Who typically requests an external audit?

The correct choice highlights that external customers, such as clients or stakeholders, typically request an external audit. This is driven by the need for an independent assessment of a company's quality management system, processes, and practices to ensure compliance with standards and regulations. External customers seek this assurance to confirm that the organization meets quality expectations and industry standards in its products or services.

An external audit offers a reliable evaluation of a company’s operations, which is especially relevant in industries where quality and compliance are crucial for maintaining customer trust and satisfaction. Customers may request this audit to gauge the company's performance and reliability before entering into contracts or collaborations.

In contrast, internal stakeholders such as the management team, quality control inspectors, or internal auditors may focus more on internal assessments and improvements rather than external validation. Their roles involve monitoring and refining processes but do not typically extend to the auspices of an external audit unless specifically directed by customer demand or compliance needs.