Each component of internal control comprises different elements which when combined together provide reasonable assurance regarding the accomplishment of the component. (Also see Characteristics of internal control)
For example, to provide an effective control environment that supports the prevention or detection and correction of material misstatements within the financial statements, we look for the following elements: communication and enforcement of integrity and ethical values; commitment to competence; participation by those charged with governance; management's philosophy and operating style; organizational structure; assignment of authority and responsibility; and human resource policies and practices.