Successful traits of a CIO equal successful SAS70 audits (Part 1) – SAS 70

If you have to conduct a SAS70 audit within your organization, are you ready? As a CIO, do you have the necessary leadership skills to make an audit a success?

A recent survey by TechRepublic lists the following criteria that an effective CIO or CSO must have in order to lead a 21^st century information technology (IT) team. These characteristics are, but not necessarily in order of priority:

Communication skills

Be a visionary

Able to deal with office politics effectively

Have an understanding of financials

Leverage key technologies

Ability to build a strong team

As a CIO, these characteristics are required to be an effective leader. In addition, these same characteristics will make you an effective CIO or CSO when a SAS70 audit is conducted. From the initial planning and scoping phases of the audit, you must take the initiative to develop a strong relationship with your auditor. Don’t be afraid to tell him all the bad and the good when discussing your IT operations. By developing an open rapport, and having frank discussions, you will be able to quickly develop a lasting bond with your auditor. Do you have this type of relationship with your auditor?