Sawyer's Guide for Internal Auditors

First published in 1973, Larry Sawyer’s work has helped guide many internal auditors and shaped the profession. While the foundation principles of internal auditing remain core, the ever-changing global business environment requires that internal auditors continue to adapt their position as value-adding partners in their organizations or risk becoming obsolete.



Sawyer’s philosophy was that internal auditors should watch for emerging trends while keeping pace with changes in The IIA’s International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (Standards), IT, legislation, and regulations—and to respond effectively to international events and evolving governance and risk management mandates.



This 6th edition is a 3-volume set, making the content more navigable for the reader, and each volume includes an index and glossary for easy reference.



Volume 1: Internal Audit Essentials

Volume 2: Internal Audit Processes and Methods

Volume 3: Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance Essentials



Volume 1: Internal Audit Essentials









This volume provides the basic background information that informs the practice of internal auditing. The history of internal auditing is explored and culminates in the profession as the risk-based endeavor it is today. Risk and control models are introduced along with IT frameworks. Finally, the differences between assurance and consulting engagements and the specific activities involved for each are enumerated, and a thought-provoking discussion of blended engagements is provided.





Volume 2: Internal Audit Processes and Methods





Volume 2 is more tactical than Volume 1. Beginning with the broader view of managing client and stakeholder relationships and managing audit processes, it narrows its focus to cover specific audit processes and methods, such as:



•Defining the audit/risk universe.

•Planning assurance engagements.

•Evaluating control design.

•Testing controls.

•Documenting work performed.

•Communicating results.

•Engaging in consulting activities.


Volume 3: Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance Essentials




New to this edition, Volume 3 covers this emerging area of internal auditing by presenting a holistic view of governance, risk management, and compliance. The volume then examines each individual concept in separate chapters. This volume also discusses the specific responsibilities internal auditors have regarding fraud and ethics. The material also defines and provides a detailed discussion of corporate social responsibility and sustainability and offers suggestions on the types of contributions internal auditors can make to this growing initiative.