What type of audit is designed specifically to provide assurance that activities have been performed...

Compliance audits are specifically designed to provide assurance that activities have been performed as documented. These audits verify that the organization is adhering to regulatory guidelines, internal policies, and established procedures. The goal is to ensure that processes are being followed as they are written, which helps in maintaining consistency and quality. Compliance audits can identify areas where documentation and actual practices diverge, which is crucial for continuous improvement and regulatory compliance.

References:

"The Audit Process" by David Coderre

"Compliance Auditing: A Guide for Internal Auditors" by IIA Standards and Guidance