Manifestly Achieves SOC 2 Type II Compliance

This blog post explores Manifestly's journey to SOC 2 Type II compliance, highlighting the challenges, strategies, and benefits of this certification.

Understanding SOC 2 Type II Compliance

What is SOC 2 Type II?

SOC 2 Type II compliance is a critical standard for technology and cloud-based service providers, particularly those handling customer data. SOC 2, developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), is designed to ensure that service organizations manage data securely to protect the interests of their clients. While SOC 2 Type I assesses a company's systems at a single point in time, SOC 2 Type II evaluates the effectiveness of these systems over a period, typically six months to a year.

For service organizations, achieving SOC 2 Type II compliance is not just about meeting a set of criteria; it is about demonstrating a commitment to rigorous security practices and operational integrity. This standard is particularly important for companies that process or store customer data, as it reassures clients that their information is being handled according to the highest security and privacy protections.

The Trust Services Criteria form the backbone of SOC 2, encompassing five key principles: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. These principles guide organizations in establishing robust controls to protect sensitive data and ensure reliable and efficient operations.

Why SOC 2 Matters for SaaS Companies in 2025

As we look towards 2025, the significance of SOC 2 compliance for SaaS companies continues to grow. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats and data breaches, businesses are more focused than ever on enhancing their data security measures. SOC 2 compliance serves as a benchmark for companies to prove their commitment to data protection, which is essential in building trust with clients and stakeholders.

In the competitive SaaS landscape, SOC 2 Type II compliance also plays a pivotal role in enterprise procurement processes. Many enterprises now require their vendors to have SOC 2 Type II certification as a prerequisite for doing business. This trend underscores the importance of compliance in facilitating smoother procurement cycles and enhancing partnerships with larger organizations.

Moreover, industry leaders like Vanta and Tugboat Logic emphasize the role of SOC 2 in maintaining competitive advantage. These resources highlight how SOC 2 compliance not only enhances security but also boosts customer confidence and opens up new market opportunities. As the demand for secure and reliable service providers escalates, SaaS companies that prioritize SOC 2 compliance will be better positioned to thrive in the digital economy.

The Journey to SOC 2 Type II Compliance

Initial Challenges and Setbacks

Embarking on the journey to achieve SOC 2 Type II compliance, Manifestly faced a series of challenges that are common among SaaS companies. Initially, the compliance process was largely manual and fraught with confusion, as the team grappled with understanding the intricate requirements and aligning them with existing business operations. This led to inefficiencies that affected both internal processes and external perceptions, particularly during sales cycles. Potential clients often demanded proof of robust security measures, and without SOC 2 Type II certification, this became a significant bottleneck, causing delays and sometimes even lost opportunities in the fast-paced SaaS market.

Partnering with Sprinto for Automated Compliance

Recognizing the need for a strategic shift, Manifestly partnered with Sprinto, a leader in automated compliance solutions. Sprinto's platform provided a comprehensive suite of tools that streamlined the compliance process, transforming it from a cumbersome manual task into a seamless, automated workflow. By integrating directly with existing systems, Sprinto enabled real-time evidence collection, ensuring that compliance efforts were not only efficient but also accurate and up-to-date.

The integration of Sprinto's solutions offered significant benefits, including the ability to continuously monitor compliance status and automatically generate reports. This removed the ambiguity associated with manual processes and allowed the team to focus more on core business activities. Additionally, Sprinto provided hands-on coaching and support, guiding Manifestly through each stage of the compliance process and ensuring that all trust services criteria were met effectively.

Timeline of the 90-Day Certification Process

With Sprinto's support, Manifestly embarked on a rigorous 90-day certification process. The journey was marked by several key milestones, each representing a significant step towards achieving SOC 2 Type II compliance. Initially, the team conducted a gap analysis to identify existing security measures and areas needing improvement. With a clear roadmap in place, Sprinto facilitated the implementation of necessary controls and processes, ensuring alignment with the Trust Services Criteria.

Throughout the 90 days, Sprinto's platform provided continuous monitoring and real-time insights, allowing the team to address any issues promptly. This proactive approach not only expedited the certification process but also established a foundation for maintaining compliance in the future. The successful completion of this intense yet rewarding journey was a testament to the power of automation and strategic partnerships, setting the stage for Manifestly to enhance trust and efficiency in its operations.

For those interested in exploring how automation can revolutionize compliance processes, our blog post on workflow management software solutions provides further insights into optimizing business operations.

Practical Lessons for SaaS Teams

Automating Controls

In the realm of SOC 2 Type II compliance, automation emerges as a game-changer for SaaS companies. The compliance process is intricate, requiring meticulous tracking and documentation of controls, which can be both time-consuming and prone to human error if done manually. Automating these controls not only enhances efficiency but also ensures consistency and accuracy in compliance efforts.

For SaaS teams, leveraging tools that integrate seamlessly with existing systems is crucial. Platforms like Sprinto have proven instrumental in this regard, offering features that automate evidence collection and compliance monitoring. By utilizing such tools, firms can maintain a real-time compliance posture, which is vital in a landscape where regulations and client expectations are continually evolving. Additionally, automation minimizes the burden on IT and compliance teams, allowing them to focus on strategic initiatives rather than repetitive tasks.

Implementing workflow automations can further enhance operational efficiency. These automations can trigger alerts for non-compliance, schedule regular audits, and ensure that all aspects of the compliance process are transparent and auditable. Such strategies not only streamline the compliance journey but also fortify the organization’s security posture, making it resilient against potential threats and audits.

Ownership Assignment and Policy Development

Effective compliance is not just about technology; it's also about people and processes. Assigning clear roles and responsibilities is a vital step in achieving and maintaining SOC 2 Type II compliance. Each team member should understand their responsibilities regarding data security and compliance, fostering a culture of accountability and vigilance.

Developing and implementing robust policies is another cornerstone of compliance success. These policies should be comprehensive, covering everything from data encryption standards to incident response protocols. Resources like the Trust Services Criteria provide a framework that can guide the development of these policies, ensuring they align with industry standards and best practices.

Furthermore, regular training and policy reviews are essential to keep the workforce updated on compliance requirements and practices. This continuous education ensures that teams are equipped to handle new challenges and regulatory changes swiftly and effectively. For SaaS companies, maintaining an updated employee onboarding checklist that includes compliance training can be beneficial in ensuring new hires are aligned with the company’s compliance objectives from day one.

Finally, leveraging tools for organizing departments and roles can enhance clarity in ownership and accountability. This strategic alignment of roles and responsibilities not only optimizes team efficiency but also strengthens the organization's ability to uphold the highest standards of data security and compliance.

Benefits Post-Certification

Faster Sales Cycles

Achieving SOC 2 Type II compliance has significantly streamlined Manifestly's sales cycles, particularly when it comes to enterprise sales. As organizations increasingly demand stringent security assurances from their vendors, having a SOC 2 certification provides a competitive edge. It acts as a prequalification for potential clients, expediting the procurement process and eliminating potential barriers to closing deals. According to Prescient Assurance, SOC 2 compliance is crucial for enterprise sales success, as it demonstrates a company's dedication to data security, thereby enhancing customer confidence and facilitating smoother negotiations.

Moreover, as noted by Kiteworks, SOC 2 certification is instrumental in driving enterprise customer acquisition. By proving their commitment to maintaining high security standards, Manifestly not only attracts more enterprise clients but also builds stronger relationships with existing customers. This strategic positioning allows for faster contract negotiations and a more efficient sales pipeline, ultimately boosting revenue and market presence.

Increased Customer Trust

In today's digital landscape, trust is a currency that cannot be underestimated. With the SOC 2 Type II certification, Manifestly has solidified its reputation as a trustworthy partner for enterprise clients. This certification assures customers that Manifestly adheres to the highest standards of data protection and process integrity, which is essential in building long-term relationships.

The emphasis on transparency and security has been a critical factor in how clients perceive and engage with Manifestly. By showcasing a proven track record of compliance, the company has not only met but exceeded customer expectations, leading to increased loyalty and customer retention. This transparency also aligns with the expectations set forth by industry leaders like Drata, which emphasize the importance of demonstrating a commitment to security practices in order to maintain trust and credibility in the market.

Improved Internal Security Practices

Beyond external benefits, SOC 2 compliance has driven significant improvements in Manifestly's internal security practices. The rigorous certification process required a thorough evaluation and enhancement of existing security measures, leading to more robust and efficient internal processes. These enhancements not only ensure compliance but also fortify the organization against potential threats and vulnerabilities.

The long-term benefits of these improvements are manifold. By embedding security into the organizational culture, Manifestly has cultivated a proactive approach to data protection, reducing the risk of data breaches and enhancing overall operational resilience. This proactive stance is crucial in maintaining a strong security posture, as outlined in resources like AuditBoard, which highlight the ongoing benefits of maintaining stringent security controls.

Ultimately, the journey to achieving SOC 2 compliance has reinforced Manifestly's commitment to safeguarding customer data and optimizing internal processes. By leveraging the insights gained from this process, the company is well-positioned to maintain its competitive edge and continue delivering exceptional value to its clients.

Future Goals and Acknowledgments

Upcoming Compliance Goals

As Manifestly celebrates the achievement of SOC 2 Type II compliance, we are already setting our sights on future milestones to further strengthen our commitment to security and operational excellence. One of our primary objectives is to pursue ISO 27001 certification, a globally recognized standard for information security management systems. This certification will not only reinforce our dedication to safeguarding customer data but also enhance our credibility in the eyes of potential clients and partners. ISO 27001 provides a framework for managing sensitive company and customer information, ensuring that our processes are robust and resilient against evolving threats.

In addition to achieving ISO 27001 certification, we are excited to announce plans to open-source a comprehensive SOC 2 checklist. This initiative is aimed at fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration within the SaaS community. By sharing detailed insights into our compliance journey, we hope to assist other organizations in navigating the complexities of SOC 2 certification. Our open-source checklist will provide a valuable resource for companies seeking to streamline their compliance processes, much like the solutions we discussed in our earlier blog post on workflow management software solutions.

Acknowledgments

The journey to SOC 2 Type II compliance was a team effort, and we owe our success to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our partner, Sprinto, for their unwavering support and expertise. Sprinto's automated compliance solutions were instrumental in guiding us through each step of the process, ensuring that we met all necessary criteria efficiently and effectively. Their platform's real-time monitoring and evidence collection capabilities were game-changers in our compliance journey.

We also want to recognize the incredible efforts of the Manifestly team. Achieving SOC 2 Type II compliance required meticulous attention to detail, and our team's commitment to excellence and security was palpable throughout the entire process. Each member played a crucial role, from conducting the initial gap analysis to implementing the required security controls. Their collaboration and perseverance were key to our success, and we are proud to have such a dedicated team driving our mission forward.

Looking ahead, Manifestly remains committed to building on our achievements and continuing to enhance our security and compliance frameworks. Our future goals will further solidify our position as a trusted partner for enterprise clients, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of the SaaS industry. We invite our readers to explore our blog for more insights on compliance and best practices in SaaS security, including posts like Efficient Vulnerability Management: A Checklist for IT Security Professionals, which offers valuable guidance for maintaining a secure and compliant business environment.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about SOC 2 Type II Compliance

What is SOC 2 Type II and why does it matter?

SOC 2 Type II is an auditing procedure that ensures your service providers securely manage your data to protect the privacy of your clients. It is crucial for technology and SaaS companies because it evaluates the effectiveness of a company's controls over a period, ensuring ongoing compliance with the Trust Services Criteria defined by the AICPA. This compliance showcases a company's commitment to security practices and operational integrity, thus building trust with clients and stakeholders.

How did Manifestly achieve SOC 2 Type II compliance?

Manifestly achieved SOC 2 Type II compliance by overcoming initial challenges and partnering with Sprinto for automated compliance solutions. This partnership allowed for a streamlined, automated workflow that simplified the compliance process. Over a rigorous 90-day certification process, Manifestly implemented necessary controls and processes while continuously monitoring compliance status to ensure all criteria were met effectively.

What are the benefits of SOC 2 Type II for customers?

For customers, SOC 2 Type II provides assurance that their data is managed securely and in compliance with the highest standards of data protection. This certification enhances customer trust and confidence, knowing that the service provider is committed to maintaining robust security measures. Additionally, it can expedite procurement processes as many enterprises prioritize vendors with SOC 2 certification.

What were the challenges faced during the process?

Manifestly initially faced challenges common to many SaaS companies, including manual compliance processes and confusion over the requirements. These challenges affected business operations and led to delays in sales cycles. By transitioning to automated solutions with Sprinto, these hurdles were effectively addressed, allowing for a more efficient compliance journey.

How does SOC 2 impact enterprise sales?

SOC 2 Type II compliance significantly impacts enterprise sales by acting as a prequalification for potential clients, especially larger enterprises that require stringent security assurances from their vendors. This certification can streamline sales cycles, reduce barriers to entry, and expedite contract negotiations, as highlighted by experts at Prescient Assurance.

What are Manifestly's next steps in compliance?

Following the achievement of SOC 2 Type II compliance, Manifestly is setting its sights on obtaining ISO 27001 certification. This globally recognized standard will further reinforce their commitment to securing customer data. Additionally, Manifestly plans to open-source a comprehensive SOC 2 checklist to assist other organizations in navigating the complexities of compliance, fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration within the SaaS community.

Where can prospects get more information or documentation?

Prospects interested in more detailed information or documentation about SOC 2 compliance can explore resources from leaders in the field, such as Vanta and Drata. Additionally, Manifestly's blog offers a wealth of insights and updates on compliance and security practices.

How does SOC 2 certification improve internal security?

SOC 2 certification drives significant improvements in internal security practices by necessitating a thorough evaluation of existing security measures. This process leads to enhanced and more efficient internal processes, reducing vulnerabilities and fortifying the organization against potential threats. The ongoing benefits of maintaining such stringent security controls are well-documented by industry resources like AuditBoard.

Why Choose Manifestly

Benefits of Choosing Manifestly

Choosing Manifestly as your checklist and workflow management solution means opting for a platform that is committed to enhancing efficiency and compliance. Our commitment to achieving SOC 2 Type II compliance underscores our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of security and operational integrity. This certification not only assures you of our stringent data protection measures but also aligns with your enterprise needs for reliable and secure service providers.

At Manifestly, we understand that each business has unique requirements. That's why we offer personalized demos to tailor our solutions to your specific operational challenges. This hands-on approach ensures that you can leverage our platform's full potential to streamline your processes and enhance productivity.

Our platform is backed by a robust help center designed to support you at every step. Whether you need guidance on integrating with tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams, or require insights on optimizing workflows, our comprehensive resources are available to assist. Our support extends beyond basic troubleshooting, offering insights into best practices for creating effective workflows and maintaining compliance.

Manifestly's commitment to compliance and security is not just about meeting standards but about setting them. Our journey to SOC 2 Type II compliance, as highlighted earlier, reflects our proactive approach to security and operational excellence. We continuously strive to enhance our platform’s capabilities, ensuring that your data is handled with the utmost care and confidentiality.

Furthermore, our platform offers a suite of features that boost productivity and streamline operations. From workflow automations that reduce manual tasks to role-based assignments that clarify responsibilities, Manifestly is designed to optimize your business processes. With our workflow management software solutions, you can achieve maximum efficiency and ensure that your team remains focused on strategic initiatives.

In choosing Manifestly, you're partnering with a platform that not only supports your operational needs but also enhances your competitive edge in a digital-first world. Explore our blog for more insights on compliance and operational efficiency, and discover how we can help transform your business processes today.