What document identifies the purpose of an audit and reports the auditor's observations?

The document that identifies the purpose of an audit and reports the auditor's observations is the audit report. This essential document serves to provide a detailed account of the audit process, including the scope, methodology, and findings. It communicates the results to stakeholders, highlighting any issues noted during the audit and offering recommendations for improvement.

The purpose of an audit report includes documenting the findings, providing evidence of compliance or non-compliance, and serving as a reference for any necessary follow-up actions. It also plays a critical role in maintaining transparency and accountability in processes and operations, which is vital for ensuring quality standards are upheld in manufacturing and other industries.

While the other documents listed may serve important functions, such as summarizing findings or analyzing data, they do not encompass the comprehensive role of the audit report in detailing the purpose, observations, and conclusions drawn during the audit.