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CASE STUDY
Strengthening Compliance Foundations for Scaling PaaS Innovator
The client
A fast-growing PaaS company specializing in AI-powered virtual computing solutions faced a pivotal moment in their growth trajectory. To attract enterprise customers and meet contractual obligations in new markets, they needed to formalize their security and compliance programs. However, like many high -growth companies, their internal expertise was focused on delivering innovation and scaling core operations, leaving limited capacity to navigate compliance frameworks and prepare for audits. Recognizing the operational complexity of meeting ongoing security and compliance standards, the client sought a seasoned partner to streamline the process and help build a strong and scalable compliance program.
The challenge
Customer expectations were shifting. More prospects were requesting proof of security and data protection controls and safeguards, and formal compliance commitments with established frameworks like System and Organization Controls (SOC 2) for service organizations. The clients’ small internal team, while technically strong, lacked the bandwidth and compliance expertise to design, implement, and maintain a secure and auditable environment, especially under the time pressures of sales cycles, product innovation, and delivery.
They needed:
- A full-service compliance partner that could plug in quickly, offer both strategic guidance and technical execution, and act as an extension of their team to save them precious time
- A tailored roadmap to their compliance framework, beginning with SOC 2, they needed support that was informed by real-world audit readiness experience
- Support that scales with their needs, not just during the audit window, but beyond – with continuous oversight advisory, and execution across all compliance and security functions
While the initial goal was to obtain a SOC 2 attestation of compliance, the leadership team was thinking long-term. They wanted to build a security and compliance foundation that would support future growth, customer trust and expansion into regulated industries like healthcare and finance.
The solution
Stepping in as a hands-on, strategic compliance partner, our multi-phase engagement included:
SOC 2 Type 1 & Type 2 →
We began by conducting a comprehensive gap assessment to benchmark their current security posture against SOC 2 requirements and its applicable Trust Service Criteria. Using this, we developed a step-by-step compliance roadmap that aligned with their service, offering, infrastructure, and current environment. Once gaps were identified, our team led remediation efforts across process, policy, and technical layers – preparing them for successful Type 1 then Type 2 audits. SOC 2 Type 1 audit was passed on the first attempt with zero exceptions, and we anticipate Type 2 audit this summer to follow suit.
Compliance Automation Platform Implementation →
To support their need for efficiency and visibility, we deployed and optimized Drata as their compliance automation platform. This empowered real-time evidence collection, streamlined document management, and continuous monitoring—freeing up valuable team time and ensuring audit readiness was built into daily operations.
Additional Security Services →
As our relationship grew, the client entrusted us to lead more advanced security initiatives that both compliment and streamline their efforts, including:
Penetration Testing to validate and strengthen their external defenses.
Vulnerability Management regular scans to uncover and address new threats.
Security Questionnaires to help streamline procurement and vendor assessments, reducing sales cycle friction.
Security Architecture Support including the implementation of identity and access management tools such as Okta, delivered by Elastify’s network security specialists.
The outcome
SOC 2 Type 1 Compliant → Achieved on the first attempt, with no audit exceptions. Elastify supported the entire audit lifecycle working with auditors directly and keeping the progress moving along.
*In Progress* SOC 2 Type 2 → Similar process to Type 1, the client is on track to achieving SOC 2 Type 2 in summer 2025 in their anticipated timeframe.
Automated & Optimized Compliance Program → Fully integrated on Drata, reducing manual lift and increasing transparency. Elastify continues to manage this platform on their behalf.
Ongoing Governance → Through Elastify’s Compliance as a Service (CaaS) program, we ensure continuous optimization and alignment with the frameworks.
Key Outcomes:
- Faster Sales Cycles
- Stronger Infrastructure
- Ability to Service Regulated Industries
- No More Compliance Headaches or Wasted Time
Looking Ahead
Having established a solid foundation, the client is now focusing on achieving compliance with additional security and data protection standards. This preparation will enable them to navigate more complex regulatory environments, support international growth, and enter new (and highly regulated) industries. We look forward to continuing our support on their journey, enhancing their security and compliance programs to reach the next level.