What element is crucial for ensuring that internal auditors can perform their work effectively?

Independence and objectivity are essential for internal auditors to perform their work effectively because these qualities allow auditors to evaluate processes, risks, and controls without bias or outside influence. When auditors maintain independence from those they audit, they can provide more credible and trustworthy assessments of the organization’s operations and risk management practices.

Objectivity ensures that auditors can focus on facts and evidence rather than personal feelings or relationships, which is vital for giving accurate representations of the organization's performance and effectiveness. This unbiased perspective helps to foster an environment of trust and accountability, enhancing the credibility of the audit findings and recommendations.

While access to proprietary information, strong relationships with management, and industry experience can be beneficial for internal auditors, they do not replace the fundamental necessity of independence and objectivity. Without these core principles, the effectiveness and reliability of the internal audit function could be severely compromised.