9 Best Compliance Workflow Automation Tools 2024

published on 28 September 2024

Compliance workflow automation tools are transforming how businesses handle regulations in 2024. Here's a quick rundown of the top 9 tools:

  1. Cflow: No-code automation with visual workflow builder
  2. Centraleyes: SaaS cyber risk platform with automated workflows
  3. ServiceNow: GRC module with real-time dashboards
  4. RSA Archer: Customizable GRC solution for large enterprises
  5. MetricStream: AI-powered compliance management for complex needs
  6. LogicManager: GRC solution with task automation for all business sizes
  7. ZenGRC: Cloud-based platform with customizable templates
  8. AuditBoard: Cloud platform with AI assistance for audits and risk management
  9. OneTrust: Compliance automation covering 40+ frameworks

Quick Comparison:

Tool Key Feature Best For Price Range
Cflow Visual workflow builder All business sizes Not specified
Centraleyes Smart questionnaires Cyber risk management Not specified
ServiceNow Real-time dashboards Large enterprises High
RSA Archer High customization Complex compliance needs $30,000-$50,000+
MetricStream AI-powered insights Banking, healthcare, telecom $75,000+/year
LogicManager Risk-based approach All business sizes $10,000+/year
ZenGRC User-friendly interface Small to large businesses Not public
AuditBoard AI-assisted analysis Fortune 500 companies Not specified
OneTrust 40+ compliance frameworks Data-focused companies From $30/month

These tools can cut compliance task time by up to 90%, reduce errors, and save costs. Choose based on your specific needs, budget, and company size.

What is compliance workflow automation?

Compliance workflow automation uses tech to make following rules easier. It's about swapping slow, manual tasks for fast, digital ones.

Here's what it does:

  • Watches your systems
  • Tracks rule changes
  • Gathers data
  • Enforces policies

The result? Companies hit compliance goals WAY faster. Some even cut prep time in half.

Take Clarifire. They used automation for three security audits and BAM! 50% less prep time.

But speed's not the only perk. You also get:

  1. Less risk
  2. Fewer mistakes
  3. Money saved
  4. Real-time updates
  5. Better data handling

Let's break it down:

"Automation ensures consistent policy application, reducing the chance of costly mistakes."

It cuts human error, saves time (and cash), gives instant updates, and makes data easier to manage.

Here's the kicker: many companies aren't using it. A 2020 study found only 28% of real estate execs used more than one automation tool.

That's a BIG opportunity. As rules get tougher and fines get bigger, automation gives you an edge.

Want to start? Do this:

  1. Know your industry's rules
  2. Check your current process
  3. Pick tools that fit YOUR needs

How to choose compliance automation tools

Picking the right compliance automation tool can make or break your workflow. Here's how to choose:

  1. Know your needs

List your specific compliance requirements. Are you dealing with GDPR, HIPAA, or ISO standards? Each industry has its own rules.

  1. Look for key features

Must-haves include:

  • Integration with existing systems
  • Scalability
  • Real-time monitoring
  • Comprehensive reporting
  1. Check automation capabilities

A good system can cut compliance task time from 100+ hours to just 10-15 hours.

  1. Prioritize user-friendliness

A clunky interface leads to mistakes. Pick a tool with an intuitive design.

  1. Assess customization options

Look for software that lets you tweak rules without calling IT.

  1. Don't skimp on security

Ensure the tool offers:

  • Data encryption
  • Regular security audits
  • Strict access controls
  1. Compare costs and value

Will it save you money on fines and labor in the long run?

  1. Test before you commit

Use free trials to see how the tool fits your workflow.

Cflow

Cflow

Cflow is a no-code workflow automation tool that makes compliance management a breeze. It's perfect for businesses of all sizes, thanks to its easy-to-use interface.

Here's what Cflow brings to the table:

  • Visual workflow builder
  • Pre-built templates
  • SLA and escalation management
  • Integration with 1000+ apps
  • Cloud or on-premise options

Cflow keeps you compliant by:

  1. Giving clear instructions
  2. Sending reminders
  3. Alerting about tasks
  4. Tracking everything on a dashboard

Real estate pros, listen up: Cflow's got your back. No coding needed, so you can adapt to new rules fast.

Feature What it does
Custom forms Fit your specific needs
Process tracking Spot and fix bottlenecks
Approval automation Speed up decisions
OCR Less manual data entry
Data encryption Keep sensitive info safe

Cflow stands out by being user-friendly and customizable. It centralizes your compliance work and automates the boring stuff. The result? Less risk, more time, and saved resources.

2. Centraleyes

Centraleyes

Centraleyes is a SaaS cyber risk platform that simplifies compliance management and risk assessment. It's built to cut through the complexity of GRC tasks.

Here's what Centraleyes brings to the table:

  • Automated workflows and smart questionnaires
  • Data feeds that do the heavy lifting
  • Risk management for both internal and third-party risks
  • 100+ integrated frameworks for risk and compliance

The platform's dashboard is like a control center. It lets you size up, sort, and prioritize hundreds of vendors. Third-party risk management? Handled.

Centraleyes says it slashes data collection time by 90%. How? Pre-loaded questionnaires and workflows that run on autopilot. If you're looking to speed up compliance, that's a big deal.

Want to make the platform your own? Centraleyes lets you build custom frameworks. Your unique compliance needs? Covered.

Real-time reporting is another ace up Centraleyes' sleeve. It churns out fresh reports and dashboards automatically. Visualize and share insights on the fly.

Feature What It Does
Automated workflows Cuts manual tasks
Smart questionnaires Speeds up data gathering
Custom frameworks Fits your specific needs
Real-time reporting Helps quick decision-making
Third-party risk management Keeps vendors in check

Users seem to dig Centraleyes. Here's what Jennifer Habshush, a GRC Specialist, had to say:

"Using the Centraleyes platform helped us to significantly cut down the time we used to spend running risk assessments. The features in the platform, such as the risk register, reporting dashboards and remediation center, help guide us in better allocating our resources and making decisions."

Ready to ditch spreadsheets and manual processes? Centraleyes promises quick setup. You could be automating your compliance workflows in just days.

3. ServiceNow

ServiceNow

ServiceNow's GRC module is a top pick for compliance workflow automation. It's a one-stop shop that plays nice with your existing systems, giving you a clear picture of your compliance efforts.

Here's what ServiceNow GRC brings to the table:

  • Automated risk checks
  • Real-time dashboards
  • Central policy hub
  • Smoother audits

But here's the kicker: ServiceNow GRC is a money-saver. Users report an 80% drop in audit costs. How? By cutting out manual tasks and boosting efficiency.

ServiceNow's compliance automation game plan:

1. Always on guard

It spots control issues as they pop up, so you can fix them fast.

2. Part of the daily grind

By weaving compliance into everyday work, it builds a culture where everyone's on board.

3. Crystal ball included

It uses data to see compliance issues coming before they hit.

Now, it's not all roses. Setting up can be a bit of a headache, and it might be too pricey for smaller outfits.

But for big players with complex compliance needs? It's a game-changer. A global bank that jumped on board saw instant improvements in risk assessment speed and decision-making.

Pros Cons
Slashes audit costs by 80% Tricky to set up
Real-time compliance insights Can be expensive for small businesses
Automates risk checks Might take time to learn
Plays well with existing systems

Users seem to dig it:

  • G2: 4.3/5
  • Capterra: 4.5/5

These scores show that folks are happy, especially with the automation and support team.

In a world where compliance rules change faster than the weather, ServiceNow GRC helps businesses stay on top of their game without breaking a sweat.

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4. RSA Archer

RSA Archer

RSA Archer is a heavy-hitter in the GRC world. It's built for big companies with complex compliance needs.

What's RSA Archer all about?

  • Customize without coding
  • Tackle risks head-on
  • Map to regulations like HIPAA and GDPR
  • Keep all your compliance data in one spot

Here's how RSA Archer automates compliance:

1. Breaks down silos

No more scattered data. Everything's in one place, so teams work smarter.

2. Handles the boring stuff

Policy updates? Control testing? Reporting? RSA Archer's got it covered.

3. Gives real-time insights

Spot trends fast and make quick decisions with powerful analytics.

But it's not perfect. Let's break it down:

Pros Cons
Wide GRC features Outdated interface
Highly customizable Weak keyword search
Detailed dashboards Expensive for small firms
Fine-tuned access control

Price tag? Starts at $30,000 to $50,000 per risk area. It's not cheap, but for big companies with complex needs, it can be worth it.

Users love RSA Archer's depth, but it's not easy to learn. It's like a Swiss Army knife for compliance - lots of tools, but you need to know how to use them.

If you're a big company ready to level up your compliance game, RSA Archer might be your answer. Just be ready to invest time and money to get the most out of it.

5. MetricStream

MetricStream

MetricStream is a heavy-duty compliance management platform for big companies with complex regulatory needs. It's popular in industries like banking, healthcare, and telecom.

What does MetricStream offer?

  • One place for all your data
  • Automated control checks
  • Real-time compliance tracking
  • Advanced reports and analytics

Here's how it streamlines compliance:

1. Cuts down manual work

Users report big improvements:

  • 90% less time on compliance tasks
  • 50% fewer compliance issues
  • 300% more compliance monitoring coverage

2. Spots risks early

AI helps catch potential problems before they blow up.

3. Connects the dots

It links regulations, risks, policies, and controls. This helps close gaps and avoid doing the same work twice.

Quick pros and cons:

Pros Cons
Full GRC features Tricky to set up
AI-powered insights Takes time to learn
Strong reporting Expensive
Works for big companies Too much for small businesses

Price? Starts at $75,000 per year. It's pricey, but can pay off for companies dealing with lots of regulations.

Users love how deep MetricStream goes, but be ready to learn. It's like flying a jumbo jet - powerful, but not simple.

If you're a big company wanting to step up your compliance game, MetricStream might be your answer. Just make sure you've got the budget and people to make it work.

6. LogicManager

LogicManager

LogicManager is a GRC solution that streamlines compliance workflows for businesses of all sizes. Here's what it offers:

  • Central data hub
  • Task automation
  • Risk-based approach
  • Pre-built libraries

LogicManager excels in:

1. Cutting manual work

It automates compliance tasks, reducing spreadsheet and email overload.

2. Staying current

The system alerts you to regulatory changes and creates tasks accordingly.

3. Clear reporting

Built-in reports and dashboards simplify updates for boards and auditors.

Pros Cons
Suits all company sizes $10,000+ annual cost
Task automation Learning curve
Strong support Potential feature overload

Users rate LogicManager highly, with a 91% recommendation rate from 111 reviews. A Senior IT Compliance Analyst at Cooper Standard praised:

"The LogicManager team... have been extremely responsive and attentive to all our needs."

LogicManager could boost your compliance efforts, but be prepared for initial setup and training time.

7. ZenGRC

ZenGRC

ZenGRC is a cloud-based platform that makes compliance easier for companies big and small. It's packed with tools to handle governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) tasks.

What's cool about ZenGRC?

  • It keeps all your data in one place
  • It automates workflows
  • It helps you assess risks
  • It keeps an eye on your compliance

Here's why ZenGRC stands out:

1. It's easy to use

Both auditors and auditees can navigate the platform without breaking a sweat.

2. You can make it your own

Got a specific framework in mind? ZenGRC lets you set it up using ready-made templates. Talk about a time-saver!

3. Real-time updates

Want to know how you're doing? ZenGRC's dashboards show you the latest on your performance and compliance status.

Pros Cons
User-friendly Some advanced features take time to master
Customizable templates Might be too much for small businesses
Great customer support No public pricing info

Users seem to love ZenGRC. One happy customer said:

"Powerful, extensible, and easy to use software. Excellent support and product roadmap."

ZenGRC can help your company:

  • Cut down on manual compliance work
  • Get everyone on the same page about risks
  • Make audits less of a headache

Take the audit module, for example. It lets teams assign tasks, ask for evidence, and review submissions all in one spot. No more endless email chains or messy spreadsheets!

ZenGRC also helps you keep tabs on your vendors' risks. It's like having a watchdog for your suppliers and partners.

ZenGRC has a lot going for it, but remember to think about what your company really needs before you jump in. Every organization is different, after all.

8. AuditBoard

AuditBoard

AuditBoard is a cloud platform for audit, risk, and compliance management. Over 35% of Fortune 500 companies use it. It's similar to ZenGRC, but with some key differences.

Here's what makes AuditBoard stand out:

  1. Automation: It handles evidence collection, testing, and monitoring automatically. This cuts down on manual work.

  2. Analytics: It connects with data warehouses for deep insights and continuous assurance.

  3. Resource planning: The SOXHUB module helps manage internal control and other projects more efficiently.

  4. AI assistance: AuditBoard AI uses generative AI and machine learning to help teams create content and analyze information faster.

Feature Benefit
200+ integrations Easy data flow across organization
Automated workflows Comply with multiple programs at once
Real-time risk assessments Stay ahead of new threats
Ready-made reporting Give C-suite data-driven insights

Users have seen some impressive results:

  • 281% ROI over 3 years from GRC efficiency gains
  • 49% better understanding of organizational and operational risk
  • 50% more efficient stakeholder engagement

One user said:

"Having AuditBoard as that one source of truth makes everything so much easier."

AuditBoard offers:

  • Central documentation and evidence management
  • Automatic notifications through Microsoft Teams
  • Easier vendor risk assessments in the TPRM module

Keep in mind: Some teams might find AuditBoard's many features overwhelming at first. Always consider your specific needs and resources before choosing a tool.

9. OneTrust

OneTrust

OneTrust's compliance workflow automation tool helps companies streamline their compliance processes and keep up with regulations.

Here's what OneTrust's Compliance Automation offers:

  • Covers 40+ compliance frameworks
  • Automates up to 60% of evidence collection
  • Centralizes risk and control management
  • Provides real-time reports and analytics

By cutting compliance work by up to 60%, teams can focus on what really matters.

Feature What it does
Shared evidence framework Handles 33+ frameworks at once
Ready integrations Pulls data from your tech stack
Central policy management Ditches spreadsheets and multiple tools
Automated project management Breaks down tasks

OneTrust's "test once, comply many" approach tackles multiple frameworks like ISO 27001, SOC 2, and NIST CSF without extra work.

"Today's leading companies are focusing on the responsible use of data and AI. With the launch of Compliance Automation, we have revolutionized how compliance is managed." - Blake Brannon, Chief Product & Strategy Officer at OneTrust

OneTrust's GRC and Security Assurance Cloud also helps:

  • Spot and reduce risks
  • Improve risk visibility
  • Automate audits

Want to see it in action? OneTrust offers live demos of their Compliance Automation platform.

Heads up: Some users find the interface tricky to navigate, and you might need to do some manual setup for the best results.

Pricing starts at $30 per month, with a free trial available.

Wrap-up

Compliance workflow automation is now essential for businesses navigating complex regulations. These tools do more than save time - they're crucial for managing risk and boosting efficiency.

When picking a compliance automation tool, focus on:

  • How well it works with your current systems
  • Real-time monitoring and reporting
  • Built-in content for common standards
  • Room to grow with your business
  • Easy-to-use interface and solid support

The right tool can cut manual work significantly. OneTrust's platform, for example, claims to automate up to 60% of evidence collection.

But don't forget the human touch. As Blake Brannon from OneTrust says:

"Today's leading companies are focusing on the responsible use of data and AI. With the launch of Compliance Automation, we have revolutionized how compliance is managed."

It's all about balancing tech with human know-how.

Consider costs too. While there's an upfront investment, long-term savings can be big. These tools can protect your bottom line and reputation by reducing non-compliance risks (remember Meta's 1.2 billion euro fine?).

As you look at your options, find a solution that fits your specific needs and works well with what you're already doing. The right choice won't just help you meet regulations - it'll give you an edge in today's data-driven business world.

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