ISO 27001 is a standard that specifies the requirements for an information security management system. Organizations choose to implement it for security and reputational reasons, but not every organization is convinced of the need for certification. In this article, we explain the benefits of ISO 27001 certification and how it can be obtained.

Before we discuss whether it is worth pursuing ISO/IEC 27001 certification, let’s say a few words about the standard itself. The acronym ISO comes from the “International Organization for Standardization”. The organization’s role is to develop quality standards that apply to virtually every field that modern businesses and organizations deal with. The ISO federation is made up of independent members (one from each country) and is not subject to the influence of governments, corporations, organizations, or entrepreneurs.

The ISO 27001 standard is currently the most recognized international standard for information management systems. It precisely defines the requirements for the implementation, maintenance, monitoring, and improvement of this system, allowing for the protection of data, including financial and legal information, and preventing, for example, the identification of individuals.

The ISO/IEC 27001 standard regulates the principles of security policies, asset classification, working conditions, access control to information systems, its maintenance, and development.

An organization that has implemented an information security management system in accordance with the ISO/IEC 27001 standard certifies that its security policy meets the specific and stringent requirements for processed data. This enhances its reputation because it demonstrates that the organization adequately secures information and assets. Furthermore, if the organization holds a certification, it increases its chances of securing new, valuable contracts, such as public procurement contracts, where this certificate is often required.

The need to protect data within an organization seems quite obvious, especially when we talk about data such as financial, personnel, personal, or those related to professional confidentiality. The first association with the necessity of applying special data protection procedures is often government offices, hospitals, and other public entities. However, the fact is that information security management also applies to companies and organizations, both small and private, as well as those dependent on the state. The question is, should ISO 27001 implementation also include certification?

The ISO 27001 certificate is becoming increasingly popular, which is encouraging because it proves that more and more companies are realizing the role that information security plays. However, this does not diminish its prestige—in fact, quite the opposite. It is recognizable and seen as a mark of quality, which only those organizations that have successfully passed the rigorous certification process can boast.

By obtaining the ISO 27001 certificate, organizations demonstrate that they are actively engaged in managing and protecting information and ensuring its compliance with legal requirements.

The ISO 27001 certificate is the culmination of a series of actions. To even consider certification, it is necessary to implement an Information Security Management System (ISMS) compliant with ISO 27001 requirements and undergo the certification process (audit). Before undergoing certification, it is advisable to conduct an independent audit to verify whether the implemented system complies with ISO 27001.

PBSG helps companies and organizations obtain the certificate. We conduct an audit to assess the effectiveness of the ISMS implementation and prepare a report with recommendations and corrective actions, which are crucial for information security. We also provide post-audit support, which includes assistance in implementing the required changes and support during the certification process.

More information can be found here: ISO 27001 Certification with PBSG.

Implementing ISO consists of several stages, including training for both management and employees. In addition to increasing awareness regarding the safe management of information, it is crucial to improve internal communication within the company, which ultimately enhances decision-making processes. As for PBSG, each company or organization choosing to implement ISO with the potential for later certification is assigned a consultant who guides them through each stage of implementing the ISMS (Information Security Management System).

Step 1: Preliminary audit to identify legal and business requirements and conduct asset analysis.

Step 2: Development and implementation of the information security management system (ISMS) documentation.

Step 3: Training for designated employees, including the information security officer, internal auditors, and management staff.

Step 4: ISMS audit to identify corrective and preventive actions in accordance with ISO 27001 requirements.

Step 5: Post-audit support and assistance during the ISMS certification audit.

One of the key advantages of implementing an information security management system based on ISO 27001 is its seamless integration with a quality management system under ISO 9001. Since the requirements of both standards are aligned, this integration can significantly reduce ISMS implementation costs.

The cost of implementing the ISO 27001 standard depends on various factors, such as the size and structure of the organization, the industry, the market environment, and the complexity of its processes. Each audit project preparing for certification consists of several stages and is priced individually. This also applies to preparations for ISO 27001 certification.

It is important to note that the cost of certification includes the work of auditors, whose task is to visit the company/organization (or multiple locations), review system documentation, conduct interviews, observe daily operations, and identify areas for improvement. For this reason, the cost may vary.

Why choose our support? We are an experienced auditing body that helps companies and organizations from various industries obtain ISO certifications. In 2007, we prepared PKO BP SA for ISO 27001 information security system certification—the first such certification in the Polish banking sector. We ensure that our auditors have many years of experience, extensive knowledge of standards, and an in-depth understanding of industry specifics.

For a pricing inquiry, please contact us.