Perceptions of Audit Quality: A Survey Analysis

CIPFA, in association with Cara Research, has now released the full results of the Perception of Audit Quality Survey 2008. The survey brought together over 1000 responses from UK public sector internal auditors and their clients.

Building on the 1997 survey of the same name, Perceptions of Audit Quality identifies the key areas in which internal audit services have met clients' expectations in terms of quality and value for money, and where no discernable progress appears to have been made.

This theme-based report sets out the main areas where auditors and clients are in agreement about the standard of service that they receive, and areas where auditors still need to develop and progress if they are to provide a valuable and relevant service. The survey will be especially of interest to clients and audit providers wishing to focus on improving perceptions of corporate governance and risk.

An interesting set of results reveals a disparity between how clients view auditors, and how auditors view themselves. The report discusses why any differences in perception may create future challenges to current providers of audit services.

This comprehensive publication breaks down the big issues from the survey into detailed chapters, supported by appendices and extensive reference tables. The report is essential for internal auditors who want to improve relationships with their clients and the quality of their service, and is also directed towards the clients of internal audit who wish to benchmark their own experiences with other public sector bodies.