By Eric Morehead, original article was published on The Cloud Awards.
In today’s business environment, data is everywhere—but not every organization is using it to its full potential. In his recent article for The Cloud Awards, LRN’s own Eric Morehead explores how data can transform compliance programs from reactive and manual to proactive and strategic.
The challenge of manual compliance
Too many organizations still rely on outdated processes. Eric notes that more than one-third of companies conduct investigations using spreadsheets, and fewer than 30% use cross-functional teams. The result? Delays, limited visibility, and weaker transparency.
Why modernization matters
Modern compliance requires integration and automation. By moving away from siloed systems, companies can:
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Automate routine tasks
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Access real-time insights
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Build accountability and trust across the business
These improvements not only reduce risk but also create more resilient organizations.
Turning data into an advantage
Collecting data alone isn’t enough. Businesses lose an average of $15 million annually due to poor data quality, with nearly 20% of enterprise data sitting unused as “dark data.” Eric emphasizes that clarity—not access—is the real challenge. Programs that analyze and act on high-quality data can identify risk trends, evaluate training effectiveness, and drive meaningful behavior change.
AI and the human impact
One of the most compelling parts of the article is Eric’s look at how AI-powered SaaS tools are reshaping compliance and safety. For example, virtual inspections using drones and imaging technology reduce worker exposure to hazards, lower physical strain, and enable employees to focus on higher-value tasks. Eric highlights RePower’s experience as a case study: by adopting AI-supported inspections, the company improved morale, reduced manual workload, and expanded its risk coverage.
Benchmarking for stronger programs
The article also references findings from the 2025 LRN Global Study on Ethics & Compliance Program Maturity:
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25% of organizations lack the resources to conduct internal audits
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Only 37% perform annual internal audits
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High-impact programs are 1.8× more likely to use benchmarking data compared to mid-impact programs
This reinforces the importance of regular internal checks and industry benchmarking to understand performance and strengthen compliance outcomes.
Why this matters
Eric’s insights highlight a critical truth: compliance programs can’t just be reactive check-the-box exercises. By leveraging high-quality data, organizations can enhance transparency, improve employee well-being, and transform compliance into a driver of strategic advantage.
Read the full article by Eric Morehead on The Cloud Awards.
