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Blacksmith vs. ControlMap: Practical Comparison

Both Blacksmith and ControlMap are advanced compliance platforms empowering MSPs to deliver scalable, profitable compliance and cybersecurity services. 

Shared Strengths

  • Both platforms are purpose-built for MSPs, with robust compliance management and automation features for multi-client oversight.

  • Each supports multi-tenant functionality, central policy management, audit-ready documentation, risk register operations, and security framework mapping (though you’ll need to pay attention to ControlMap’s tiers).

  • Policy templates and automated roadmaps streamline compliance workflows, reducing manual effort for MSPs.
cynomi or blacksmith for MSP compliance

Where Blacksmith Adds Value

  • Created by compliance experts with direct input from MSPs — professional insight is built into every tool and policy.

  • Fully in-house development for agile updates and superior tailoring to MSP needs.

  • Delivers actionable compliance roadmaps, not blank frameworks, making onboarding frictionless.

  • Automated expert-authored policies can be rapidly customized for individual clients.

  • Platform prioritizes continuous risk reduction and security improvement, not just documentation.

  • Minimal resource overhead — streamlined management with no heavy meetings or onboarding bottlenecks.

  • Built for MSP profitability and scalability, so you can add clients, grow services, and reinforce compliance expertise.

Where ControlMap Excels

  • Gap assessment and automated evidence collection streamline audit prep and regulatory readiness.​

  • Tiered pricing, including a free entry-level version for MSPs starting compliance delivery (though features are quite limited).

  • Supports assessment and compliance across 60+ global frameworks (NIS2, DORA, etc.)

Feature Comparison

Conclusion

Both Blacksmith and ControlMap fundamentally strengthen MSPs in compliance automation, risk management, and premium client reporting. Blacksmith specializes in actionable, expert-led roadmaps, making compliance simple and profitable for SMB-minded MSPs. ControlMap excels at multi-framework scale, bulk delivery, and advanced evidence management — good for MSPs managing complex or diverse client portfolios. The optimal choice depends on service focus, framework needs, and team expertise.

When comparing Blacksmith to ControlMap, make sure you’re comparing their Pro Plan to Blacksmith’s single flat rate. ControlMap’s other tiers are limited in features and usability.

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