ISO 9000 defines an audit as "a systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining objective evidence and evaluating it objectively to determine the extent to which the audit criteria are fulfilled."
A quality audit is typically carried out by an internal or external quality auditor or audit team. Internal and external audits provide different perspectives. Internal audits focus more on the internal and external processes and procedures. In contrast, external audits typically look into the actual products, and it's compliance with external requirements (such as codes, standards and contracts).
This post will discuss various benefits of internal and external audits.
Benefits of internal and external audits
- It provides a holistic view of the organization.
- It helps identify potential issues early.
- It helps identify areas (or risks) where improvements need to be made.
- It helps improve the overall effectiveness of the organization.
- It helps identify if the final product is fit for use and meets customer requirements.
- It helps ensure that the required work processes are in place and are effective.
- It helps avoid lawsuits by ensuring that the organization meets all legal/regulatory needs.
- It ensures that the Corrective Actions (Remedial actions) are taken that are effective.
- Having proper systems and processes in place helps organizations reduce rework and rejections, which reduces costs. This, in fact, leads to better customer confidence, improved market reputation and increased sale
