Professional Development

 

Course Objectives

How can you uncover the root causes of issues identified during your audits, and incorporate them into your recommendations?

This course introduces tools and techniques to incorporate root cause analysis in each phase of the audit process and make recommendations that address the underlying causes of observed deficiencies. By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the use of root cause analysis throughout the audit process;
• Identify and assess common categories of root causes;
• Recognize and mitigate cognitive biases that can affect audit judgment and analysis;
• Apply key root cause analysis techniques to analyze audit issues in a structured manner;
• Develop clear, targeted recommendations that address underlying causes and support improvements.

Who Should Participate?

This course is for internal and external auditors at all levels who work on complex audits.

Format

This 12-hour live virtual course is delivered over 2 days. The course includes a mix of instructor-led content, interactive exercises, and break-out sessions.

Course Outline

Day 1 | 6 hours

• Introduction to root cause analysis
• Root cause analysis and the audit process
• Cognitive biases and their impact on identifying root causes
• Main categories of possible root causes
• Root cause analysis techniques:
  • Fishbone diagram

Day 2 | 6 hours

• Root cause analysis techniques (cont'd):
  • Five why's
  • Cause mapping
  • Pareto charts
• Crafting good audit recommendations
• Review of key concepts

 

 

Note: Prices are per person for virtual courses only. Price for in-person courses can be provided upon request.

Accreditation

Course hours can be submitted for CPE or CPD credits, subject to approval by IIA, CPA Canada, or other professional associations.