Differences between Assessment and Audit

1) Auditors assess compliance, while assessments analyze the maturity and depth of a system

2) The audit process is a pass/fail one. Assessments are a way of grading the maturity level of the process that helps the organization plan for its future growth in its pursuit of excellence. An assessment gives the organization a sense of where they stand and what needs to be improved.

3) The audit is a very specific examination within a predefined scope. Assessment is much more holistic and broader. An assessment does not get into minute details about every element of the excellence model against which the assessment is being conducted. A big picture view is used.

4) The audit is conducted according to a set of standards. The assessment focuses on a range of best-in-class criteria.

5) The length of time for an audit varies with the size of the organization, the locations to be covered, and the allocation of manpower, while the length of time for an assessment is usually 3 or 4 months with predefined steps. Key business factors are agreed to, followed by individual assessments, and then by consensus, forming a single viewpoint for the assessee company. A site visit then follows to verify or clarify critical issues identified during assessments with company officials. Upon completion of the site visit, the assessment concludes with the submission of a final feedback report based on the data gathered.

6) As most audits are accompanied by a predefined checklist, audits do not generally require high skill on the part of the reviewer. An assessment requires high levels of maturity on the part of the reviewer. This means being open to learning, appreciating, and developing.

7) Audits pinpoint mistakes, and assessments identify what's working well for you (best practices).

8) Having the mindset of an inspector is essential for an auditor. An assessment requires a developmental coach mentality, the assessor must demonstrate the spirit of appreciative inquiry

Last but not least, while audits conclude with the submission of the report, assessments are not just about giving feedback, but are also about the learnings acquired from the assessors throughout the assessment process. As a result of feedback, what are the key points the organization remembers that helped them improve their systems? It’s about getting people engaged and having a positive impact. 

Audited vs. assessment: which is better? Thoughts?