Compliance Perspectives Kristy Grant-Hart on Due Diligence Questionnaires [Podcast]
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Oct 7, 2025 Kristy Grant-Hart, an author and compliance expert, dives into the pitfalls of poorly designed due diligence questionnaires. She emphasizes the importance of asking targeted questions that genuinely inform decision-making, rather than overwhelming with unnecessary detail. Kristy shares insights on who should contribute to these questionnaires and discusses key risk areas like bribery and privacy. Her rule of thumb? If the answer won't alter your decision, don't ask the question. Discover how to streamline due diligence for more effective outcomes.
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Absurd Questionnaire Demands
- Kristy recalled a questionnaire demanding the CEO's bank statements for three months, which she found absurd.
- She also described requests for company-wide criminal certifications that are impossible for large firms to truthfully provide.
Fear Drives Overly Broad Questionnaires
- Kristy attributes bloated questionnaires to fear and overly conservative legal/compliance cultures.
- Asking every question is often self-protective but fails the business and compliance goals.
Include Risk Owners In Questionnaire Design
- Involve the people who own the risk being reviewed when drafting due diligence questionnaires.
- Ensure procurement or the relevant risk owner limits question volume and scope appropriately.