What's New: Learn how the new IPPF is different
International Professional Practices Framework
A trustworthy, global guidance-setting body, The IIA provides for internal audit professionals all around the world authoritative guidance organized in the International Professional Practices Framework as mandatory and strongly recommended guidance.
| Mandatory Guidance Conformance with the principles set forth in mandatory guidance is required and essential for the professional practice of internal auditing. Mandatory guidance is developed following an established due diligence process, which includes a period of public exposure for stakeholder input. The three mandatory elements of the IPPF are the Definition of Internal Auditing, the Code of Ethics, and the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (Standards). | |
| Element | Definition |
| Definition | The Definition of Internal Auditing states the fundamental purpose, nature, and scope of internal auditing. |
| Code of Ethics | The Code of Ethics states the principles and expectations governing behavior of individuals and organizations in the conduct of internal auditing. It describes the minimum requirements for conduct, and behavioral expectations rather than specific activities. |
Standards are principle-focused and provide a framework for performing and promoting internal auditing. The Standards are mandatory requirements consisting of:
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 that are included in the Glossary. | |
| Strongly Recommended Guidance Strongly recommended guidance is endorsed by The IIA through a formal approval processes. It describes practices for effective implementation of The IIA's Definition of Internal Auditing, Code of Ethics, and Standards. The three strongly recommended elements of the IPPF are Position Papers, Practice Advisories, and Practice Guides. | |
| Element | Definition |
| Position Papers | Position Papers assist a wide range of interested parties, including those not in the internal audit profession, in understanding significant governance, risk, or control issues and delineating related roles and responsibilities of internal auditing. |
| Practice Advisories | Practice Advisories assist internal auditors in applying the Definition of Internal Auditing, the Code of Ethics, and the Standards and promoting good practices. Practice Advisories address internal auditing's approach, methodologies, and consideration, but not detail processes or procedures. They include practices relating to: international, country, or industry-specific issues; specific types of engagements; and legal or regulatory issues. |
| Practice Guides | Practice Guides provide detailed guidance for conducting internal audit activities. They include detailed processes and procedures, such as tools and techniques, programs, and step-by-step approaches, as well as examples of deliverables. |