| By :
Stewart Wrighter
There are many benefits to be achieved if your company makes an investment in implementing ISO 27001 to achieve security of information. An Information Security Management System (ISMS) which incorporates this standard will ensure the safety of that vital component of any business --its information. Trying to persuade your management to make this implementation may be a little difficult because they may be reluctant to incur additional expenses which might not seem to be justified in their eyes. As an information and IT specialist it is your job to put forward a convincing argument which outlines the benefits of putting this security standard into practice. This will give management a clear picture of how it can be an advantage to the company and then they are able to make a decision based on costs versus benefits. The first benefit to make them aware of is that it will make the company compliant with all the various regulations which cover data protection and privacy policies. It will enable the company to do this easily and efficiently. Secondly, in an extremely competitive marketplace the fact that your data is highly secured with the current standard of protection can offer the company a point of difference and customers will appreciate that the vulnerability of their personal information is totally taken care of. Additionally, having a high level security system in place will lead to less data leakage, less instances of displeased clients and less interruptions in service provision. This in turn makes for reduced costs and lowers the company's overall expenses. This factor is very likely to make a good impression when pointed out to the management. By implementing ISO 27001, your company will need to make clear definitions of the roles and responsibilities within the organization. This will sort out any problems of just who may be responsible for various parts of the information system and who has access to certain functions. This area is often a cause for uncertainty and inefficiency in a company and by implementing the standard the company will be strengthened in its internal operation and organization. To fully implement the standard your company will be involved in an audit process which usually consists of three stages. The initial stage is an informal evaluation of the current information management system with a review of the current documentation to give auditors an overall picture of the company's present security system. The next stage is a more formal and specific process where the system is thoroughly checked to see that it is well-designed and implemented. If this stage is passed the final stage consists of follow up audits to ensure that the company remains compliant and continues operation as documented. This is not a quick and easy process and implementation may take many months. However, the benefits are certainly worthwhile. The information management system may be implemented in a section of the business rather than encompass the entire company. However, it is used in your company it does involve everyone from management through to the 'ordinary' employees.
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