Understanding Risk and Control Self-Assessments: Key Steps and Benefits

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, navigating risks isn’t just a necessity — it’s a strategic advantage. Enter the Risk and Control Self-Assessment (RCSA), a dynamic tool that empowers organisations to take control of their risk management journey. 

 

The RCSA process is designed to identify operational risks and evaluate the effectiveness of existing controls. Integrated within the broader governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) framework, the goal of the RCSA is to ensure that all business objectives are not just met but exceeded with confidence. The RCSA helps organisations create a resilient control environment and precisely achieve their strategic targets by thoroughly examining risks and controls.

 

In an RCSA strategy, keeping stakeholders informed is paramount. The risk management committee and board of directors receive regular, high-level reports on RCSA activities to stay updated. Business unit and function heads are responsible for executing the RCSA process in their areas. And internal audit managers provide independent assessments to ensure compliance with RCSA policy, check control effectiveness, and confirm the accuracy of ratings.

 

RCSAs use the expertise of business leaders who assess control design and performance through self-assessment questionnaires and facilitated workshops that evaluate both informal (soft) and traditional (hard) controls. Each RCSA entity analyses workflows, documents the control environment, and identifies and evaluates inherent risks from sources like audit reports and regulatory reviews. Assessments determine control effectiveness and risk ratings. Identified weaknesses are then promptly addressed with detailed action plans.

 

Learn more about the benefits of RCSAs and steps for performing them in your copy of Risk and Control Self-Assessment 101.