Chapter two
What makes a
good ISMS?
To align with ISO 27001 you need an information security management system (ISMS). In this chapter we’ll look into what that means, what to look for when creating one, and how to achieve certification.
What is ISO 27001?
It may be the world’s best-known standard on information security management, but what does it do?
What is ISO 27001?
It may be the world’s best-known standard on information security management, but what does it do?
What is ISO 27001?
It may be the world’s best-known standard on information security management, but what does it do?
What is ISO 27001?
It may be the world’s best-known standard on information security management, but what does it do?
Why do you need an ISMS?
An essential element of your risk management strategy
An ISMS is an essential part of the compliance and certification process. It’s difficult to achieve compliance or certification without one.
Implementing an ISMS is essential for any organisation as it showcases its commitment to information security. An ISMS outlines the procedures for identifying and addressing potential threats or opportunities related to the organisation’s information and assets. Fundamentally, an ISMS is an essential element of a company’s overall risk management strategy and helps to ensure the highest possible standards of information security, data confidentiality and company success.
Sam Peters, IO’s Chief Product Officer breaks down why an ISMS is essential for modern organisations
Why is ISO 27001 so important?
To achieve success quickly,avoid these common pitfalls
For organisations looking to achieve ISO 27001 quickly and realise the operational, financial and business benefits that certification delivers, avoiding common pitfalls is essential.
Don’t rely on gap analysis
Instead of relying on a traditional gap analysis, consider using a pre-configured service that can immediately address common gaps. This will save valuable time and effort and provide an immediate return on investment.
Don’t rely on a document toolkit
When managing your ISMS, avoid a basic toolkit approach. Instead, look for a solution that allows for easy creation, communication, control, and collaboration – so you can approach ISO 27001 audits with confidence.
Don’t start from scratch
When building an ISMS, starting from scratch isn’t the most efficient approach. It’s similar to developing a bespoke sales or accounting system. Instead, look for off-the-shelf products that can save time, effort and budget.
IO has transformed the way we manage our ISO certifications. We’ve achieved a more efficient, centralised approach to managing compliance, allowing our team to focus on continuous improvement and proactive risk management, rather than administrative tasks.
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Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder, Company
Key elements of an ISMS
The building blocks for an effective and reliable ISMS
If you ISMS doesn’t have these characteristics as an absolute baseline, you’ll end up with a less effective platform and working much harder than you need to.
Works with your existing systems
Maximize efficiency by utilising integrations to streamline data collection and seamlessly connect with the software you already use daily.
IO sits works with your tools, with built in integrations for popular systems, plus a custom API to create your own bespoke integrations
Security confidence
You’ll hold some very sensitive information in your ISMS so avoid software solutions with weak security.
IO sits works with your tools, with built in integrations for popular systems, plus a custom API to create your own bespoke integrations
Transparent
Impress your auditor with an ISMS that shows your working as it evolves, making it easy to record and track changes.
IO sits works with your tools, with built in integrations for popular systems, plus a custom API to create your own bespoke integrations
Affordable
Prove your return on investment with an ISMS that’s cost effective to implement and operate.
IO sits works with your tools, with built in integrations for popular systems, plus a custom API to create your own bespoke integrations
A single source of truth
Make sure you choose a single software solution that’s futureproofed for your ongoing compliance needs.
IO sits works with your tools, with built in integrations for popular systems, plus a custom API to create your own bespoke integrations
Always accessible
Your ISMS should be available to authorised parties securely, when and where they want it, with backup and support as needed
IO sits works with your tools, with built in integrations for popular systems, plus a custom API to create your own bespoke integrations
Easy to use
Keep it simple – complicated management systems are costly to use and encourage noncompliance. Choose a solution with easy navigation and clear linking to help stakeholders find their way.
IO sits works with your tools, with built in integrations for popular systems, plus a custom API to create your own bespoke integrations
Insightful and actionable
An ISMS with pre-configured reporting and reminders will help you and your stakeholders make better decisions.
IO sits works with your tools, with built in integrations for popular systems, plus a custom API to create your own bespoke integrations
How do I get to certification?
The ultimate way to demonstrate your commitment to information security
By creating an Information Security Management System (ISMS) that follows the ISO 27001 standard, you can be sure that your organisation is taking all necessary measures to protect sensitive information.
With our help, you’ll pass through two rigorous external audits with ease, after which your auditor will recommend you for certification to the relevant accreditation body. Once certified, you’ll enjoy the benefits of ISO 27001 for three years, with regular internal and external audits to ensure that you’re always in compliance.
How long does it take?
We get asked this question a lot, and the truth is that it depends on two main factors – where you start and what approach you take. In our recent State of Information Security Report, over 32% of organisations stated that it took them 1–5 years to achieve certification. Over 46%** of organisations use spreadsheets and toolkits to deliver the project. In comparison, you can achieve success more quickly by using a pre-configured ISMS rather than by building your own, with the average time to complete sitting at less than six months (25%) and between 6-12 months (21%).*
Source: The state of information security report 2024
ISO 27001 certification process
