Which type of audit focuses on the effects of an algorithmic system?

The correct answer highlights that empirical audits are designed to assess the real-world effects of algorithmic systems. This type of audit involves observing and measuring the outcomes produced by an algorithm in practice. Empirical audits prioritize data collection and analysis of actual usage, enabling a deeper understanding of how an algorithmic system influences results in diverse scenarios.

For example, an empirical audit might investigate whether an algorithm used for hiring processes leads to gender or racial bias, or how effectively it meets its intended outcomes. By grounding the evaluation in actual results rather than theoretical or technical specifications, empirical audits can provide concrete evidence on an algorithm's impact.

In contrast, technical audits would typically assess the underlying code and functionality without focusing directly on the outcomes experienced in real-world applications. Governance audits relate more to the policies and frameworks guiding algorithmic use, and compliance audits are often about ensuring that the system complies with legal and regulatory standards. While these types of audits are essential, they do not specifically focus on the observable effects and outcomes that an empirical audit does.