Operational audit
An operational audit examines aspects of an organisation’s operations, often focusing on efficiency, effectiveness, controls and opportunities for improvement. Its scope and criteria depend on the assignment and mandate; it is distinct from an external financial-statement audit.
Worked example
Internal auditors assess how a warehouse handles deliveries and recommend changes to reduce delays and errors.
Common mistake
Do not assume an operational audit automatically expresses an opinion on the financial statements.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | AA | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | BT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |