The primary objectives of engagement supervision in internal auditing, according to IIA guidance, involve several key activities: identifying engagement objectives, assigning responsibilities to individual auditors, and approving the engagement program. These steps are essential to ensure that the audit is conducted effectively and that the objectives are met.
Detailed Explanation:
IIA Standard 2340 - Engagement Supervision:
This standard outlines the responsibilities of those supervising audit engagements. Supervisors must ensure that the audit is properly planned, that objectives are clearly defined, that the right personnel are assigned, and that the engagement program is appropriate for achieving the objectives.
Key Activities in Supervision:
Identifying Engagement Objectives: This is the first step in ensuring that the audit addresses the most important risks and areas of concern. The supervisor must ensure that these objectives are clear and aligned with the organization's goals.
Assigning Responsibilities: Supervisors must ensure that tasks are allocated to auditors who have the appropriate skills and experience to carry them out effectively.
Approving the Engagement Program: The engagement program outlines the procedures and steps that will be taken to achieve the audit objectives. The supervisor's approval ensures that the program is comprehensive and aligned with the audit's goals.
IIA Practice Advisory 2340-1:
The advisory emphasizes the role of the auditor in charge in providing guidance, ensuring that objectives are met, and that the audit is conducted efficiently and effectively.
Why Not Other Options?
Option A (Enable training and development): While important, training and development are secondary objectives and not the primary focus of engagement supervision.
Option C (Training and development): Again, while important, these are supportive activities rather than the core focus of engagement supervision.
Option D (Training, development, and objectives): This option combines important activities but does not include assigning responsibilities, which is crucial in supervision.