Which outcome reflects a successful audit?

A report indicating compliance or areas needing improvement is the hallmark of a successful audit because it provides actionable insights that drive quality and compliance in an organization. An audit's primary purpose is to assess whether an entity is meeting its established benchmarks, standards, and regulatory requirements. The report serves as documentation of this assessment.

Successful audits not only identify where the organization complies with standards but also highlight opportunities for improvement, which are crucial for ongoing improvement efforts. By detailing both compliant areas and those needing attention, the audit report serves as a tool for management to make informed decisions about necessary changes and enhancements in processes, systems, or practices.

While positive feedback from staff, completing the audit process ahead of schedule, and high auditor satisfaction contribute to a favorable audit environment, they do not necessarily indicate that the audit's objectives were met in terms of compliance or organizational improvement. The effectiveness of an audit is best measured by the quality and usefulness of the report that results from it.