Compliance software is supposed aid in audits. However, small businesses may be in a difficult position: before they can set up their SOC 2 controls, they need to first install an SOC 2 system, then configure and master the intricacy of a compliance system. That raises a useful question. At what point does the device designed to cut down on compliance work turn into a initiative of its own?
CertAssist resulted from that frustration. CertAssist’s founders were familiar with compliance audits and implementations in ISO 27001 and SOC 2 frameworks. They had to deal with platforms that were packed with features and integrations while firms used spreadsheets for crucial aspects of auditing process. For smaller businesses, a less complicated SOC 2 compliance software can occasionally be the best option.
Begin with the Task that Should Be Done
Take away the software terms and the primary requirement becomes simpler to comprehend. It is vital that businesses be aware of the Trust Services Criteria. This involves establishing proper controls, obtaining evidence, keeping track of developments and documenting policies. Platforms can manage these tasks without having to connect with all cloud services or identity systems companies utilize.
Automated integrations are certainly beneficial. Automating the gathering of evidence by large organizations in an environment which is always changing can help save time. That doesn’t automatically make the same architecture necessary for SOC 2 for startups. Startups that have a compact technology environment may prefer to present evidence in person and not maintain a multitude of integrations.
The Audit and the Software Are different expenses
If companies view all compliance costs as one number, budgeting can become complicated. SOC 2 costs include more than just software. Internal staff members must devote time in preparing policies, addressing gaps in control, arranging proof as well as cooperating with auditors. The independent audit is charged its own fees as well.
Companies who are researching SOC 2 certification cost should be aware of a difference in terminology: SOC 2 produces an independent attestation report instead of an actual certification in the same meaning as ISO 27001. ISO 27001. When businesses are looking for pricing, they frequently refer to the cost as “certification cost”. Whatever language is used in the budget, software cannot substitute for the independent auditor.
Middle Ground Doesn’t Need to be A Spreadsheet
Spreadsheets are simple and easy to use But they aren’t as easy when the policies, controls, evidence, ownership and audit communication begin spreading across several files.
The alternative doesn’t need be a business platform. CertAssist integrates the SOC 2 controls on a central board, which includes editable template templates for policy and evidence along with progress management, as well as read-only auditor access. A mandatory multi-factor authentication system helps secure access to the platform. The launch price stated at $225 is and will be followed by a regular price of $375 per month or $3,999 annually.
In addition, no integration could mean less exposure
CertAssist is not apposed to connecting to the operating systems of a company. The evidence provided is not given without giving the compliance platform access to cloud or identity environments.
This option is not without its pitfalls. It is the obligation of the company to provide proof that could have been collected automatically. For a small team, however, the additional manual work could be justified in exchange for simpler installation, less software cost and less connections to third party sources.
If Complexity Solves a Problem, Buy It
In an organization that is growing that is growing, the manual collection of evidence could be inefficient. Continuous monitoring and massive integrations will pay off when you get to that point.
For now, the aim isn’t buying the most sophisticated compliance system available. It’s about getting the compliance task well-organized, provide solid evidence, and ensure that the independent audit is manageable. Software that’s well designed can make this process much easier. Implementing the compliance platform might feel more like a project rather than the preparation of the SOC 2 itself. It may be because the business doesn’t require as many tools.