New Global Guidance from The IIA: 

Strengthening Internal Audit in Key Risk Areas

Internal audit is evolving rapidly — and staying ahead means leveraging the latest global insights and best practices. The Institute of Internal Auditors (The IIA) has recently published four important guidance documents designed to support internal auditors in addressing today’s most pressing risks and challenges.

Here’s what you need to know:

GTAG: Understanding and Auditing Big Data

Data is everywhere — but are we auditing it effectively?
This Global Technology Audit Guide (GTAG) helps internal auditors understand the fundamentals of big data, including governance, data quality, analytics, privacy, and risk management.

It provides practical insights into:

• Big data architecture and ecosystems
• Key risks related to data integrity and security
• Governance and control frameworks
• The role of internal audit in providing assurance over data-driven environments

A  must-read  for auditors navigating digital transformation and data-heavy organizations.

Practice Guide: Communicating Results of Internal Audit Services

Strong audit work deserves strong communication.
This guide focuses on how internal auditors can deliver clear, impactful, and value-driven audit reports.

It covers:

• Structuring audit communications for different stakeholders
• Enhancing clarity, tone, and transparency
• Ensuring recommendations drive action
• Aligning communication with the Global Internal Audit Standards

Effective reporting strengthens credibility, supports governance, and maximizes audit impact.

Read More

Practice Guide: Auditing Procurement in the Public Sector

Public sector procurement remains highly exposed to fraud, inefficiency, and compliance risks.
This guide provides practical direction for auditing procurement processes in government and public entities.

Key topics include:

• Regulatory and compliance frameworks
• Fraud risks and conflict of interest
• Transparency and accountability mechanisms
• Risk-based audit approaches for procurement cycles

It is especially valuable for internal auditors working in or with public sector organizations.

Read More

Practice Guide: Auditing Credit Risk Management

Credit risk remains one of the most significant risks for financial institutions.
This guide supports internal auditors in evaluating the effectiveness of credit risk governance, policies, and controls.

It addresses:

• Credit risk frameworks and risk appetite
• Loan origination and monitoring processes
• Credit risk modeling and data considerations
• Governance and oversight structures

A critical resource for auditors in banking and financial services environments.

Read More

Why These Guides Matter

Together, these four publications reinforce the internal audit function’s role in:

• Addressing emerging technology risks
• Enhancing audit communication and impact
• Strengthening public sector accountability
• Providing assurance over core financial risks

We encourage all internal audit professionals to explore these global resources and integrate their insights into daily practice.