June 19, 2025

Risk Busters: Why CROs Need Smarter Tools (Like, Yesterday!)

SPM Mythbusters Series

3 min read

Key Takeaways

Find out how true risk management means actively fixing issues, which requires robust project management capabilities.
See how governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) tools require constant updates to stay aligned with regulations and threats.
Discover how CROs need both powerful platforms and strategic vendor partnerships.

Your chief risk officer (CRO) isn't just checking boxes. They're on a mission to safeguard your entire operation. But here’s the kicker: Identifying a risk is only half the battle. The real work? Fixing it. That's where things get tricky—and why CROs desperately need the right gear.

Beyond just paperwork

Imagine a CRO at a bank realizing that just knowing about risks wasn't cutting it. They needed a system to remediate them. Because fixing a risk isn't accomplished with a casual chat—it’s a full-blown project.

It means planning, coordinating resources, and tracking progress. If your current tools only help you list risks, you're missing the action stage, which is where CROs truly shine. It's about being proactive, not just compliant.

The antivirus analogy for software

Risk management software isn't a "set it and forget it" deal. Think of it like your antivirus program: The core software is cool, but the constant updates (new rules for new threats) are what make it truly valuable.

For governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) tools, this means staying on top of endless regulatory changes and frameworks. If the software vendor isn't keeping that content fresh, their tool is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. This continuous "service" model is where many solutions fall short.

Finding your tech co-pilot

CRO teams are often small, yet their responsibilities are massive. When an auditor flags an issue (a "finding"), or a real breach happens, it's go time. These teams need smart automation to wrangle resources, send surveys, and coordinate the fix.

The challenge?

Finding a software partner that not only has a solid platform but also provides the ongoing regulatory content and deep consulting expertise. Because without that, even the best software won't turn a risk manager into a true risk buster.

Tag(s): ValueOps , Clarity , Strategic Portfolio Management , Risk Management , Chief Risk Officer , SPM

Jason Kotlinski

Jason Kotlinski serves as Product Manager for Clarity with clients all across the globe. He is responsible for customer-facing aspects of product management, leading development of key marketable features, and assisting senior management with backlog prioritization and new feature definition.

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