by Rob Young, October 10, 2023

time-icon 3 minutes read

In the intricate realm of Cyber Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), the emergence of managed silos poses a significant challenge for organizations. Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and GRC teams are acutely aware of the imperative to align these processes seamlessly. In addition, ITOps teams, including DevOps, often bear the brunt of executing GRC strategies initiated by the business and CISO. This burden can quickly become overwhelming. In this article, we dissect the root causes behind managed silos in GRC and provide a roadmap for remediation. We will also introduce a transformative solution – Cypago’s Cyber GRC Automation (CGA) platform – for establishing shared controls and streamlining incident routing across teams, seamlessly integrating with their existing ticketing tools and workflows.

Limited Cross-Department Collaboration

CISOs and GRC teams often encounter siloed GRC processes due to inadequate cross-department collaboration. This isolation stems from disparate departments developing their own GRC methodologies, hindering the organization’s collective ability to tackle risks holistically.

Fragmented Technology Stacks

The adoption of individualized technology solutions for governance, risk management, and compliance exacerbates managed silos. Although specialized, these solutions lack integration, causing information fragmentation and impeding a comprehensive risk assessment and response.

Communication Breakdowns

The linchpin of effective GRC lies in unhindered communication. When communication channels falter, misconceptions arise, and GRC priorities diverge. Such information gaps only serve to bolster the siloed nature of GRC processes. Likewise, this dynamic often stalls, or derails, security and compliance initiatives.

Irregular Data Standards

Standardizing data collection and reporting mechanisms is pivotal. Non-uniform data formats and definitions prevent seamless data aggregation, confining GRC insights within distinct departments.

Hierarchical Structures

Hierarchical organizational structures inadvertently perpetuate managed GRC silos. Empowering lower-level employees to partake in GRC activities fosters a more inclusive risk management culture, mitigating silos.

Overcoming Resistance to Change

The resistance to change often erects barriers against dismantling GRC silos. CISOs and GRC teams must champion change management strategies that emphasize the benefits of unified GRC processes.

Ambiguous Ownership

Managed silos in GRC emerge when ownership lacks clarity. Designating individuals or teams responsible for overseeing GRC efforts curbs redundancy and ensures accountability.

Breaking Down Managed Silos in GRC: the Automation Transformation

For CISOs and GRC teams aiming to transcend managed silos, the following strategies are invaluable:

  1. Integrated Solutions: Embrace integrated Cyber GRC Automation platforms like Cypago, enabling unified data collection and sharing and collaborative risk management.
  2. Cross-Functional Synergy: Forge cross-functional GRC teams that amalgamate departmental expertise to conquer silos.
  3. Streamlined Communication: Cultivate transparent communication channels for cohesive information exchange among departments.
  4. Unified Data Frameworks: Implement standardized data frameworks that foster uniformity across the organization’s GRC landscape.
  5. Empower Flat Structures: Consider flat organizational structures to empower employees at all levels, fostering a sense of ownership in GRC processes.
  6. Champion Change: Introduce change management initiatives that placate resistance, illustrating the value of cohesive GRC strategies.
  7. Embrace Designated Leadership: Entrust dedicated individuals or teams with the oversight of GRC processes to steer efforts cohesively.

Conclusion

Managed silos in GRC processes are a formidable challenge for CISOs and GRC teams. Yet, armed with insights into the causes and equipped with transformative strategies, the journey to dismantling these silos becomes attainable. The advent of Cyber GRC Automation platforms like Cypago amplifies this journey, revolutionizing GRC processes and ushering in a new era of unified security and compliance management. As the landscape of GRC evolves, CISOs and GRC teams hold the key to breaking free from the shackles of managed silos. Elevate your GRC approach – embrace unity, conquer complexity, and seize control with the power of Cypago.

Learn more about Cypago by reading our brochure