Why Dread Audits?

As stressful as our new “normal” is, why add the stress of audits to that too? Instead, create a system that doesn’t need last minute “cleanup for the auditor.”
Automate data collection – identify the data your system automatically collects, use that to monitor objectives, and review it monthly or quarterly.
Develop processes and procedures that make it easy to gather all required documentation well before the audit
Don’t leave internal audits until the last month - Scheduling periodic reviews/audits of systems ensures your systems are being maintained year round
Ask internal auditors to find improvements – not just check the “complaint” box.
Assign action items to appropriate team members and include a reasonable due date, leaving adequate time for review and corrections if necessary.
Reward the team for staying on schedule – celebrate the wins, and the learnings!