However, there is a way to stay ahead of the game. With frequent and consistent security audits, teams can respond to the changing threat landscape and provide an opportunity to take a step back and review the health and efficiency of their programs. Audit results can vary from uncovering underlying issues causing rippling effects throughout the company to giving a solid argument for additional resources and technologies. Using these audits as your foundation can make teams stronger, more prepared, and more proactive against impending threats.

And while the need for a security audit may be obvious, getting started can be overwhelming. However, working with a third party to conduct these audits is like using an “easy” button for your security needs. Here are five reasons for making a business case for outsourcing your audits.

1. An Unbiased Process
It’s human nature to want a positive outcome when conducting these audits. But that’s often an unrealistic outcome when looking at systems of all sizes. When problems arise during a security audit, internal employees may want to put a positive spin on it instead of telling it how it is. By working with an outsourced vendor, you can be sure that nothing will be brushed under the rug. Consultants are there to provide an unbiased and truthful assessment of your security program so that you can have a holistic view of your associated risk and how to combat it.

2. Additional Experience/Expertise
Farmers Insurance’s tagline said it best, “We know a thing or two because we’ve seen a thing or two.” And when it comes to a third party conducting your security audit, the same principle applies. Consultants work with a wide variety of customers and as a result, have seen a variety of situations. For companies that may be facing new or evolving threats, working with experts, who have not only come across these challenges before but have provided ways to overcome them, brings a new level of understanding to your team. This level of experience can also help avoid overlooking things that may seem normal but could pose a threat in the future.

3. Prioritized Completion
Danny Chung, Global Director of Design and Consulting at Northland, says that companies should be conducting security audits at least once a year. And while companies may set intentions to keep up with that schedule, it can be easy for this type of initiative to fall to the wayside. Competing priorities and projects can easily take precedent, meaning vulnerabilities and gaps in your security will not only emerge but flourish in an unchecked environment. By working with an external vendor to conduct your audit, you can be more intentional with your priorities without having to sacrifice other initiatives.

4. Solutions-Driven
If you’ve conducted an internal security audit in the past, you may have been left with a punch-list of items needing attention but no clear understanding of how to address them. With an external audit, third-party consultants can not only reveal the challenges facing your security program but provide actionable solutions. By doing so, you have a roadmap towards a better, more efficient program based on expert experience.

5. Cost
Staying on schedule with your security audits takes preparation and planning. Who will conduct the audit? What projects will be diverted to provide the resources needed to do these audits? What costs will the company incur as a result? By outsourcing your security audits, you can better predict and minimize the total cost—all while keeping the focus on internal initiatives at the same time. Using a third party means teams aren’t required to hire, train, and retain a specific position to carry out these audits, but rather run them in tandem with your security team’s day-to-day responsibilities. When all efforts are moving in the right direction, teams can look at the full picture, including the financial and non-financial costs.

Whether security audits are a solidified part of your security plan or you’re just starting to understand their importance, working with a third-party consultant can help make the most out of the process. If you’re looking to maximize the results of your audits, reach out and learn about how Northland Controls’ team of Security Consultants can help by emailing info@northlandcontrols.com or filling out the form below!