International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF): Your Guide to Professional Excellence

The International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) serves as the structural framework that systematically organises authoritative guidance issued by The IIA.

As a reputable and global guidance-setting entity, The IIA stands as a dependable source for internal audit professionals worldwide, offering both mandatory and recommended guidance within the IPPF's organised structure.

What are the Global Standards for Professional Internal Audit Practice

The Standards emphasize principles and establish a structure for conducting and advancing internal auditing.

These Standards comprise obligatory stipulations, encompassing:

• Statements of basic requirements for the professional practice of internal auditing and for evaluating the effectiveness of its performance. The requirements are internationally applicable at organizational and individual levels.
• Interpretations, which clarify terms or concepts within the statements.
• Glossary terms.

It is necessary to consider both the statements and their interpretations to understand and apply the Standards correctly. The Standards employ terms that have been given specific meanings as noted in the Glossary, which is also part of the Standards.

Updated in July 2015, the Framework's integrity remains unblemished.

The latest edition of the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) guide, more commonly known as the Red Book, is available. Visit the IIA Bookstore for more information or view the IIA International Standards for Professional Internal Audit Practice.

2023: A Pivotal Year for Internal Audit Standards

In this significant year, the Global Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA Global) has rallied all its affiliates and associated organisations for a momentous endeavour. The International Internal Audit Standards Board is currently in the process of meticulously reviewing comments on the draft of the proposed Global Internal Audit Standards™.

This marks a significant stride in a multiyear initiative aimed at thoroughly revising and updating The IIA's International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF), encompassing the renowned International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.

Following a meticulous analysis of the feedback received and the subsequent revisions, the Standards Board is poised to officially unveil the new Global Internal Audit Standards™ before the close of 2023. This heralds a transformative evolution in the realm of internal audit practices and principles, reaffirming the IIA's commitment to excellence and alignment with contemporary industry demands. Stay tuned for this monumental release, as the Global Internal Audit Standards™ promise to set a new benchmark for the profession and reinforce the foundation of global internal auditing practices.

Exploring the IPPF: Understanding the Building Blocks

The IPPF is structured into the following pivotal components, essential for the professional practice of internal auditing:

1. Core Principles for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing
2. Definition of Internal Auditing
3. Code of Ethics
4. International Standards for Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (Standards)

To further bolster excellence, IIA Global issues publications of best practices and advisory guidance documents, comprising:

1. Position Papers
2. Practice Advisories
3. Practice Guides

With over 185,000 internal auditors operating within this framework, these standards have a universal reach. For in-depth insights into the framework, standards, and guidance, navigate to the IIA Global website.

Embracing Ethical Excellence: IIA Code of Ethics

At the heart of the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF), the IIA Code of Ethics is a pivotal source of authoritative guidance for the internal audit profession.

This Code delineates the principles and expectations governing the behaviour of both individuals and organizations engaged in the realm of internal auditing. Rather than prescribing specific actions, it establishes the foundational benchmarks for conduct and behavioural norms. These Core Principles collectively define the tangible effectiveness of internal audit endeavours. When all Principles seamlessly coexist and operate harmoniously, the internal audit function attains its maximum efficiency.

While the approach to these Core Principles may slightly differ among internal auditors and organizations, the undeniable truth remains that any failure to achieve these Principles signifies an internal audit activity operating below its full potential.

The Code's Core Principles:

1. Integrity
2. Objectivity
3. Confidentiality
4. Competency

The Core Principles encompass:

1. Demonstrating integrity.
2. Demonstrating competence and due professional care.
3. Maintaining objectivity and independence.
4. Aligning with the organization's strategies, objectives, and risks.
5. Possessing appropriate positioning and sufficient resourcing.
6. Ensuring quality and continuous improvement.
7. Communicating effectively.
8. Providing risk-based assurance.
9. Fostering insight, proactivity, and future orientation.
10. Encouraging organizational improvement.

These Principles collectively form the bedrock of ethical and impactful internal audit practice.

Integrity lays the foundation for trust, objectivity underscores unbiased evaluation, confidentiality respects information ownership, and competency drives skilled performance.

For any enquiries regarding these standards, please direct your questions to guidance@theiia.org.