In today’s complex and evolving Information Security landscape, it is essential for AV organizations to position themselves effectively. They need to meet the stringent Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM) requirements of enterprise customers. For Pro AV businesses, which primarily serve enterprise clients, the urgency has never been greater. Research shows that nearly 88% of recent data breaches stem from third-party vendors. This highlights the need for AV organizations to implement a robust TPRM compliance framework. The framework should be tailored to the demands of enterprise users.

At the core of modern enterprise risk management, Third-Party Risk Management tackles critical challenges. These challenges include cybersecurity threats, regulatory compliance, and supply chain vulnerabilities. Enterprise customers depend on TPRM to assess and select vendors capable of securing their valuable data and maintaining compliant operations. These partnerships not only build trust but also support businesses to thrive in an increasingly complex environment.

The critical question remains: Is your AV business equipped to inspire confidence in your ability to protect client data? Can it meet risk assessments and emerge as a reliable partner? By meeting these expectations, your business can secure a competitive edge and unlock significant growth opportunities.

Wondering what you need to do to prepare for your next client onboarding to stand a chance?

Among other requirements and depending on your scope of operations and the dynamics of your clientele, from an Information Security and Regulatory compliance perspective, implementing, certifying and demonstrating your AV organisation compliance with one or more of the following standards or regulatory frameworks significantly enhance your representation and improve your chances of securing a spot on your potential clients’ vendor lists:

ISO/IEC 27001 :27002 – ISO 27001 is an internationally acclaimed standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It provides a robust framework for managing information security risks and ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data

SOC 2 – SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) is a security and compliance framework developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It is designed to ensure that service providers securely manage customer data to protect the privacy and interests of their clients.

NIST – The NIST Cybersecurity Framework is a globally recognized guideline developed by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to help organizations manage and mitigate cybersecurity risks. It provides a risk-based approach to securing information systems and protecting sensitive data.

GDPR – The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data protection law enacted by the European Union to safeguard personal data and privacy rights for individuals within the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA). It also addresses the transfer of personal data outside the EU

DORA – The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is an EU regulation designed to strengthen the digital resilience of financial entities and ensure they can withstand and recover from severe operational disruptions. It applies to financial institutions and their third-party ICT (Information and Communication Technology) service providers.

In conclusion, we understand that navigating the increasingly demanding Information Security landscape can be overwhelming for AV businesses. However, meeting stringent Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM) requirements is essential—not just as a regulatory obligation, but as a key to fostering growth, trust, and competitiveness. By aligning with recognized frameworks like ISO 27001, SOC 2, NIST, GDPR, and DORA, you can not only build confidence in your ability to protect client data but also establish yourself as a dependable partner in today’s complex and highly regulated environment. Embracing these standards proactively can truly set your AV business apart, helping you forge valuable partnerships and discover new avenues for sustainable success.