Final answer:
The objective of an operational audit is to make recommendations for improving a company's operations to achieve its objectives, involving evaluating systems and processes, rather than focusing solely on financial records. Option fourth is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of an operational audit is to evaluate an organization's operations with the goal of improving efficiency and effectiveness. When examining this question, it is important to adopt an objective stance, excluding bias or personal feelings, and to focus on the purpose behind writing an audit report.
Among the multiple-choice options provided, the correct answer is that a typical objective of an operational audit is to make recommendations for achieving company objectives. Unlike financial audits, which focus on the accuracy of financial statements, operational audits are more concerned with the company's operational aspects and how they can be improved. This involves assessing the reliability and effectiveness of internal controls, processes, and procedures to ensure that the company's operational objectives are being met efficiently.
To elaborate, an operational auditor will evaluate the systems and processes of a company, compare them against best practices or company goals, and use statistics and other factual information as evidence. Their report may include causes and effects, comparisons and contrasts, and problem-solving recommendations, making it a multifaceted document meant to aid the company's management in improving operations and pursuing strategic objectives.