What is the main focus of Domain 1 in internal auditing?

The main focus of Domain 1 in internal auditing is the purpose of internal auditing. This domain establishes the foundational principles and objectives that guide internal auditing practices. Understanding the purpose of internal auditing is essential, as it lays the groundwork for why auditing exists within an organization and the value it brings in terms of governance, risk management, and control processes. This purpose encompasses providing independent assurance that the organization's risk management, governance, and internal control processes are operating effectively.

In contrast, executing audit services pertains more to the methodologies and techniques employed during an audit rather than the fundamental rationale behind the auditing function itself. Internal audit management skills focus on specific competencies required to manage the audit function effectively, while performance evaluation metrics involve measuring the success and efficiency of the auditing process. None of these areas encapsulate the overarching goal of internal auditing, which is captured by the focus on its purpose.