With modern workplaces of today increasingly relying on technology, systems, and the internet for their daily operations, it is critical to adhere to standards on how data collected by businesses is used, stored and secured.
The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) is the international and non-governmental body that develops and maintains industrial and commercial standards. It plays an important role in facilitating world trade by providing common standards among different countries.
In Australia in particular, organisations are under increasing scrutiny about how they are protecting and using their business data. It is critical that information about employees, clients, products, processes and strategy remains secure.
Standards manage data security
ISO 27001, one of the major standards created by the ISO, enables organisations to manage the security of their data, including the personal details of their clients and employees, financial information, intellectual property, etc by dictating a best practice methodology to comply with.
While ISO management system standards are not compulsory, there are many benefits found in compliance, and many public and private businesses across a range of industries are now specifying compliance with ISO 27001 as a legal requirement in their contracts and service agreements with their providers.
So, let's take a closer look at the ISO 27001 standard, and what's involved in ISO 27001 certification.
What is ISO 27001?
ISO 27001 is an internationally recognised standard that sets the requirements for a best-practice information security management system (ISMS). The requirements guide organisations, regardless of size or industry, on how to build, manage, and improve their ISMS.
The ISO 27001 standard is considered the benchmark for maintaining customer and stakeholder confidentiality and data security.
What is an information security management system (ISMS)?
The ISO explains that an ISMS is a "systematic approach to managing sensitive company information so that it remains secure. It includes people, processes and IT systems by applying a risk management process. It can help small, medium and large businesses in any sector keep information assets secure."
An ISMS is focused predominantly on risk management, and when an organisation looks to be ISO 27001 certified, an ISMS is the first point of reference used to determine its level of compliance.
What is ISO 27001 certification?
As we mentioned above, there is increasing pressure on organisations to demonstrate that they operate with best-practice information security and data management. Gaining certification in the ISO 27001 standard shows that an organisation has identified any risks or areas of weakness and implemented security measures to protect its internal and customer data.
In order to gain certification, a business' ISMS is audited by an independent consultant to evaluate internal processes against the standards' recommended best practices.
The audit then reports on the processes in various departments including Human Resources, Information Technology, Research and Development, and Cybersecurity before issuing a certificate to confirm that the ISMS complies with the best practices of the standard.
What are the benefits of gaining ISO 27001 certification?
- Increases tender and/or funding opportunities for an organisation where certification is required.
- Ensures relevant legal requirements or third party obligations are met.
- Establishes trust amongst customers and stakeholders.
- Protects your organisation and reduces the risk of cybersecurity threats.
Does your business need to be quality certified? Diamond IT can help.
Our team of Business Technology Consultants are currently working with key organisations across a range of sectors to ensure their ISO 27001 preparedness. Becoming ISO 27001 compliant doesn’t have to be a difficult process. Our team are here to guide you through. Contact us today on 1300 307 907.
