side hustle. It’s for fun, not for a paycheck. Anyway, just wanted to drop my experience here in case anyone’s interested or trying to find a good place to play. If you’ve got your own go-to sites or even some casino nightmares, I’m all ears — love talking shop about this stuff.

    Good luck out there, and spin smart, win big ??

  7. Hello there! This is kind of off topic but I need some advice from an established blog.
    Is it hard to set up your own blog? I’m not very techincal but I can figure things out pretty fast.
    I’m thinking about setting up my own but I’m not sure where to start.

    Do you have any ideas or suggestions? With thanks

  8. I’m not that much of a online reader to be honest but your sites really nice, keep it up!

    I’ll go ahead and bookmark your website to come back
    down the road. All the best

  9. Sup folks, just wanted to share my take on the https://osclass-classifieds.a2hosted.com/index.php?page=item&id=112685 — this thing is straight-up thrilling! The combo of easy-to-learn rules with solid rewards is just on point. Every ball ends up random, but still gives you that vibe of calculation.

    I’m playing on the Plinko download and it’s clean on my phone, even with older hardware. Zero delays, and the navigation is simple. No lie, this thing’s got me dropping nonstop. And thanks to the real money feature, it’s not just timepass — you can win big if you hit the right spot.

    By the way, in SA, the game’s getting huge. People are jumping in like crazy — it’s like the perfect thing for mobile play. So yeah, if you are still thinking, just download — the app is 100% next level.

  10. I loved as much as you’ll receive carried out right here.
    The sketch is attractive, your authored subject matter stylish.
    nonetheless, you command get got an edginess over that you
    wish be delivering the following. unwell unquestionably come further formerly again since exactly
    the same nearly very often inside case you shield this hike.

  11. whoah this blog is magnificent i really like studying your
    articles. Stay up the great work! You know, many persons
    are searching around for this information, you can aid them greatly.

  12. This design is steller! You obviously know how
    to keep a reader amused. Between your wit and your videos, I
    was almost moved to start my own blog (well, almost…HaHa!) Fantastic job.
    I really enjoyed what you had to say, and more than that, how you presented it.
    Too cool!

  13. We have been helping Canadians Borrow Money Against
    Their Car Title Since March 2009 and are among the very few Completely Online Lenders in Canada.
    With us you can obtain a Loan Online from anywhere
    in Canada as long as you have a Fully Paid Off Vehicle that is 8 Years old or newer.
    We look forward to meeting all your financial needs.

  14. You are so interesting! I do not suppose I’ve truly read something like this before.
    So great to find somebody with genuine thoughts on this topic.
    Really.. thanks for starting this up. This website is something
    that is required on the internet, someone with a bit of originality!

  15. Hi there! Do you know if they make any plugins to help with Search Engine Optimization? I’m
    trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m
    not seeing very good success. If you know of any please share.
    Thank you!

  16. Attractive component to content. I just stumbled upon your blog and in accession capital to claim
    that I get in fact enjoyed account your weblog posts. Anyway I will be subscribing in your feeds or even I success you get right of entry to constantly quickly.

  17. Trade online with pocketoption-uk.co.uk – a trusted platform with low entry requirements. Start with as little as £1, access over 100 global assets including GBP/USD, FTSE 100 and crypto. Fast payouts, user-friendly interface, and welcome bonuses for new traders.

  18. I do not e?en know how I ended up here, but I thought t?is post
    was great. I don’t know who you are but definitely you’re going to a famous blo?ger if you ?re not alread? ;
    ) Cheers!

    Feel free to surf t? my page – Rc lawn mower

  19. Woah! I’m really loving the template/theme of this website.
    It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s challenging to get
    that “perfect balance” between user friendliness and visual appearance.
    I must say you’ve done a amazing job with this. Additionally, the blog loads extremely quick for me on Chrome.

    Exceptional Blog!

  20. Today, I went to the beach with my kids. I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.”
    She placed the shell to her ear and screamed. There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear.
    She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is completely off topic but I
    had to tell someone!

  21. This is the right blog for everyone who wants to understand this
    topic. You realize so much its almost tough to argue with you (not that I actually
    will need to…HaHa). You certainly put a fresh spin on a subject that’s been written about
    for many years. Excellent stuff, just great!

  22. Pretty section of content. I just stumbled upon your website and in accession capital to say that I acquire actually enjoyed account
    your weblog posts. Anyway I’ll be subscribing to your feeds or even I success you get admission to persistently
    quickly.

  23. Do you have a spam issue on this blog; I also am a blogger, and I was
    curious about your situation; we have created some nice procedures and we are looking to swap
    techniques with other folks, please shoot me an email if interested.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top