Is it true that the auditor doesn't need to know the location of the records but instead must ask the auditee to present them?

The assertion that the auditor doesn't need to know the location of the records and can rely on the auditee to present them is aligned with the principles of the audit process outlined in ISO 9001. The role of the auditor is to gather evidence regarding the effectiveness of the Quality Management System (QMS) through observation and review of documentation.

Auditors are trained to focus on the quality and relevance of the information rather than the specific logistics of where it's kept. This approach encourages a collaborative environment where the auditee can assist in providing the needed records without the auditor getting bogged down in specific procedural details that might not be relevant to the audit findings.

In practice, it is often more efficient for the auditee to present the information as needed during the audit, allowing the auditor to assess compliance and effectiveness based on the material provided, rather than spending time seeking out records independently. This philosophy encourages a more efficient and cooperative auditing process, fostering better communication between the auditor and the auditee.