Integrated audit – a new approach. In the fast-paced world of business, audits play a critical role in ensuring compliance, enhancing efficiency, and fostering continuous improvement. Over the years, various forms of audits have been implemented across organizations to scrutinize different aspects of their operations. From Health and Safety audits to Quality audits and Management “walks,” these evaluative processes are integral to maintaining high standards and driving business success. However, the question arises: Are we leveraging these audits to their full potential? This contemplation has led to a groundbreaking approach aimed at maximizing the benefits of auditing processes for organizations.
For many years now, I’ve been closely watching the variety of audits conducted within organizations:
- Health and Safety audits
- Quality audits, including the Layer Audit Process and Process Audits
- 5S audits
- Audits for cleanliness – meeting specific requirements
- Audits of operating systems
- Management “walks” such as gemba walks and management audits…
Integrated Audit Value and Utilization
I’ve been pondering whether these tasks or procedures are being optimally utilized by businesses. It’s clear that these audits hold value (especially when they go beyond mere walkthroughs), but I’m curious about how to enhance and make better use of the opportunities presented by audit processes. I’m interested in how to extract more advantages from these procedures for our company.
Concept of Integrated Audit
This has led me to the idea of integrating these diverse audits. This integration would involve coordinating their planning, monitoring their execution, examining their outcomes, and evaluating the effectiveness of each audit. The goal is to emphasize what should be a central aspect of audits: contributing value and fostering business improvement. I propose designing a process that directs managers’ attention to:
- Confirming that the audit subject meets the necessary standards
- Checking if the organization’s objectives have been met
- Assessing whether the organization’s actions adhere to relevant norms
- Providing suggestions for improvements and changes
- Ensuring that recommendations from prior audits have been put into action
- Aiming to prevent mistakes before they happen
- Demonstrating leadership commitment and interest in ongoing operations
- Engaging and motivating employees who are directly involved in audits (both auditors and those being audited)
- Overseeing and tracking the process
- Gathering firsthand information (gemba)
- Understanding the true strengths and weaknesses of the process under review
- Directly experiencing the process in action
Introducing the Audit
Integrated audit – a new approach. I have named this approach the INTEGRATED AUDIT. The inception of the Integrated Audit marks a significant evolution in the way businesses approach the concept of auditing. By amalgamating various auditing processes into a cohesive framework, organizations can harness the full potential of these evaluations to not only ensure compliance but also to drive meaningful improvements across all levels. This holistic approach encourages a culture of continuous enhancement, where audits are no longer seen as mere formalities but as pivotal elements that contribute to the organization’s growth and success. As we move forward, the Integrated Audit stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of modern business practices, promising a brighter, more efficient future for organizations willing to embrace this comprehensive strategy.
Boguslaw is certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Responsible for implementing Lean Culture in the organizations, starting from 5S program, changes in the Operating System, and growth in Problem Solving Tools. He is a Lean Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in different industries.
