GRCA GRC Auditor Certification Exam Question and Answers

Performance is most associated with a "measure of how well we are addressing opportunities." Performance management focuses on setting goals, monitoring progress, and evaluating outcomes to ensure that an organization is effectively taking advantage of opportunities to achieve its objectives. It involves measuring and managing activities that lead to improved efficiency, effectiveness, and innovation. By addressing opportunities, organizations can enhance their performance and create value.References:

ISO 9001:2015 - Quality management systems – Requirements

Balanced Scorecard Institute - Performance Management Framework

The dimensions of TOTAL Performance are Effectiveness, Resiliency, and Agility. Effectiveness refers to achieving the desired outcomes. Resiliency is the ability to recover from setbacks and continue operations. Agility is the capacity to adapt quickly to changes and new opportunities. These three dimensions collectively ensure that an organization can perform well under various conditions and sustain its success over time.References:

ISO 9001:2015 - Quality management systems – Requirements

COSO Enterprise Risk Management – Integrating with Strategy and Performance

When writing a complete recommendation, it is important to include specific suggestions or mandatory requirements to comply with in order to fix the problem. This ensures that the recommendation is actionable and provides clear guidance on what needs to be done to address the issue. General comments may not provide enough detail or direction for effective implementation. Clear, detailed recommendations help organizations understand the necessary steps to mitigate risks and improve controls.References:

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework

The parameters of an assessment include Scope, Criteria, and Nature of Testing. These elements define the boundaries and focus of the assessment:

Scope:Defines the areas, processes, and activities to be assessed.

Criteria:Specifies the standards, policies, and regulations against which the assessment will be conducted.

Nature of Testing:Describes the types and extent of testing procedures that will be employed to gather evidence and evaluate compliance and performance.

These parameters ensure that the assessment is well-structured, targeted, and aligned with the objectives and requirements of the organization.References:

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework

Including the personnel who perform the work being assessed in the planning process is important because they possess valuable insights and knowledge about the processes and controls in place. Their involvement helps to ensure that the assessment is accurately scoped and relevant parameters are set. They can provide context and clarify operational details, contributing to a more effective and targeted assessment. Moreover, their engagement can foster a cooperativeenvironment and facilitate smoother assessment execution.References:

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework

A QUALIFIED assurance opinion or statement indicates that the assessment encountered some limitations, and outside of those limitations, a positive or negative statement can be offered. This type of opinion acknowledges that there are constraints that affected the scope or completeness of the assessment, but within the areas that could be reviewed, the assurance provider can still offer a conclusion. It is a way to communicate the assurance provider's findings while being transparent about any limitations that were encountered.References:

IIA Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing

AICPA Auditing Standards

A written report by an assurance professional is most likely to be the most objective source of evidence. Assurance professionals are trained to conduct evaluations impartially, following standardized methodologies and best practices. Their reports are based on documented evidence and systematic analysis, ensuring a high level of objectivity and reliability compared to vocalized statements or reports by process owners, who may have biases or conflicts of interest.References:

IIA Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

The best sequence of testing is to conduct control testing first and then substantive testing. This approach ensures that the effectiveness of internal controls is evaluated before examining the details of transactions and data. By testing controls first, assurance providers can determine if controls are reliable and can potentially reduce the extent of substantive testing needed. Effective controls can provide confidence that transactions and data are accurate, reducing the need for extensive substantive testing.References:

AICPA Auditing Standards

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

Risk is defined as a measure of the desirable effect of uncertainty on objectives. According to the ISO 31000 standard, risk is "the effect of uncertainty on objectives" which can be either positive (opportunity) or negative (threat). This definition encompasses the uncertainty that can impact the achievement of goals and objectives. It highlights that risk is not just about potential losses but also about potential gains that come from taking risks.References:

ISO 31000:2018 - Risk management – Guidelines

NIST SP 800-30 Rev. 1 - Guide for Conducting Risk Assessments

Compliance is most associated with a "measure of how well we are meeting obligations." Compliance involves adhering to laws, regulations, policies, and standards that apply to an organization. It ensures that the organization is fulfilling its legal, regulatory, and ethical obligations, thereby avoiding penalties, legal issues, and reputational damage. Compliance programs include policies, procedures, training, monitoring, and audits to ensure that all obligations are consistently met.References:

ISO 19600:2014 - Compliance management systems - Guidelines

NIST SP 800-37 Rev. 2 - Risk Management Framework for Information Systems and Organizations