Which document commonly outlines an organization’s commitment to compliance?

The compliance policy or compliance management plan serves as a foundational document that articulates an organization’s commitment to adhering to relevant laws, regulations, standards, and internal policies. This document typically outlines the framework for compliance management within the organization, detailing responsibilities, processes, and measures in place to ensure compliance is maintained.

Organizations use this document to establish the tone for compliance and governance, demonstrating to stakeholders including employees, customers, and regulatory bodies that they prioritize compliance throughout their operations. It also provides guidelines on how to identify, assess, and mitigate compliance risks, ensuring that everyone in the organization understands their role in upholding compliance standards.

While a business continuity plan focuses more on maintaining critical business functions during a crisis, and an employee handbook provides guidelines for employees regarding workplace policies and practices, the compliance policy specifically addresses compliance-related issues. An annual report typically summarizes an organization's performance and financial status rather than its compliance commitments. Thus, the compliance policy or compliance management plan is the most appropriate document to outline an organization’s commitment to compliance.