A critical tool to collect information while conducting an audit is the Data Collection Tool. Simple checklists for auditors were determined to be insufficient. Checklist interpretation varies with auditor's experience, bias, and subject matter expertise. It was concluded that an Audit Guide should be constructed to preface subject matter expectations and to assist the auditor in obtaining information from the supplier, which can be substantiated through tangible evidence. The associated questionnaire is intended to be answered by the auditor during interviewing and data collection activities.
Space is provided to document what was observed as tangible evidence.
The tool was not designed to be all encompassing and can be expanded or contracted based on supplier product categories, service, or customer specific needs. With the Step 2 of the Process Model provisions have been designed for criteria tailoring as needed.