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Digital compliance with confidence

We integrate software, AI and digital systems securely into your compliance framework.

Dennis Dietzel – Compliance Specialist and Consultant
Dennis Dietzel Compliance Specialist / Consultant

Which digital systems require which evidence?

Digital compliance starts with the right classification.

We assess digital products and computerised systems within their specific regulatory context. What matters is the function a system performs and the impact it has on regulated processes.

An ERP system, an electronic QMS or production software may therefore be subject to different requirements than medical device software or AI-based applications.

How we create clarity

01

Understand the use case

We first clarify which system is being used and what purpose it serves. The key factor is how the system is actually used within the organisation.

02

Assess regulatory relevance

We then assess the system's impact on quality, safety and regulated processes. This determines its regulatory significance.

03

Define the requirements

Based on the intended use and regulatory context, we identify which requirements are genuinely relevant. This avoids applying the same requirements to every system.

04

Determine the right level of evidence

On this basis, we define which evidence and controls are required and the appropriate level of detail for their implementation.

Key elements of Digital Compliance
01

CSV, CSA & GAMP 5

The required evidence depends on the use case and associated risk. GAMP 5 provides an established framework, while CSA complements this approach particularly for software used in production and quality management through risk-based assurance.

02

Data Integrity

Regulatory-relevant data must remain reliable, traceable and appropriately protected. Depending on the system, this also includes suitable role and access control concepts.

03

System Boundaries & Interfaces

Interfaces, data flows and dependencies help determine which parts of a system are regulatory-relevant. Clearly defined system boundaries make it easier to establish the necessary scope in a targeted and efficient way.

Integrating software, cybersecurity and AI throughout the product lifecycle

Three perspectives that need to be considered together from development through to ongoing operation.

Digital compliance does not end with the initial release. Requirements and evidence evolve together with the system. Software changes can raise new security concerns, AI models require ongoing monitoring, and technical changes must be implemented in a controlled manner. That is why we consider software, cybersecurity and AI across the same lifecycle.

Perspective
01

Classify

02

Develop

03

Verify & validate

04

Release

05

Operate & change

Software

Qualification,
classification and intended use

Requirements,
architecture and lifecycle planning

Software testing, traceability and validation

Configuration,
versioning and release evidence

Maintenance and configuration control

Cybersecurity

Assets, operating environment and protection needs

Security requirements and security by design

Security verification and vulnerability assessment

Residual risk, secure configuration and release

Vulnerability management,
updates and incident management

Artificial Intelligence

AI use case, role and intended application

Data requirements, model controls and data controls

Performance,
test data and validation

Human oversight and release criteria

Monitoring, drift
and change control

The matrix illustrates how software, cybersecurity and AI extend across the same five lifecycle phases. While the specific activities differ, they need to remain aligned whenever changes are made to the system.

Example

AI-based medical device software

If an AI model is modified after release, the change may affect software, performance and cybersecurity at the same time. The impact therefore needs to be assessed, the required testing defined and the change documented in a transparent and traceable manner.

Digital compliance and computerised systems
Digital Compliance

Identify regulatory overlaps at an early stage

Digital systems can be subject to several regulatory areas at the same time.

A system may support a regulated business process, qualify as a regulated product itself or additionally fall within the scope of horizontal digital regulation. What matters is therefore not only the technology, but also the function the system performs and the role the company assumes.

Regulatory framework

Three regulatory layers may apply at the same time

The regulatory requirements for a digital system often arise from several different layers. Process requirements, product regulation and horizontal digital regulation therefore need to be considered together while remaining clearly distinguished.

01

Business & Process Systems

ERP, QMS, LIMS and production systems often support regulated processes. The focus is on controlled use, reliable data and traceable access. Depending on the regulatory environment, frameworks such as GAMP 5, EU GMP Annex 11 or 21 CFR Part 11 may be relevant.

02

Digital Products

Where software itself forms part of a regulated product, additional product-specific requirements apply. For Medical Device Software, these include classification, the software lifecycle and risk management. Depending on the product, MDR or IVDR as well as IEC 62304 and ISO 14971 may be relevant.

03

Horizontal Digital Regulation

Cross-sector legislation such as the AI Act, Cyber Resilience Act or NIS2 may also apply. The resulting obligations depend on the intended use, the company's role and the applicable risk classification. These requirements complement existing product and process regulations.

In practice

Where regulatory overlaps occur most frequently

In practice, regulatory layers often converge when new technologies are integrated into existing regulated processes or when digital products are expanded with additional functions.

01

We use AI in a regulated process.

Typically relevant
AI Act QMS / GxP Data Protection

In addition to requirements arising from the existing quality or GxP system, further obligations may apply to the AI system. Key factors include the company's role, the applicable risk category and the way the AI system is integrated into the process.

02

We develop Medical Device Software.

Typically relevant
MDR / IVDR IEC 62304 ISO 14971

Product regulation, software development and risk management need to be aligned. Depending on the product functions, additional cybersecurity requirements or obligations relating to artificial intelligence may also apply.

03

We implement a cloud-based QMS or production system.

Typically relevant
CSV / CSA Data Integrity Supplier Management

In addition to validation or assurance, data integrity, access control and the role of external providers need to be considered. Especially for cloud solutions, supplier management therefore becomes an integral part of the compliance framework.

04

We manufacture a connected product.

Typically relevant
MDR / IVDR Cybersecurity CRA / NIS2

Connected products combine product regulation with cybersecurity requirements. Depending on the product and the company's role, additional requirements such as the CRA or NIS2 may also become relevant.

Implementing Digital Compliance

Which requirements apply to your system?

We help you identify regulatory overlaps, distinguish between relevant requirements and translate them into a clear and practical implementation approach.

Your Direct Contact

I am happy to assist you personally.

Szilárd Varga
Managing Director