How does an organization achieve compliance with security standards?

Achieving compliance with security standards is fundamentally about establishing a systematic and structured approach to security governance, which is effectively accomplished through the implementation of policies and controls. This approach ensures that the organization not only adheres to regulatory requirements but also aligns its security practices with industry best practices.

Policies provide a framework outlining the organization’s security objectives, roles, and responsibilities. They serve as the foundation for establishing a consistent security culture across the organization. Controls are the specific measures—both technical and administrative—that are put in place to mitigate risks, protect resources, and ensure that organizational practices align with established policies. Together, these elements ensure that all aspects of security are rigorously enforced and monitored.

Random security checks or surveys do not establish a comprehensive framework for compliance, as they tend to lack the consistency and thoroughness necessary to ensure all security requirements are met effectively. Ad-hoc practices typically lead to gaps in security coverage and do not lend themselves to sustainable compliance. Therefore, a structured approach involving the implementation of well-defined policies and controls is essential for achieving compliance with security standards.