A-LIGN Unveils Insights from Its Fifth Annual Compliance Benchmark Report

A-LIGN, a prominent name in the realm of cybersecurity compliance, has recently released its fifth annual Compliance Benchmark Report, a comprehensive analysis incorporating responses from over 1,000 participants spanning various industries across the globe. This year's report offers a valuable and detailed perspective on current compliance priorities, the obstacles organizations face, and best practices adopted in the sector.

Scott Price, the CEO of A-LIGN, emphasized the significance of this year's findings. He stated, "The 2025 Compliance Benchmark Report uncovers crucial insights into the evolving priorities and challenges facing compliance teams today, from AI compliance to growing audit complexities." This highlights A-LIGN's commitment to providing exceptional audits aimed at not only meeting regulatory and market requirements but also enhancing customer trust and managing risks efficiently.

Key Findings of the 2025 Compliance Benchmark Report

Audit Quality Holds the Top Spot

The findings reveal that maintaining a high standard of audit quality remains a foremost priority for organizations. An impressive 70% of respondents identified audit report quality as extremely important, with key elements driving their decision being the number of controls tested (36%) and the length of the report (26%). This aligns with the rising expectations of stakeholders who demand transparency and thoroughness in audits.

Emphasis on AI Compliance

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly expanding its footprint in compliance strategies. The report notes that 90% of the surveyed organizations either already have or are in the process of developing an AI compliance policy. Furthermore, the future shows promise, with 76% of these entities intending to pursue AI audits or certifications within the next two years. This highlights the increasingly critical role of AI in modern compliance frameworks.

Beyond SOC 2: The New Standard

What was once considered a competitive advantage has transformed into a fundamental expectation. The report indicates a significant shift, with most organizations recognizing that additional certifications and frameworks are necessary to meet client and regulatory demands. A striking 92% of respondents conduct multiple audits, and over half (58%) engage in four or more audits per year, emphasizing the evolving landscape of compliance standards.

Growing Audit Complexity

Another critical insight from this year's findings is the complexity of audits faced by larger enterprises. Organizations have demonstrated that larger enterprises are more than twice as likely (35% compared to 15%) to implement six or more annual audits. As businesses expand, their compliance needs become more intricate, prompting demand for solutions that facilitate audit consolidation and harmonization.

In conclusion, A-LIGN's 2025 Compliance Benchmark Report serves as a valuable resource for organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of modern compliance challenges. The full report can be accessed on A-LIGN's website for further insights and actionable knowledge.

For more about A-LIGN, a leader in providing seamless and high-quality cybersecurity compliance solutions—including SOC 2, ISO 27001, HITRUST, and more—visit A-LIGN online. With a dedicated team and advanced audit management technology, A-LIGN aims to deliver the utmost efficiency and reliability in compliance services.