"The Automating SOX Compliance Benchmark Report" found that companies can achieve greater results from their SOX review process by using a combination of business process analysis, project management, and changes to technology to go beyond the minimum requirements imposed by SOX to significantly improve operating results while introducing continuous business improvements.

"Firms where the CEO, CFO, and the board are directly involved in the day-to-day tasks of SOX compliance are operating as laggards," said Jim Hurley Aberdeen's vice president of risk, security and compliance and author of the report. "By contrast, performance leaders have already pushed responsibility for SOX compliance down in the organization."

According to the report, firms placing responsibility for SOX compliance onto a Chief Risk or Chief Compliance officer are well ahead of other organizations in reducing deficiencies. What's more companies are combining SOX with business process improvement programs to deliver better results.

"If your company does not take this opportunity to leverage SOX to improve inefficient business procedures," continued Hurley, "it is going to face stiff competition in the future that are operating at full throttle and with complete balance."

The Automating SOX Compliance Benchmark Report explores the challenges and opportunities presented by SOX compliance. It quantifies the performance improvements and financial payback service-oriented companies can expect from SOX compliance automation and recommends courses of action for firms of all maturity levels.