Compliance audits are essential for ensuring that businesses follow regulations, protect data, and meet internal standards. With remote work and digital operations becoming the norm, traditional on-site audits are being replaced by virtual compliance audits. These rely on specialized software to manage documentation, assess risks, and create reports efficiently without requiring physical presence.
The top five tools for virtual compliance audits are Smartsheet, MetricStream, ZenGRC, AuditBoard, and Resolver. Each platform simplifies auditing processes, strengthens transparency, and supports compliance across industries.
In the sections below, I will explain the strengths of each tool, highlight their key features, and show why they are considered leaders in virtual compliance auditing.
Smartsheet
Smartsheet is a cloud-based platform that combines compliance tracking, audit management, and collaboration tools. It helps teams organize workflows, manage checklists, and keep audit documentation in one secure location.
Its main strength is flexibility, allowing businesses to customize templates, automate reminders, and track progress in real time.
This versatility makes Smartsheet useful for organizations managing multiple compliance standards across departments.
Why Do Auditors Prefer Smartsheet?
Smartsheet allows real-time collaboration, enabling auditors and employees to upload evidence and update tasks instantly. According to Smartsheet, secure file sharing and role-based access strengthen audit transparency and data protection.
What Types Of Compliance Does It Support?
Smartsheet adapts to ISO certifications, SOC 2 audits, GDPR compliance, and internal reviews. Its templates make it suitable for both small businesses and multinational enterprises.
MetricStream
MetricStream is a leading governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) platform widely used in highly regulated industries. It centralizes risk and compliance data, offering visibility into controls and audit status through interactive dashboards.
Its ability to integrate risk, compliance, and audit workflows makes it ideal for complex organizations.
This makes MetricStream especially valuable for enterprises that manage multiple regulatory frameworks simultaneously.
Why Is MetricStream Effective For Virtual Audits?
MetricStream automates evidence collection, tracks regulatory updates, and streamlines reporting. According to MetricStream, it reduces audit preparation time and supports continuous compliance.
Which Industries Benefit Most From It?
Financial services, healthcare, energy, and manufacturing industries rely heavily on MetricStream due to their strict compliance environments and complex audit requirements.
ZenGRC
ZenGRC is designed to simplify compliance management for both small and large organizations. It automates audit tasks, provides easy-to-read dashboards, and supports ongoing risk tracking.
Its intuitive interface makes it easy for teams to adopt quickly without extensive training.
This balance of simplicity and scalability has made ZenGRC a popular choice for technology-driven companies.
What Sets ZenGRC Apart?
ZenGRC integrates with tools like Jira, Slack, and Google Workspace, creating a seamless experience for teams already using these platforms. According to ZenGRC, this integration reduces audit complexity and increases efficiency.
What Compliance Standards Does It Cover?
ZenGRC supports SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, ISO 27001, and PCI DSS. Its versatility makes it especially attractive for SaaS providers and tech companies that face strict data security obligations.
AuditBoard
AuditBoard is dedicated audit management software that has grown into one of the most trusted solutions for internal and compliance audits. It streamlines the audit lifecycle, from planning to reporting, while promoting collaboration.
Its user-friendly design and automation capabilities make audits faster, more consistent, and more accurate.
Because of its adaptability, AuditBoard is used by organizations of different sizes across multiple industries.
Why Do Companies Choose AuditBoard?
AuditBoard offers risk assessment tools, automated reporting, and complete audit trail tracking. According to AuditBoard, these features minimize manual errors and improve transparency.
What Types Of Organizations Benefit Most?
Mid-sized firms and large enterprises benefit from AuditBoard’s scalability. Its collaborative features are particularly useful for teams managing recurring internal audits.
Resolver
Resolver is an integrated platform that combines risk, compliance, and incident management in one system. It provides strong visualization tools, making it easier for executives and auditors to track compliance performance.
Its flexibility makes it suitable for both operational audits and regulatory compliance reviews.
This unified approach helps organizations respond quickly to compliance issues while maintaining clear oversight.
Why Is Resolver Valuable For Virtual Audits?
Resolver connects risk data with compliance requirements, enabling streamlined investigations and reporting. According to Resolver, this integration helps reduce duplication of effort and improves audit efficiency.
Which Industries Use Resolver Most?
Resolver is widely adopted in banking, insurance, government, and technology sectors, where strong reporting and quick regulatory response are critical.
Conclusion
Virtual compliance audits are becoming the standard as organizations move toward digital-first operations. Tools like Smartsheet, MetricStream, ZenGRC, AuditBoard, and Resolver enable businesses to maintain transparency, reduce manual work, and meet compliance obligations more efficiently.
For companies aiming to modernize their audit processes, investing in one of these platforms ensures accurate, secure, and effective virtual compliance audits across industries.
