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Are you questioning whether your current software delivers the results your business needs? Or are you simply seeking reassurance that your applications are operating smoothly and securely? If so, a software audit is the perfect solution to uncover what’s working, identify potential issues, and ensure your software meets all necessary standards.

To help you prepare for a software audit, we’ve outlined a comprehensive software audit checklist. While the specifics of an audit can vary depending on the project, the core principles remain consistent. Here’s what your software auditor will investigate:

1. The technical design

Your software’s technical design is reviewed to ensure it aligns with your business requirements and delivers optimal performance. This includes assessing system architecture and scalability.

2. The database design

A robust database is critical to software performance. Auditors will check for reliability, accuracy, and efficiency in how data is structured and managed.

3. Code quality

Code is the backbone of any application. Auditors evaluate whether the code follows industry standards, is well-documented, and includes proper error-handling measures to reduce risks.

4. Data access, quality and controls

Proper data management is essential for compliance and security. The audit ensures that your data is stored, accessed, and handled correctly, protecting against unauthorised access or breaches.

5. Build and delivery procedures

Your development and deployment processes are examined to ensure best practices have been followed, including methodologies such as Agile, DevOps, or Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD).

6. Compliance with industry standards and best practices

Auditors verify whether your software complies with relevant industry standards and adheres to best practices. This includes security protocols, legal requirements, and licensing agreements.

7. Documentation review

Finally, the audit assesses whether all relevant documentation—such as user guides, system manuals, and licensing agreements—is accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive.

Why a software audit checklist is essential

A software audit checklist ensures a systematic review of all critical areas of your software, helping you identify potential risks or inefficiencies. It also provides clarity and confidence in your software systems. Here’s why conducting a software audit should be part of your business processes:

• Licensing compliance: Software audits confirm your licences are valid and aligned with your agreements, helping avoid costly penalties.
• Security assurance: Regular audits uncover vulnerabilities and ensure robust security protocols are in place.
• Software optimisation: Audits can highlight areas where your software could be enhanced to align better with your business goals.
• Regulatory compliance: With regulations and standards frequently evolving, audits ensure your software stays compliant with industry requirements.