Global Learning for Operational Leaders
Classroom
15 sessions
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Online / Live
15 sessions
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Introduction
Course overview
Processes are becoming more complex; and simple audit techniques and random audit samples are not enough anymore to provide factual evidence to draw conclusions. Given this, it is only through proper data analysis and smart sampling that auditors can perform their responsibilities in an effective and efficient way.
This course develops critical skills in analyzing and interpreting data, which are essential in today's data-driven world. The course equips participants with knowledge and techniques to identify patterns, trends, and relationships in data, enabling them to make strategic decisions that benefit their organizations. Additionally, participants gain skills to confidently design and execute effective audit sampling plans that can greatly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the audit process.
What you will achieve
Learning objectives
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of data analysis techniques
- Understand the impact of data analysis on audit sampling
- Use statistical tools to analyze information, manipulate data and conduct audit sampling
- Apply different audit sampling methods to different scenarios
- Identify data anomalies and deviations in audit results to simplify the reporting process
Who should attend
Target audience
- This course is suitable for all Internal Auditors, and those involved in the internal auditing process including, but not limited to, internal controllers, risk officers, external auditors and compliance officers from all levels.
- Target Competencies
- Data mining
- Mitigating risks
- Data analysis
- Understanding trends
- Searching for anomalies
Methodology
Learning approach
- Through group exercises, case studies and real-time data bundles, participants will turn raw data into knowledge to understand patterns and identify red flags, or deviations from procedures and standards. Moreover, participants will go through several audit sampling techniques that will help them develop representative and efficient sample sizes that can be applied in their day-to-day missions.
Complete course outline
Course outline and key learning areas
The timings provided are estimates and may vary depending on the number of participants and the discussions taking place during the sessions. They are indicative only and do not constitute a binding commitment.
Module 1
Introduction to data analysis
- Definition and history
- Current technology, the growing availability of data, and increasing challenges
- The impact of vast volumes of data
- Understanding when and how to corroborate data
- Rethinking the value and usage of data
- Getting real value from the data
Module 2
The different sampling methods
- Sampling and non-sampling risks
- Statistical and non-statistical sampling
- Random sample vs. population census
- Sampling method vs. sample size
Module 3
Benefits and risks of sampling techniques such as
- Random sampling
- Stratified sampling
- Interval sampling
- Subjective sampling
- Block sampling
- Systematic sampling
- Dollar unit sampling
- Stop or go sampling
Module 4
Comparison and benchmarking
- Practice Advisory 2320
- Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) recommendations and publications
- Performance benchmarking
- The evolution of big data
- Evaluating the effectiveness of new data analysis techniques
- Peer benchmarking
Module 5
Data mining vs. audit sampling
- Different data analysis techniques and selecting the sample
- Employing methods for adjusting sampling size
- Simple excel functions and queries to perform analyses
- Incorporating fraud red flags in the audit sampling
- Practice combining results for different scenarios
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What does Data Analysis for Internal Auditing cover?
This course covers Data Management and Business Intelligence through a structured five-day outline focused on practical application, discussion, and implementation planning.
When is the next available session?
The next scheduled session starts on 12 - 16 October 2026. See the course schedules section for the available dates and delivery formats.
Who should attend this course?
This course is suitable for all Internal Auditors, and those involved in the internal auditing process including, but not limited to, internal controllers, risk officers, external auditors and compliance officers from all levels., Target Competencies, Data mining
Is bilingual course delivery available?
Yes. All course materials and presentations are provided in English, while bilingual explanation and discussion support may be available depending on the selected location and trainer availability. For example, when attending a course in Istanbul, you may request a Turkish-speaking trainer to explain the English course content in Turkish. Arabic explanation support may also be requested at this location. Other languages are available in selected cities. You can choose your preferred language support as an optional preference during registration.
How can I register for a session?
Use any Register button next to the available course dates to open the participant registration page and submit your booking request for the selected session.
Is this course available online as well as classroom-based?
Check the course schedules section for currently published classroom and Online / Live sessions.
Where are classroom sessions delivered?
Current classroom venues include Rome, Munich, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Vienna, Barcelona, Madrid, Cape Town.
How long is the training programme?
The programme runs for five days, with up to five training hours per day, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Each programme includes a total of 25 training hours.
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