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Striving for the best practice in business operations requires that compliance management be addressed. Over recent years, flaws in accounting and management have brought about increased governmental regulations. Organizations and businesses must meet local and international guidelines and laws for every country with which they are doing business. Violations may result in either criminal or civil charges.

Publicly held companies are under increased pressure from governmental agencies and from stakeholders to provide compliance with applicable regulations. New compliance management software has been developed to help with this task. Just staying abreast of new regulations and laws is important also. Finally, companies and organizations need to provide proof of compliance, frequently to many different regulators.

Compliance regulations extend not only to the organization or business, but also to the conduct of its employees. Companies need to know who is allowed access to sensitive information and must safeguard that information from eyes not approved to view the information.

Each company must set up internal policies and processes to verify that compliance is achieved. Compliance management includes this aspect of regulation proof of performance. As an organization grows and changes, the compliance laws must still be followed and verified upon request by regulators. Businesses can use internal compliance management software to achieve compliance and proof, or they can hire an outside consulting company to do that job for the business.

Compliance management helps the organization by reducing defects and mistakes internally. Customer complaints may also be reduced and cost savings incurred. Disclosure to employees of the need for compliance and specific procedures to follow will raise workforce effectiveness and improve production processes. Insurance premiums may be reduced because risk of infraction penalties and defects is reduced. Compliance penalties can become a thing of the past as the company easily complies with regulations.

Compliance management is necessary and beneficial to any organization or business. Reducing risk is always a benefit that results in reduced costs in the long run. Litigation over defective products can be minimized or eliminated. Compliance management is a best practice to follow for any business, including those conducting business internationally.

Further reading: Corporate Governance | Audit | Performance Improvement