by Steve Schlarman – November 4, 2009

In May, I posted an article on the Archer Blog introducing my white paper on Enabling Cost-Cutting Initiatives with Governance, Risk and Compliance Management Technology. This paper offers suggestions on ways to think about risk management in terms of the cost-cutting efforts that are underway in many organizations. Almost six months later, the topic of cost cutting remains top of mind. Not only does the constant parade of news stories on cut backs and layoffs highlight this trend, but ways to approach cost-cutting issues while managing risk are still part of many business conversations.

In my recent discussions with customers, I’ve heard a common challenge: Management changes, re-organizations, budget evaluations and other indicators of cost-cutting initiatives are affecting risk management efforts. Whether it’s the uncertainty of new management direction or resource challenges posed by movements within the company, it’s not uncommon for risk and compliance programs to face fluctuations in support and resource availability. 

Last week, I had the pleasure of publishing an article on CMSWire on the topic of balancing cost cutting with the fundamental needs of an organization to manage risk and compliance across the enterprise. I invite you to read the CMSWire article, titled “Responsible GRC Programs Can Also Cut Costs,” and to take a second look my white paper on the Archer web site. Additionally, I hope you’ll voice your thoughts and questions here on the Archer blog.