The technical audit is a powerful tool for gathering and analysing data critical for strategic decision making. To introduce the approach to local manufacturing SMEs a programme of technical audits has been carried out by undergraduates at the University of Sheffield, UK. This paper describes the aims of technical audits and some of the methodologies that exist for carrying them out. The general format of the approach taken at Sheffield is detailed and a practical application of this audit methodology within a cutlery manufacturer is discussed. The authors conclude with a summary of the benefits of the audit programme relevant to the companies, the University and the undergraduates involved.
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