Define the term "internal control."

The term "internal control" refers to a framework of processes and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that an organization's objectives are being achieved in areas such as operations, reporting, and compliance. This definition highlights the proactive nature of internal controls in helping organizations mitigate risks, improve the efficiency of operations, ensure the reliability of financial reporting, and promote adherence to laws and regulations.

Internal controls encompass a variety of practices, including risk assessments, policies, and procedures, which together ensure that the organization operates effectively and efficiently while safeguarding its assets. The emphasis on reasonable assurance indicates that while internal controls significantly reduce risks, no system can guarantee complete elimination of all risks.

In contrast, other options do not capture the comprehensive purpose of internal controls. For instance, assessing market opportunities focuses on strategic planning rather than the internal compliance and risk management aspects, financial audits are assessments of financial accuracy typically conducted externally, and increasing customer satisfaction is more aligned with customer relationship management rather than internal governance and risk management.