What is the main purpose of audits in a management system?

Audits in a management system primarily focus on evaluating and improving effectiveness. This process involves systematically reviewing the management system to determine how well it is functioning in achieving its objectives, including adherence to policies and procedures, and how effectively it manages risks.

By assessing the performance of the system, audits provide insights into areas that may require improvement, enabling organizations to refine their processes, enhance performance, and better meet their goals. The results of an audit can lead to changes that optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve safety, thereby bolstering overall effectiveness.

While other elements like assigning responsibilities, setting organizational goals, and ensuring regulatory compliance are important aspects of a management system, they do not capture the primary purpose of audits, which is centered around evaluation and enhancement of the system's overall effectiveness.