How do you write ISO 37001 audit findings and nonconformity reports?

Writing audit findings and nonconformity reports is part of closing the audit, and the course dedicates Day 4 to drafting findings, documenting nonconformities, and performing documentation and quality review. The goal is to produce outputs that are traceable, defensible, and usable for corrective actions.A useful audit finding connects three elements: the relevant requirement, the observed evidence, and the conclusion. Evidence should be specific and verifiable. If the evidence is weak, the finding becomes arguable, and the audit result loses credibility. Evidence-based auditing, which is covered in the program, supports this discipline by requiring clear linkage between facts and requirements.Nonconformity reports should avoid ambiguity. They should describe what requirement was not met, where the problem was observed, and what evidence demonstrates the gap. This makes it possible for the auditee to build an action plan that addresses the real issue rather than a symptom. The course also includes evaluation of action plans by the auditor, which depends on having a clear nonconformity statement and a clear expectation of what will be reviewed in follow-up.Quality review matters because report clarity is part of audit professionalism. The agenda includes audit documentation and quality review before closing the audit, which suggests checking for consistency, completeness, and correct use of audit language. This is also where the audit team ensures the report aligns with the agreed scope and that conclusions reflect the evidence collected during stage 2 activities.Finally, findings should support audit program management. When findings are written consistently across audits, trend analysis and continual improvement become possible. That is why the course includes “beyond the initial audit” and managing an internal audit program as part of the closing-day scope.