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Global Knowledge Brief from The IIA Elegant Alignment: ISO Guidance and the Three Lines Model

October 1, 2021

The Institute of Internal Auditors’ (IIA) latest Global Knowledge Brief, “Elegant Alignment: ISO Guidance and the Three Lines Model,” is an exploration in collaboration.

The IIA participated closely in the development of the International Standards Organization’s (ISO) latest guidance (ISO 37000 Governance of organizations — Guidance). This robust new guidance and The IIA’s Three Lines Model — two accounts of governance — are closely aligned, and the Three Lines Model fits elegantly alongside the more detailed and systems-oriented ISO guidance.

Key findings show that the roles in the Three Lines Model are directly reflected in ISO 37000:

  • First line role – the board should undertake direct verifications.
  • Second line role – the board should seek direct reports from risk management, compliance management and other control functions.
  • Third line role – the board should obtain reports from internal audit as an independent provider of assurance.

Download “Elegant Alignment: ISO Guidance and the Three Lines Model” today.