This paper introduces implementation experiences on the ISO/IEC 17799 standard. The early implementation phase showed that there was resistance to change. The study revealed that lack of information was the root cause on that. Solution for this problem is proactive communications and use of internal advocates. All interviewees shared the same view that the ISO/IEC 17799 fits well with the exist...

We examine indicators of audit quality (as measured by abnormal accruals, the likelihood of reporting a profit and the likelihood of issuing modified audit opinions) for a sample of companies from 56 countries with non-US auditors during 2002-2011. For US-listed companies with non-US auditors, we find the audit quality to be higher after the non-US auditor is PCAOB-inspected. Further, in a samp...

Industrial energy programs such as energy audit programs and Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) are one of the most common means of promoting energy efficiency in industry. As a result of the European Energy End-Use Efficiency and Energy Services Directive from 2006, the Swedish Government Bill proposed a national energy program towards industrial smalland medium-sized enterprises using more than 500 ...

Prescribing errors are the most common type of medical errors and can result in harm particularly in young children. Doctors were enrolled in a programme of written assessment in prescribing skills and individualized feedback. Pharmacists audited the impact. The setting was the paediatric wards and neonatal unit of a District General Hospital. 16 doctors were tested and received feedback. A tot...

Clinical audits are an essential part of the cycle designed to ensure that patients receive the best quality of care. By measuring the care delivered against established best practice standards, it becomes possible to identify shortcomings and to plan targeted strategies and processes for continuous improvement. The success of a clinical audit depends upon defined goals, motivation of stakehold...

BACKGROUND Audits of blood transfusion demonstrate around 20% transfusions are outside national recommendations and guidelines. Audit and feedback is a widely used quality improvement intervention but effects on clinical practice are variable, suggesting potential for enhancement. Behavioural theory, theoretical frameworks of behaviour change and behaviour change techniques provide systematic p...

This paper presents a case study in carrying out an audit of a large, softwareintensive system. We discuss our experience in structuring the team for obtaining maximum effectiveness under a short deadline. We also discuss the goals of an audit, the methods of gathering and assimilating information, and specific lines of inquiry to be followed. We present observations on our approach in light of...

BACKGROUND Audit and feedback is effective in improving the quality of care. However, methods and results of international studies are heterogeneous, and studies have been criticized for a lack of systematic use of theory. In TREC (Translating Research in Elder Care), a longitudinal health services research program, we collect comprehensive data from care providers and residents in Canadian nur...