6 Top Tips for a smooth audit (newspapers and magazines)

The word audit' can be unnerving to some, but with a bit of preparation the process can be straightforward and even stress-free!

Whether you're responsible for a newspaper or magazine ABC audit, our Audit Director Mike Saunders shares his top tips for a more relaxing and efficient audit experience:

Be prepared - Take a moment to review the relevant reporting standards on our website for the circulation categories you intend to claim. This will help you understand the key requirements and what to expect ahead of time. ABC staff are on hand to help with any questions you may have - just call our audit hotline on 01442 200770 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. -- .

Focus on what's most important - If you're an existing member, it's worth reviewing the Management Letter and Summary of Recommendation documents from your previous audit. This will help you focus your attention on any highlighted areas that could lead to significant or material problems at the next audit if left unresolved.

Keep records up to date - We recommend retaining a record of circulation and distribution numbers on an issue by issue basis as the audit period progresses. It's much easier to submit this information through our returns system when its to hand rather than trying to collate the numbers at the end of a reporting period. Similarly, collecting audit trail records on an issue by issue basis for the circulation categories you intend to claim will make preparing for the audit much easier. Your auditor will request things like print & distribution records and net sales reports in the records required' document during the planning phase of the audit.

Keep us in the loop - Notify us in advance of any intention to claim either new digital copies or free distribution copies, as both of these require a review to ensure compliance. They may also require additional testing that can only be completed during the reporting period.

Know your deadline - Familiarise yourself with our data submission deadlines and aim to submit though our online returns system in time for your title's reporting period. The system will send out automatic reminders to help with this - so remember to keep it up to date with any contact changes.

Remember the mailing list - Where relevant, aim to submit an audit issue' mailing list file to us ideally with or as soon as possible after the return is submitted.

Some of these steps are quite small, particularly if they're ones you carry out over time. But the great thing is they'll help us to plan, schedule and complete your audit promptly - meaning less disruption to you and more time to get on with everything else on your to do list!

If you have any questions or would like to enquire about an audit, please contact Andy Flint, Head of Business Development, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. -- or on 07775 630333

LINK:	https://www.abc.org.uk/newslink/119-industry-voices/997-6-top-tips-for...
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