This 7th edition builds on Sawyer s legacy by looking at internal auditing from a business perspective. It is organized to show what chief audit executives need to know to develop the ideal internal audit function and what internal auditors need to know to deliver current internal audit services and products. Larry B. Sawyer was a visionary and a leader of the internal audit profession. When the first version of Sawyer's was published in 1973, it was viewed by many as a much-needed, up-to-date reference guide to all things internal audit. Sawyer s insights and principles offered guidance to countless internal auditors and helped to shape the profession for many years. In this 7th edition, 10 authors and thought leaders within the internal audit profession tackle the challenge of what comes next for the profession. What are the opportunities to grow the most value? What emerging risks face the profession? How can this version of Sawyer's best help chief audit executives (CAEs) and internal auditors in considering today s practices and planning for the future? How can internal audit stakeholders better see the value they get from internal audit? This new edition is organized more practically around what CAEs need to know to develop the ideal internal audit function and what internal auditors need to know to deliver current internal audit services and products. Lawrence B. Sawyer (1911 -2002) spent 45 years in the profession of internal auditing. His perspective through books and publications guided our young internal audit industry. Even today, his original 10 commandments remain relevant (know the objectives, controls, standards, population, facts, causes, effects, people, how to communicate, and modern methods). We honor Larry through continuing to apply his name to the best resource for internal audit knowledge. In this 7th edition, we offer a transformative update that reflects growing needs in the internal audit industry. This edition: Is the resource; drawing out The IIA's endorsed resources and eliminating overlap Is relevant to a wider audience by presenting the business perspective of internal audit: setting up an internal audit shop and delivering internal audit services Reflects the evolving foundation for the internal audit of tomorrow Addresses the position and place of internal audit and opportunities/risks to our industry Modern internal auditors must have not only technical knowledge and insight but also the state of mind and executive presence necessary to operate in today s complex business world. Considered the gold standard of the profession, Sawyer s reflects the evolving foundation of internal auditing and addresses the opportunities and risks facing the industry. It is an indispensable tool for every internal auditor.