A global perspective on the
state of compliance
About the report
A-LIGN’s sixth annual Compliance Benchmark Report is the most robust source of information about compliance programs worldwide. It provides insights from more than 1,000 respondents in a variety of roles, industries, and company sizes to understand the priorities, motivations, and challenges of compliance professionals in today’s complex compliance environment.
Key themes
The criticality of audit quality
Organizations don’t want to just get the audit done, they want assurance of a superior audit report and experience that safeguards the integrity of their environment and reputation.
of respondents would switch auditors to improve the quality of their final audit report
Overcoming barriers to audit harmonization
Audit complexity remains a top challenge for compliance teams. But, without a clear plan of attack, they aren’t sure where to begin. These teams are seeking partnerships that can alleviate the pressure of perpetual audit cycles.
of those surveyed believe that consolidating or harmonizing their audits could save them time and/or money
Federal compliance evolution
Although there was uncertainty about when this rule would go into effect, organizations that need CMMC to remain on good terms with the DoD were decisive.
of those companies plan to act on the requirement within six months
Tech-enabled compliance is the new baseline
Organizations that care about efficiency and quality are using technology throughout the audit process.
of organizations are using technology during audits/assessments
Strategic AI risk management
There is no one-size-fits-all AI risk management strategy. Organizations are taking charge.
4 out of 5 organizations face customer
inquiries about AI risk management practices
Benchmark your compliance program
A-LIGN’s Compliance Benchmark Report compiles perspectives from compliance professionals working in a variety of industries and company sizes to achieve a common goal: a quality compliance program.
Have you ever wondered whether other teams are thinking about the same priorities or challenges? Interact with the data below to benchmark your compliance program with peers when it comes to priority frameworks,
greatest, challenges, time spent on audits, and defining a quality audit.
Which audits are most important to your business?
Top challenges to compliance strategy
Annual time spent on audits
Defining high-quality audits
Compliance report
Auditor
Access the
2026 Compliance Benchmark Report
Learn about critical challenges, motivations, and priorities of compliance teams across the globe.