Software for Compliance

As compliance requirements grow more complex, one of the most common questions we hear is: What’s the best software for managing compliance?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the categories of compliance-related software—and how they work together—can help you make informed decisions that fit your business and audit strategy.

Let’s break down the two main types of software involved in compliance programs:

General business software includes the tools and platforms you use to run your operations and manage your tech stack. Examples include:

These systems weren’t designed specifically for compliance, but they often support key elements of your compliance program by default, such as access controls, audit trails, encryption, or policy workflows.

Regardless of your chosen GRC platform, this operational software will always be part of your compliance story.

GRC platforms are built to manage governance, risk, and compliance centrally. They generally serve three primary functions:

There are also three broad types of GRC platforms, each with different strengths:

When deciding on software, we recommend completing a readiness assessment within your team or with a consultant first. That way, you can see what else is required to achieve compliance and where other software may provide return on investment.

Traditional GRC software is time-intensive to set up. Security and compliance software is expensive and limits your auditor choices. And integrated audit software ties you to that auditor, so it’s best to ensure it fits your goals upfront.

Part of that is reviewing how your existing software supports compliance independently. In many areas, these enable compliance by default, with minor adjustments, or at least provide the tools and functionality you need without procuring additional software.

Here’s an example with a common set of software, each with many alternatives playing a similar role.

AWS (Cloud Infrastructure). Out of the box, AWS offers firewalls, encryption, access controls, logging, and system hardening. Add-ons like GuardDuty, Key Management Service, AWS Shield, and Security Hub enhance monitoring and response capabilities.

GitHub (Version Control).  GitHub tracks code changes and version control by default. With added features like peer review enforcement, static code analysis, and code quality checks, it helps address secure development requirements.

Azure Active Directory (Single Sign-On).  Provides centralized access management, RBAC, segregation of duties, and provisioning controls—all essential for identity and access management.

BambooHR (HRIS).  Supports compliance with employee lifecycle documentation, including contracts, onboarding steps, policy acknowledgments, and performance reviews.

Google Workspace (Mobile Device Management).  Enables you to monitor, secure, and manage mobile devices through approval workflows, policy enforcement, email security, and remote wipe capabilities.

While these tools cover much of the technical foundation, some areas—like policies, procedures, and oversight—still require tailored, manual work to reflect your unique business environment.

Getting started with compliance software doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Our team can walk you through a readiness assessment, identify opportunities to streamline your efforts, and recommend practical, right-sized solutions for your organization.

To learn more or request a practice guide tailored to your needs, contact us.