Operational resilience has never been more important or more visible. With frameworks like DORA, E-21, CPS 230 and others raising the regulatory bar, and stakeholders expecting clear oversight and fast response, financial institutions need tools that can keep up.
But not all platforms are built for resilience. Generalist tools and patchwork or homegrown solutions may seem convenient at first, but they often add friction (not to mention costs) over the long term.
The Hidden Costs of Generalist Tools
Many companies, even those faced with regulations, are still managing resilience through a mix of legacy systems, internal workarounds, and generalist software. These solutions can get the job done to a point (until they can’t), but they lack the ability to deliver the results that are required of a modern company.
Frequent obstacles in resilience execution include:
- Disconnected systems that make it difficult to share information and coordinate across teams
- Incomplete or inconsistent data that weakens governance and decision-making
- Manual workarounds like spreadsheets that slow response times and introduce risk
- Initial cost savings that are offset by ongoing customization and maintenance demands
- Makeshift solutions using existing tools that don’t quite hit the mark
And as requirements evolve, like maintaining a Register of Information under DORA, these tools rarely scale without strain.
Why Purpose-Built Platforms Are Different
Purpose-built platforms are designed specifically for teams across continuity, risk, compliance, and operations to work together. They connect people and information in one system, so teams can act faster and make better decisions under pressure. They also come pre-aligned with regulatory frameworks like DORA, which means less scrambling when it’s time to demonstrate compliance.
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- Platform purpose-built for operational resilience
- Shared workflows that bring together risk, IT, continuity, and third-party teams
- Real-time data that’s ready when leadership needs it
- Structured testing, reporting, and evidence gathering
- Fewer workarounds, fewer spreadsheets, and a lot more clarity
These enhancements strengthen the way the business operates by boosting coordination and sharpening accountability, which supports more informed decision-making across teams.
Five Signs You’ve Outgrown Generic Tools
Unsure if your current approach is still the right fit? These signs may indicate it’s time to reassess your tools:
- You struggle to produce timely resilience metrics for leadership
- Manual tasks persist despite previous digital investments
- Audit reviews highlight incomplete or inconsistent documentation
- Customizing your current platform is draining your team’s resources
- Core tasks (like maintaining your Register of Information) are hard to manage over time
If any of these feel familiar, your current tools may be creating more friction than value.
Invest in What’s Built to Last
Fusion is purpose-built for operational resilience. Our platform brings continuity, risk, and regulatory programs into one connected view—helping teams respond with clarity and confidence. Resilience is a long-term capability that depends on having the right people, effective processes, and a strong platform to bring them all together.
Generic tools weren’t designed for this work. Purpose-built solutions like Fusion simplify complexity, improve coordination, and help organizations keep pace with evolving regulatory and operational demands. If your current tools are starting to feel more like workarounds than solutions, it may be time to reassess. Reach out to us today to explore how Fusion’s solutions can support your resilience journey.
Authors
