If you’re an auditor you’re likely to be asked at some point you’ll be required to conduct an audit of technology. Although it may seem like another task to add to your to-do list of tasks, a tech audit is a critical step to ensure that your clients are in good working order and aligns with business goals.

Tech audits can take on many different types. They can provide a comprehensive view of all the technologies employed by businesses or focus on specific areas. In general, an audit of technology involves capturing each of the technologies used and evaluating their needs, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. This can be a difficult task, especially in large organizations that have dozens that site of different applications.

A tech audit is also a good way to determine whether an organization is adhering to the rules and guidelines of the industry or if there are any ways to save money. It can also help ensure that employees receive training on the correct and safe use of technology within the company.

While the American public’s abysmal cyber-hygiene is a problem for everyone, it’s a larger issue for businesses, who must ensure their systems are up to date in order to protect themselves from data breaches, save money and deliver the best possible customer experience. An annual tech audit could be the key to staying ahead of the curve and avoiding costly failures. It can make the difference between a business performing at its best and one struggling to stay in business.