Small Steps, Big Impact: The Path to Smart GRC Automation
Manual labor is often seen as a grueling necessity, yet there's an undeniable value in enduring this discomfort, if only momentarily. The frustration stemming from manual tasks isn't merely a sign of inefficiency; it signals a deeper understanding that there exists a more effective method awaiting discovery. It's a journey of transformation, where the mundane becomes the catalyst for innovation.
In the sphere of Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), this transition towards efficiency is epitomized through automation. The journey of automation, however, isn't a straightforward leap from manual drudgery to seamless efficiency. It’s an iterative process of understanding, refining, and finally, implementing solutions that truly align with an organization's unique needs and challenges.
Reflecting on a conversation with Chris Honda from the start of 2024, a crucial insight was shared that resonates with every GRC professional: the essence of being 'technical' is contextually bound. In GRC, 'technical' encompasses the meticulous organization of data to bolster assurance and inform pivotal business decisions. This requires an analytical mindset, capable of navigating through diverse policies, processes, and systems to identify, prioritize, and mitigate risks effectively. The aim is to transcend traditional boundaries of technical competence, recognizing that the realm of GRC is enriched by a broader spectrum of skills and insights.
The allure of automation in the industry is undeniable. The push towards automating as many processes as possible is seen as a panacea for the myriad challenges faced by GRC professionals. However, equating automation with a mere subscription to a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution is a narrow perspective that can lead to missed opportunities. True value lies in enduring the discomfort of manual processes, at least initially, to gain an intimate understanding of the workflows that underpin your organization's operations. This deep dive into the mechanics of manual processes isn't a step backward but a strategic pause, ensuring that when automation is introduced, it's done with precision and purpose.
At Segment, this philosophy guided the evolution of our approach to automation, particularly in the development of a trust center. The journey began with a manual handling of customer security requests, a foundational step that allowed us to understand the nature and frequency of inquiries fully. By gradually introducing solutions, from a dedicated Slack channel to a formalized JIRA project, each step was informed by the insights gained from the previous, manual interactions. This iterative process not only optimized our workflows but also ensured that when it was time to consider a SaaS solution, the decision was informed by a comprehensive understanding of our needs and the specific features that would address them.
This narrative underscores a broader principle applicable to any GRC initiative: manual work, with all its inherent frustrations, offers a unique opportunity to redefine what better looks like. It encourages a mindset that values incremental improvements, recognizing that each step towards automation is part of a larger journey towards operational excellence.
As we navigate the complexities of GRC, let's embrace the manual labor not as an end but as a beginning—a stepping stone towards identifying and implementing automation solutions that are not just efficient but transformative. Remember, the path from manual toil to automation is not just about upgrading tools but about evolving our understanding of the processes that drive our businesses forward. Let this be something to consider as we strive for a future where manual effort is minimized, and innovation thrives.
