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ACI Knowledge Hub

Practical Resources for Audit Professionals

Guides, overviews, and professional development resources to support your audit career — whether you are pursuing ACI certification or maintaining your credential through CPD.

Audit Fundamentals
The Five Phases of an Effective Management System Audit

A step-by-step walkthrough of planning, document review, opening meeting, field audit, and closing — with practical tips for each phase.

8 min read Read
ISO 9001
Understanding Clause 9.2: Internal Audit Requirements Under ISO 9001:2015

Clause 9.2 sets the requirements for internal audit programmes. This article explains what auditors must verify and common non-conformances found during third-party audits.

6 min read Read
Career Development
From Internal Auditor to Lead Auditor: What Changes and What to Prepare For

Moving from conducting audits under supervision to leading an audit team is a significant step. This guide covers the competence gaps, training requirements, and mindset shift involved.

7 min read Read
ISO 27001
Auditing Information Security Controls: A Practical Checklist for ISO 27001 Auditors

Key controls to test, evidence to request, and common gaps found in ISO 27001 audits — organised by Annex A control domain.

10 min read Read
CPD
Building a CPD Record That Satisfies ACI Recertification Requirements

What counts as CPD, how to record it, and how to demonstrate continuous development in your specialist scheme — with examples of accepted activities.

5 min read Read
For Employers
How to Verify an Auditor's Certification Before Engagement

A practical guide for procurement teams, HR managers, and quality directors on how to check certification status, what to look for, and what questions to ask.

4 min read Read

More Articles Coming Soon

The ACI Knowledge Hub is growing. New guides covering ISO 14001, ISO 45001, audit report writing, and exam preparation are being added regularly.

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Professional Development

Types of CPD Recognised by ACI

ACI recognises a broad range of CPD activities. Use these to maintain your certification and develop your audit expertise.

Training Courses

Courses related to your scheme, audit methodology, or management system standards — delivered by ATPs or other recognised providers.

Webinars & Conferences

Industry events, standards body webinars, and professional conferences relevant to auditing or your certification scheme.

Writing & Research

Publishing articles, contributing to standard development, or conducting original research in your professional field.

Mentoring & Peer Review

Mentoring junior auditors, participating in peer review panels, or conducting joint audits to develop and share knowledge.

View Full CPD Requirements →