CARRYING ON A LEGACY – THE COMMON BODY OF KNOWLEDGE 2006

The Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation (IIARF) is committed to understanding how the practice of internal auditing is carried out around the world and using this knowledge to provide guidance to our more than 115,000 members.  Today, this effort is taking a monumental step forward.

The IIARF is performing an ongoing research program, entitled the Common Body of Knowledge (CBOK), which will broaden our understanding of how internal auditing is practiced around the world.  This comprehensive study will be updated every three years and will become a permanent program of The IIA Research Foundation.

What is the Common Body of Knowledge (CBOK)?

• The most important research study the IIARF has ever undertaken
• The first project funded by the William Bishop III, CIA Memorial Fund
• We envision this project to be a living legacy of Bill’s passion for internal auditing
• Bill was a tremendous supporter of internal audit research and CBOK will provide a fitting tribute to Bill’s contributions to the profession of internal auditing
• A comprehensive survey that will capture the state of the internal auditing profession throughout the world including:
• The knowledge and skills that internal auditors possess
• The varying skill and organizational levels that practice internal auditing work
• The actual duties performed by internal auditors
• The structure of internal audit organizations
• The types of industries which practice internal audit
• The regulatory environment of various countries
• CBOK will provide an understanding of the unique value-added role internal auditing has in organizations throughout the world
• This understanding will enable us to better define the future of internal auditing and ensure that it remains a vibrant and relevant contribution to organizations

• The results of CBOK will drive many crucial aspects of The IIA for the next 3 years, including:
  • Certifications and exams
  • Standards
  • Advocacy
  • Practice Advisories
  • Educational Programs
  • Educational Products
  • Publications

HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE?

• Visit the CBOK web site at www.theiia.org/CBOK and sign up to take the survey
• Encourage your co-workers and staff to take the survey when it is released
• Promote the survey within your organization, IIA chapter or affiliate and other professional groups

We anticipate the release of the survey in the third quarter of 2006.  To learn more about CBOK, view project phases, sign up to participate in the survey or keep up to date on the project’s status, visit www.theiia.org/CBOK.