How should findings from the audit be communicated to stakeholders?

Communicating findings from an audit effectively is critical to ensuring that stakeholders understand and can act upon the results. A summarized report with only high-level points might overlook essential insights that could impact decision-making and strategic planning. While verbal presentations can be helpful for conveying key messages, they may lack the depth and clarity that documentation provides. Informal discussions might not capture all necessary details, leading to misunderstandings or incomplete information.

Providing a report with all relevant details recorded clearly is essential. It ensures that stakeholders receive comprehensive insights into the audit findings, including the context, evidence, and implications of those findings. Documentation serves as a formal record that can be referenced in the future, making it easier for stakeholders to recall the specifics of the audit and understand the rationale behind any conclusions drawn. This approach fosters transparency, facilitates informed decision-making, and helps in tracking the implementation of any recommended actions.