1. Introduction to the Tool/Technique
Infographics are visual tools that combine data, graphics, and concise storytelling to present complex information in a simple, engaging way. In internal audit, infographics help bridge the gap between technical findings and executive understanding. Unlike dashboards, which are data-heavy, infographics are designed to communicate a specific message clearly and memorably—ideal for updates to the CEO or stakeholders like ACME’s Liora who need clarity, not clutter.
Key uses in audit reporting:
Summarizing audit results at a glance
Highlighting critical risks or trends
Making reports visually appealing and reader-friendly
2. Fictitious Dataset
For this episode, internal auditor Auren compiled data from five audit areas:
| Audit Area | Status | Findings | Resolved (%) | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Procurement | In Progress | 6 | 50% | High |
| Contract Management | Completed | 5 | 100% | Medium |
| Inventory | Completed | 4 | 100% | Low |
| Payments | In Progress | 5 | 60% | Medium |
| Compliance | Not Started | 0 | 0% | Low |
This data forms the backbone of a high-impact infographic shared with the board.
3. Practical Template + Real-Life Application
Upon reading the Disclaimer, a reader may click the link below to 👉 Download the Excel Infographic Template for ACME:
T&Ts Series F, Internal Audit, Reporting & Communication, Episode F4 — Infographics
Template Overview:
Columns for status, findings, resolution rate, and risk level
Designed in Excel for maximum accessibility and customization
Can be copied into PowerPoint or Canva for a polished final graphic
Real-Life Application:
When presenting to the Audit Committee, Auren created a one-page infographic titled “Audit Progress Snapshot – Q2”. Using the Excel data:
A pie chart displayed audit status (e.g., 40% completed, 40% in progress, 20% not started)
Color-coded icons showed risk levels by audit area (red for high, amber for medium, green for low)
A bar graph compared findings vs. resolved percentage
Aven, the Project Manager, found it much easier to act on Procurement’s high-risk status after seeing it visualized. Meanwhile, Liora, the CEO, appreciated how quickly she could digest the information.
The result? The infographic became a standing item in all future internal audit reporting.