An auditor notices that an organization frequently changes staff without appropriate documentation. What risk does this pose?

The choice of potential gaps in knowledge transfer for critical business operations is significant in this scenario because frequent staff changes without appropriate documentation can lead to a breakdown in the continuity of knowledge. When employees leave an organization or change roles, especially in critical positions, there is a risk that crucial information about processes, protocols, and operational insights is lost if not properly documented and communicated to the remaining or new staff.

This knowledge transfer is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and ensuring that business processes are carried out seamlessly. If knowledge is not adequately passed on, the organization may encounter challenges in executing tasks effectively, which can impact the overall performance and potentially jeopardize business functions.

The other options, while they may be relevant in certain contexts, do not directly address the primary concern associated with the absence of documentation relating to staff turnover. Unauthorized access, slower response times, and software release failures are also risks tied to workforce changes, but they stem from different underlying issues. The core concern in this case is the lack of knowledge continuity, which is critical for maintaining effective operations within the organization.