HBS Completes SSAE 16 Type 2 Examination

Heartland Business Systems recently completed a successful SSAE 16 Type 2 examination for its state-of-the-art Data Center, performed by an independent CPA firm. SSAE 16 certification is a strong benchmark and indicator of established, credible service providers. The examination was performed by an independent CPA firm, BrightLine CPAs & Associates, for the scope of service, which includes Data Center Colocation and Hosting Services.

SSAE 16 is a new standard designed to replace SAS 70. Both are internationally recognized auditing standards developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and represent that a service organization has been through an in-depth audit of their control activities, which includes controls over information technology and related processes. SSAE 16 is intended to create a more global, unified standard by more closely aligning the U.S. with international standards.

SSAE stands for Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements. SSAE No. 16, Reporting on Controls at a Service Organization (AICPA, Professional Standards, AT sec. 801) is an attestation standard that establishes the requirements and guidance for reporting on controls at a service organization relevant to user entities’ internal control over financial reporting. SSAE No. 16 superseded the SAS 70 audit standard in mid-2011.  It is the adopted version of the International Standards for Assurance Engagements (ISAE) No. 3402, Assurance Reports on Controls at a Service Organization, for use in the United States. The controls addressed in SSAE No. 16 are those that a service organization implements to prevent, or detect and correct, errors or omissions in the information it provides to user entities.

Heartland’s successful completion of the SSAE 16 examination includes adherence to standards regarding the security of its hosting environment, as well as the effectiveness of its support processes, and underlines Heartland’s long-term commitment to standards that safeguard customers’ data.

According to Peter Helander, Heartland President and CEO, "Adoption of cloud services by our current and future customers and partners will help their organizations align IT initiatives with their business goals. By reducing a client’s IT operational costs, Heartland can introduce and implement new technology that will support the client’s ability to innovate and create sustained profitability and growth. Heartland’s cloud offerings will help many of our partners and customers accomplish that very goal."