One of the primary benefits of a sophisticated GRC platform is automating many of the routine manual tasks that used to be part of compliance. When done correctly, automations can significantly reduce both the hands-on time and the number of errors that come along with manual processes.
Look for a platform that builds in continuous monitoring of controls automatically. A good solution should leverage data and integrations to check for and anticipate routine compliance tasks—and, when possible, automate them. For example, one of the most traditionally burdensome tasks is manually collecting and cross-mapping evidence to controls across frameworks. As a key GRC automation, you can now ensure that evidence is there when you need it without requiring duplication of work.
Another benefit of a quality GRC solution is automating the most time-consuming work of user access reviews. Access and data misuse directly caused 15% of data breaches in 2019, and yet many companies struggle to stay on top of reviews when roles shift and people are continuously entering and exiting. A timetable for reviews leaves stretches of time when data is potentially exposed. Automating reviews can give you instant visibility into access issues and alert you to them for quick remediation.
Automations can also reduce the manual work required to act ahead and find problems before it’s too late. Based on your custom criteria, a GRC solution should be able to identify and flag issues, create workflows to address them, and notify stakeholders, allowing your team to be proactive instead of reactive in issue resolution.
