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Background

Building Client Trust and Unlocking Growth with a SOC 2 Audit

A rapidly growing SaaS company providing data management services to financial institutions found itself at a pivotal point in its growth trajectory.

The Challenge

Is it Time for a SOC 2 Audit?

The company was facing a major roadblock: prospective clients began requiring a SOC 2 report before signing contracts. Without it, the company struggled to close deals, respond to increasingly complex security questionnaires, and position themselves competitively against larger, more established vendors.

While their internal team maintained strong cybersecurity practices, they lacked formal documentation and had never undergone a third-party audit. Leadership was concerned that navigating the SOC process alone would overwhelm their already stretched resources.

They needed a partner to guide them through the readiness and reporting process—and fast.

How KLR Responded

Guiding SOC 2 Success

The company engaged KLR’s SOC Audit team for a full-service SOC 2 readiness and examination engagement.

Our approach included:

  • Readiness Assessment: We conducted a detailed gap analysis of their current policies, procedures, and controls, identifying areas needing improvement to meet SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria.
  • Ongoing Advisory: We provided continuous guidance, working hand-in-hand with their internal IT and compliance teams to implement best practices without disrupting daily operations.
  • SOC 2 Type 1 Audit and Reporting: After readiness, we completed the initial SOC 2 Type 1 audit, issuing an independent report the company could confidently share with prospects and clients.

""KLR made the SOC process approachable and manageable. They didn’t just audit us—they partnered with us. Their team helped us put the right controls in place, prepare our staff, and gave us the confidence to present ourselves as a trusted partner to our clients. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide through the process.""

— Chief Operating Officer, SaaS Company

Key Outcomes

Building Trust & Growth

Faster Sales Cycles: The company reduced delays in closing contracts, as they could now provide a credible, independent SOC 2 report upfront.

Stronger Client Trust: Clients and prospects expressed increased confidence in the company's ability to handle sensitive data securely.

Operational Improvements: The internal control enhancements made during the process improved data management practices across the company.

Future Scalability: With a formalized risk and compliance foundation in place, the company was well positioned to pursue a Type 2 report the following year and continue scaling operations in regulated markets.

Experience Matters. Let's Connect.

SOC 2: More Than Compliance

Completing a SOC 2 audit isn’t just about checking a compliance box; it’s a catalyst for business growth, operational maturity, and competitive differentiation. Our SOC team can help you get started.

Daniel M. Andrea

Daniel M. Andrea, Partner, Information Security

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