Which of the following best describes the approach of a compliance program?

A compliance program is best described as ongoing and adaptable because it must continuously evolve to respond to changing regulations, operational risks, and new compliance requirements. An effective compliance program is not a one-time effort, but rather a dynamic system that incorporates regular training, monitoring, and assessments to ensure it remains effective and relevant.

The adaptability aspect is crucial, as it allows organizations to address emerging compliance issues and to modify policies and procedures in response to new laws, regulations, or industry standards. This ongoing process of evaluation and adjustment helps to proactively mitigate risks and ensures that the organization maintains a strong compliance posture over time.

In contrast, a temporary and fixed approach would imply that compliance efforts are not sustained, which could lead to vulnerabilities. A static and unchanging mindset would fail to recognize that regulations and best practices can evolve, thereby risking non-compliance. Limiting compliance efforts to only when audits occur would be insufficient, as compliance is a continuous responsibility that extends beyond audit cycles.