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VikingCloud's New AI Governance Services

In an age where artificial intelligence is becoming an integral part of business operations, VikingCloud has taken a significant leap forward by launching its AI Governance Services. As a trusted provider in cybersecurity and compliance solutions, VikingCloud aims to help brands navigate the complex landscape of AI tools and their associated risks.

The Need for AI Governance

Recent research conducted by VikingCloud revealed that a mere 4% of large, multi-location brands mandate a corporate security review before the adoption of AI tools at their various locations. This alarming statistic highlights a critical gap in AI governance, especially as employees increasingly adopt AI technologies without prior corporate oversight, leading to what is referred to as shadow AI. Shadow AI poses a serious risk, as unauthorized tools introduce vulnerabilities that can compromise organizational security.

As businesses strive for uniform security standards across multiple locations, the challenges posed by shadow AI become even more pronounced. Every AI tool implemented at the local level can lead to inconsistencies that endanger overall corporate security. Companies are starting to understand that the gap between established security policies and the actual use of AI technology is not just a technical issue—it’s a business risk that requires immediate attention.

Meeting Industry Demands

According to Thomas Patterson, Executive Vice President, Global Product Management at VikingCloud, “AI governance is becoming a standard condition of doing business—and a prerequisite for gaining new business.” With heightened demand for accountability from customers, boards, and regulators, organizations are under increasing pressure to implement robust AI governance frameworks. Compliance requirements, such as the EU AI Act, now enforce stricter guidelines that companies must adhere to, making it essential for them to establish proper governance mechanisms.

To meet these evolving demands, VikingCloud’s AI Governance Services provide systematic and comprehensive assessments in the following ways:

1. AI Health Check: This three-week evaluation assesses the current state of AI tools employed within an organization and identifies where security controls are lacking. The output includes an AI Health Index rated from 0 to 100, along with a structured action plan for the next 180 days.
2. AI Readiness Assessment: This in-depth examination, spanning four to six weeks, tests multiple checkpoints (101, to be exact) against leading global standards like ISO/IEC 42001 and the NIST AI Risk Management Framework. Organizations receive a clear assessment of their AI readiness and recommendations that help align with regulatory expectations.

Pioneering AI Governance

The launch of these AI Governance Services represents an expansion of VikingCloud's current services to tackle the growing needs related to AI management. With over 20 years of experience in security and compliance, VikingCloud is now applying its rigorous assessment methodologies to the AI space. This thoughtful approach not only mitigates risks but also ensures that organizations are kept secure and ready for audits throughout the AI integration process.

VikingCloud’s AI Governance Services enhance the existing landscape of their Asgard Platform®, allowing clients to streamline their compliance programs alongside AI governance strategies. As Kevin Pierce, President and COO of VikingCloud states, “AI governance is quickly becoming part of every security and compliance conversation. By bringing our assessors' discipline to AI, we're helping organizations govern it with a partner they already trust.”

Organizations interested in improving their AI governance framework can visit VikingCloud's website for more detailed information on how to utilize these new services effectively. Additionally, companies pursuing ISO/IEC 42001 certification, the international standard for AI management systems, can find assistance through VikingCloud’s Audit & Certification entity.

Conclusion

As enterprises continue to embrace AI technologies, VikingCloud is leading the charge in helping organizations establish tangible frameworks for responsible AI use. This initiative not only fortifies security measures but also positions companies to meet regulatory demands and customer expectations in this rapidly changing technological landscape. In a world where AI governance is becoming the norm, VikingCloud stands ready to guide businesses towards a more compliant and secure future.