When auditing a project, an organization can choose to use outside or inside auditors. While inside auditors are familiar with the company and projects, it is often better for an organization to get an outside auditor. One of the most important elements to the selection of a good auditor is that they are independent. This independence helps reduce bias and ensure timely and accurate information is presented to management (Meredith, Shafer and Mantel 2017, 468). Having an outside auditor ensures their independence from the project team. Open dialog and contact with project members is also an important element for an audit. Having an outside auditor ensures minimal interpersonal conflicts from past interactions, project rivalries, or political tension (Meredith, Shafer and Mantel 2017, 473-474). The use of outside auditors can also ensure that the auditor and their credentials are respected by the project team (Meredith, Shafer and Mantel 2017, 476). While processes that involve human components are often complex and difficult, utilizing an outside auditor for project audits can help reduce some of the complex issues that may arise (Meredith, Shafer and Mantel 2017, 476).

Author: Logan Callen

References

Meredith, Jack R., Scott M. Shafer, and Samuel J. Mantel. 2017. Project Management: A Strategic Managerial Approach. 10th ed. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons. ISBN-13: 9781119369097.