Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Introduction to Operations Auditing

• Understand the purpose and scope of an operations audit.
• Differentiate between financial audits, compliance audits, and operational audits.
• Learn the principles of auditing (independence, objectivity, and systematic evaluation).

2. Audit Planning and Preparation

• Define audit objectives, scope, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Identify audit stakeholders and key operational processes.
• Develop audit checklists and data collection tools.

3. Risk Assessment and Internal Controls Evaluation

• Perform risk-based auditing to identify high-risk areas.
• Assess internal controls, process effectiveness, and operational compliance.
• Apply root cause analysis (RCA) and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA).

4. Data Collection and Evidence Gathering

• Conduct interviews, process walkthroughs, and document reviews.
• Utilize data analytics for performance measurement and anomaly detection.
• Implement sampling techniques and statistical analysis for audit accuracy.

5. Performance Metrics and Benchmarking

• Measure operational efficiency using productivity and cost metrics.
• Compare audit findings with industry best practices and benchmarks.
• Develop key recommendations for performance improvement.

6. Compliance and Regulatory Auditing

• Ensure adherence to ISO, OSHA, FDA, EPA, and industry-specific regulations.
• Monitor compliance with company policies, procedures, and ethical guidelines.
• Address audit findings related to environmental, health, and safety (EHS) standards.

7. Reporting Audit Findings and Recommendations

• Prepare comprehensive audit reports with actionable insights.
• Communicate findings effectively to management and stakeholders.
• Develop corrective action plans and track implementation progress.

8. Continuous Improvement and Audit Follow-Up

• Establish post-audit monitoring and continuous improvement processes.
• Implement Lean Six Sigma methodologies for process optimization.
• Use feedback loops and audit tracking systems for ongoing compliance.

9. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world operations audit scenarios and best practices.
• Participate in mock audit exercises and report writing workshops.
• Develop a customized operations audit framework for a selected industry.

Target Audience

• Operations managers and business analysts
• Internal auditors and compliance officers
• Quality assurance and risk management professionals
• Supply chain and logistics personnel
• Corporate governance and regulatory affairs teams