Introduction
Establishing and maintaining an effective compliance management system (CMS) requires more than just policies and procedures—it requires resources. ISO 37301:2021, the international standard for compliance management systems, recognises that success depends on having adequate and appropriate resources in place. This blog explores why resourcing is critical to compliance and how ISO 37301 helps organisations meet this requirement.
Why Resources Matter for Compliance
Compliance is a continuous, organisation-wide effort that involves monitoring legal obligations, training staff, responding to issues, and improving systems. Without sufficient resources—whether human, technological, or financial—compliance activities can become reactive, fragmented, or ineffective.
Key areas where resources are needed include:
– Staffing and expertise in compliance functions
– Technology for monitoring, reporting, and communication
– Training and awareness programs
– Internal audits and assessments
– Legal and regulatory research tools
Clause 7.1 – Resources
ISO 37301 Clause 7.1 explicitly requires that organisations determine and provide the resources needed for the establishment, implementation, maintenance, and continual improvement of the CMS. These resources should be appropriate to the size, nature, and complexity of the organisation.
This includes consideration of:
– Human resources with the right skills and competencies
– Financial investment in systems and tools
– Access to legal, regulatory, and compliance knowledge
Best Practices for Resourcing Compliance
To ensure effective resourcing, organisations should:
1. Conduct a resource gap analysis during CMS planning.
2. Include compliance in budget planning and strategic decisions.
3. Provide ongoing training to maintain competencies.
4. Invest in compliance technologies and automation.
5. Review and adjust resources as risks or obligations evolve.
Example: Financial Institution
A bank implementing ISO 37301 assessed its compliance workload and realised it lacked sufficient analysts to review customer transactions for regulatory risk. By hiring two new compliance officers and introducing automated screening software, the bank reduced delays, improved monitoring accuracy, and strengthened its overall CMS.
Conclusion
Adequate resourcing is not optional—it is essential for achieving and maintaining compliance. ISO 37301 ensures that organisations recognise the importance of people, tools, and investment in building a sustainable and effective compliance framework. With the right resources in place, organisations are better equipped to prevent non-compliance and foster a culture of integrity.
For further information and to book your ISO37301compliance management systems survey please contact: Marcus J Allen at Thamer James Ltd. Email: [email protected]
Marcus has twenty years’ experience in delivering Governance, Risk and Compliance solutions to over two hundred organisations within the UK. Marcus holds the respected Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance from the International Compliance Association and holds a master’s degree in Management Learning & Change from the University of Bristol.
Marcus is a member of BSI G01 Governance Committee, this committee contributed to the formulation of the above Standard, in the UK.