Planning is Essential
During a SOC 2 Type 2 examination, if there are any deviations (or exceptions) noted in testing the operational effectiveness of a control, those exceptions have to be shown in the report. Starting your SOC 2 endeavor with a gap analysis, then considering a Type 1 report after remediation ensures a higher potential of success on that Type 2.
All CPA Firms are Not the Same
The education, experience, and expertise of a cybersecurity-focused CPA firm working alongside cybersecurity experts is important. Ensuring you work with a CPA firm that has the right cloud and cybersecurity background, get to know the assessment team, as potential outcomes on SOC and other integrated audits could be impacted.
Establish a ConMon Strategy Early
The key to successful maintenance of SOC 2 (especially for Type 2 reports) is to have a comprehensive continuous monitoring strategy. This strategy includes maintaining the proper staffing levels, ensuring risk assessments and threat analysis methods (e.g. vulnerability scans) are being performed and analyzed on a frequent basis.
SOC 2 with Other Frameworks
While SOC 2 is industry recognized, your organizations may have other frameworks that your currently pursuing (FedRAMP, ISO, HIPAA, etc.). Determining which frameworks are applicable to your business and overall timeline is important. Having a strategy for multiple frameworks in your compliance effort, consolidated efforts and estimated authorization timelines will save your organization time and money.
