Audit process
Before the audit begins
For all audit work carried out, terms of reference are drawn up and agreed with the relevant Head of School, Department or Service under review. These terms of reference will give a clear indication as to how the audit will be carried out and will include the objectives, approach and timing of the audit.
During the audit
Staff from the Department of Audit and Business Assurance will work with staff in the area under review to prepare a report which will contain recommendations, where necessary, for improvement and will be presented to the Audit and Compliance Committee. Generally, this will involve interviews with key members of staff and the review and analysis of reports and other management information. More occassionally it might involve 'walk-throughs' of processes with individual staff members, so that the Review Team can better understand the processes undertaken.
After the audit
At the conclusion of the audit review a draft report will be produced which is discussed with the appropriate manager before being issued. Any recommendations contained within the report are agreed for implementation, where possible. Recommendations are graded in accordance with HEFCE guidelines, i.e. 1 (fundamental), 2 (significant) and 3 (merits attention). This process provides a clear opportunity for feedback on the part of those subject to audit review.
Follow-up to concluded audits
The implementation of audit recommendations is closely monitored by the Department of Audit and Business Assurance. Progress against agreed timescales is reported, as part of the Department’s regular report on internal audit activity, to the Audit and Compliance Committee.