Abstract
Purpose –To investigate and understand the reasons why internal auditing is often perceived to not
add value. This paper describes the development of a new process model and approach that will
improve the actual and perceived value of auditing.
Design/methodology/approach – Process analysis, identified areas of potential inefficiency and
conflict. The literature review identified the standards and guidance that influence the way internal
auditing is managed and its current trends. A questionnaire was sent to auditors and auditees at AWE
Plc., to gain their views on audit effectiveness and quantify their perception of value.
Findings – Questionnaire results show variations in the perceived value of internal auditing,
particularly of some key stages in the process. The management of internal auditing is too focused on
programme achievement, not the resulting value from improvement action.
Research limitations/implications – The new process model has yet to be tried in practice, and
this identifies an area of future research. It is envisaged that some additional audit preparation would
be required, and the time taken to conduct an audit may also increase slightly. The financial benefits
quoted by applying the new model would be estimated and may require some justification.