Introduction
Learning how to achieve SOC 2 while scaling your business is essential in today’s digital-first world. This Framework protects Customer Data, boosts your Credibility & strengthens internal Operations. Many companies aim to scale rapidly, but without proper Controls in place, they risk compromising Data Integrity or failing Audits. SOC 2 compliance provides a structured way to grow securely, but it requires careful coordination between Technical, Operational & Leadership Teams.
This article explains what SOC 2 is, the five (5) core Trust Principles it stands on, the typical challenges scaling companies face & a step-by-step method for achieving compliance. It also explores whether your business needs external help & how long the process may take.
What is SOC 2 Compliance & how it matters?
SOC 2 stands for System & Organisation Controls 2, a set of Auditing Standards developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants [AICPA]. It’s designed to evaluate how well a company manages Customer Data, particularly in service-based businesses that store information in the cloud.
SOC 2 is not a legal requirement but has become a widely accepted benchmark for operational maturity. Investors, partners & customers often demand a SOC 2 Report before doing business.
SOC 2 matters because it:
- Demonstrates your commitment to Data Security & Privacy
- Reduces the Risk of Data Breaches & Non-compliance
- Builds Trust with Stakeholders
- Increases your competitive edge in crowded markets
The five (5) Trust Service Criteria explained
To understand how to achieve SOC 2, you need to grasp its five (5) Core Principles, also known as Trust Service Criteria:
- Security: Systems must be protected against unauthorized access.
- Availability: Services must be available for operation as agreed.
- Processing Integrity: System processing must be complete, valid & accurate.
- Confidentiality: Data classified as confidential must be protected.
- Privacy: Personal Data must be collected & used appropriately.
Not all criteria are mandatory. Your business selects what is relevant based on services offered.
Refer to Cloud Security Alliance for helpful security & Privacy implementation guides.
Challenges businesses face while scaling with SOC 2
Scaling brings new complexities that can clash with SOC 2 readiness. Here are the most common hurdles:
- Inconsistent Processes: As teams grow, documentation & operations often become disjointed.
- Tool Overload: New tools are added quickly without integration, creating visibility issues.
- Lack of Ownership: Compliance is treated as IT’s job, not a company-wide responsibility.
- Poorly Defined Controls: Policies are either missing or not followed consistently.
- Rushed Timelines: Leadership expects fast results without understanding the workload involved.
Each of these can delay or derail SOC 2 readiness if not addressed early.
Step-by-step guide on how to achieve SOC 2
To effectively manage how to achieve SOC 2 during scaling, follow these steps:
Step 1: Conduct a Readiness Assessment
Identify discrepancies in existing procedures in relation to SOC 2 standards.
Step 2: Define & Implement Controls
Introduce technical & administrative Controls to address identified gaps. Use frameworks like NIST for reference.
Step 3: Automate Where Possible
Use automation to track logs, monitor access & enforce Security Controls consistently.
Step 4: Train your Team
Everyone from Customer support to developers should understand their role in compliance.
Step 5: Engage an Auditor
Only an AICPA-certified CPA Firm can conduct a SOC 2 Audit. Choose one that aligns with your industry.
Step 6: Collect Evidence & Prepare for Audit
Use centralized dashboards to gather logs, reports & approval records for each control.
Balancing SOC 2 compliance with growth
A growing business often prioritizes revenue, hires & product development. SOC 2 might seem like a bottleneck. However, with the right approach, it becomes a growth enabler.
- Design Controls that scale: Choose flexible systems that grow with your team size & complexity.
- Use modular tools: Pick platforms that allow integrations rather than forcing new workflows.
- Create a compliance culture: Regularly talk about security & Privacy in meetings, even outside IT.
- Set realistic timelines: Don’t promise a report in two (2) weeks; SOC 2 is a multi-month process.
Common mistakes to avoid during SOC 2 readiness
Avoiding the following mistakes will make learning how to achieve SOC 2 far easier:
- Starting compliance before fully understanding your architecture
- Copy-pasting Policies without tailoring them
- Over-relying on manual processes
- Not assigning clear ownership for each control
- Ignoring User access management
SOC 2 readiness is a test of internal discipline as much as technical strength.
How long does SOC 2 readiness take during business scaling?
Timelines vary depending on business maturity. A company with zero documentation may take six (6) to nine (9) months. If processes are in place, it could take as little as three (3) months.
Factors that influence duration include:
- Number of systems in scope
- Internal resources available
- Level of automation
- Type of report (Type I vs. Type II)
Be realistic in planning your journey. SOC 2 readiness is not just about passing an Audit – it’s about building lasting, secure habits.
Do you need external help to achieve SOC 2?
Many scaling companies partner with Third Party platforms or consultants. This reduces manual effort & increases success rate.
Consider external help if:
- You lack in-house compliance expertise
- You need Audit-readiness fast
- You want automated evidence collection
- You want policy templates tailored to your industry
However, remember that external support doesn’t remove internal responsibility. Your team still needs to understand & operate within the defined Controls.
Takeaways
- SOC 2 compliance is a trust signal to your customers, investors & partners
- Start with a Readiness Assessment & build strong, scalable Controls
- Do not hurry the process or undervalue the effort required.
- Train your team & foster a culture of compliance
- Seek help when needed, but remain accountable internally
FAQ
What is the meaning of SOC 2 Type I & Type II?
Type I assesses whether Controls are established at a particular moment. Type II examines the effectiveness of those Controls over a duration of time, typically ranging from three (3) to six (6) months.
Is SOC 2 mandatory for SaaS companies?
No, but it is often a requirement from Enterprise Clients who want assurance about your Data handling practices.
How much does SOC 2 compliance cost?
Costs vary between $ 10,000 to $ 30,000.
Can we pass SOC 2 without a dedicated security team?
Yes, but it is more difficult. You will need strong Policies, Technical Controls & buy-in from leadership.
How frequently is a SOC 2 Audit required?
SOC 2 Type II Audits are usually conducted annually. It helps maintain continuous trust with your Stakeholders.
Do startups need to worry about SOC 2?
If you handle sensitive Customer Data, even early-stage startups should consider it, especially when aiming for larger clients.
What if we fail the SOC 2 Audit?
Failing means you didn’t meet some criteria. Work with your Auditor to fix the gaps & resubmit for review.
What tools help in achieving SOC 2?
Platforms like Fusion help with Control monitoring, Evidence collection & Policy management.
References
Need help for Security, Privacy, Governance & VAPT?
Neumetric provides organisations the necessary help to achieve their Cybersecurity, Compliance, Governance, Privacy, Certifications & Pentesting needs.
Organisations & Businesses, specifically those which provide SaaS & AI Solutions in the Fintech, BFSI & other regulated sectors, usually need a Cybersecurity Partner for meeting & maintaining the ongoing Security & Privacy needs & requirements of their Enterprise Clients & Privacy conscious Customers.
SOC 2, ISO 27001, ISO 42001, NIST, HIPAA, HECVAT, EU GDPR are some of the Frameworks that are served by Fusion – a SaaS, multimodular, multitenant, centralised, automated, Cybersecurity & Compliance Management system.
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