Auditing is an important process in quality management that is used to review and evaluate the effectiveness of quality management systems, processes and procedures. An audit is a systematic examination and evaluation of documents, records, practices and procedures to ensure that they comply with established standards, guidelines and requirements.

The aim of an audit is to uncover potential for improvement, identify weaknesses and make recommendations for continuous improvement. Audits can be conducted internally to check performance and compliance within an organization, or externally by independent auditors to check compliance with external standards or regulations.

An important standard in the field of auditing is ISO 19011, which provides guidelines for auditing quality and environmental management systems. ISO 19011 sets out principles and procedures for planning, conducting and reporting audits and provides guidance on the competence and independence of auditors.

Auditors play an important role in the audit process. They are responsible for conducting audits, evaluating information and evidence, communicating findings and recommendations, and supporting the implementation of improvement actions. Auditors should have auditing expertise as well as industry-specific knowledge and communication skills.

By conducting audits, organizations can improve their performance, minimize risks and ensure compliance with standards and regulations. Audits are an essential tool for continuous improvement and for ensuring the effectiveness of quality management systems and processes.