According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime is predicted to inflict damages totaling $6 trillion globally in 2021, which highlights the critical need for robust information security measures. Additionally, a survey conducted by PwC revealed that 87% of global CEOs are concerned about cyber threats.
Obtaining an ISO 27001 certification may boost your company’s reputation, attract new clients, enhance security, and shield you from fines from authorities. However, the number of requirements might appear never-ending with 10 management system clauses and 114 information security, 11 requirements, 5 Trust Service Criteria, and several rules included in an annexure for a typical ISO 27001 audit.
It can seem complicated, which is why the best ISO 27001 Compliance Consultant comes into play. So, without wasting time, let’s understand the process of hiring ISO 27001 Consultants.
The worldwide standard for information security management is ISO 27001. The creation, administration, and upkeep of an information security management system (ISMS) and the supporting policies and procedures are given special attention in this standard.
Similar to other security standards, organizations that wish to comply with ISO 27001 must incorporate certain internal security controls—that is, systems and processes—into their ISMS. ISO 27001, in contrast to most other security standards, only addresses security management. Therefore, one of the best methods to be sure that your security management is doing all possible to keep your company secure is to achieve ISO 27001 compliance.
ISO 27001 Standards
Key ISO 27001 Requirements-
ISO 27001 requirements help organizations systematically manage and protect their information assets, ensuring a robust information security management system (ISMS). By adhering to these requirements, businesses can enhance their information security posture, reduce risks, and build trust with clients and stakeholders. It also gives the assurance of ISO 27001 Certification, which proves better compliance.
The requirements of ISO 27001 include-
ISO 27001 consultants are experts who assist organizations in implementing and maintaining the ISO 27001 standard. Their primary goal is to help businesses achieve certification by developing, managing, and improving their information security management systems (ISMS).
An ISO 27001 consultant typically performs the following roles and responsibilities:
Design, Build & Deploy Your ISMS
Developing ISMS Policy, Procedure & Documentation
Conducting Assessment & Gap Analysis
Conducting Risk Management & Treatment
Development of Policy
Creating Training & Awareness Programs
Conducting Internal and External Audit, Audit Readiness
Conducting Continuous Improvements
Hiring an ISO 27001 consultant ensures a seamless and efficient integration of the Information Security Management System (ISMS) into your organization’s existing processes and systems. Their expertise allows them to design and implement an ISMS that aligns perfectly with your business needs, minimizing disruptions and ensuring that all security measures are effectively incorporated. This leads to a smoother transition and quicker realization of the benefits of a robust ISMS.
ISO 27001 consultants bring a deep understanding of the standard’s requirements and regulatory environment, which helps in navigating the compliance process with ease. They ensure that your organization’s policies, procedures, and controls meet ISO 27001 standards, reducing the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties. Their guidance in documentation and reporting further simplifies the compliance journey, making it less cumbersome and more straightforward.
Consultants provide well-structured and strategic planning for the ISMS implementation, saving your organization significant time and effort. Their experience and methodical approach reduces the chances of errors and rework, allowing your team to focus on core business activities. This efficient use of resources not only accelerates the implementation process but also optimizes the allocation of internal staff and budget.
With the help of an ISO 27001 consultant, your organization is better prepared for both internal and external audits. They conduct thorough internal reviews to identify and rectify potential issues, increasing the likelihood of a successful audit outcome. Additionally, consultants generate detailed and comprehensive reports that highlight your organization’s compliance status, strengths, and areas for improvement. These reports are invaluable for continuous improvement and maintaining certification.
Consultants provide ongoing oversight and monitoring of your ISMS to ensure it remains effective and compliant with ISO 27001 standards. They conduct regular reviews and assessments, identifying and addressing any security issues proactively. This continuous oversight helps maintain a high level of security and ensures that your ISMS adapts to evolving business needs and emerging threats.
Bringing in an ISO 27001 consultant provides an objective, external perspective on your organization’s information security practices. This unbiased analysis helps identify blind spots and areas that internal teams may overlook. Consultants also bring the latest industry best practices and innovations, ensuring that your ISMS is not only compliant but also optimized for maximum effectiveness.
ISO 27001 consultants help establish sustainable security practices that endure beyond the initial implementation phase. Their guidance ensures that your organization maintains a robust security posture over the long term, with continuous improvement built into the ISMS. This prolonged security helps safeguard your organization’s sensitive information against evolving threats.
Achieving ISO 27001 certification with the help of a consultant enhances your organization’s credibility and trustworthiness. This certification demonstrates your commitment to information security and regulatory compliance, which can lead to increased customer confidence and improved business opportunities. Moreover, it provides a competitive advantage, setting your organization apart in a market where data security is increasingly critical.
The answer varies based on the experience and skill of the individual consultant as well as the particular services you would like to employ them for, just as with any other form of specialized consulting. However, the typical cost of an ISO consultant is around $38,000.
Pivot Point Security notes that ISO 27001 consultant charges range from $1,400 to $1,800 per day and divides this into two pre-certification phases:
Phase I: $20,000 — scoping out the audit, assessing risks, mitigating risks, and analyzing gaps;
Phase II: $18,000 — Gap remediation, registrar selection, ISMS development, incident response, internal audit, and audit support.
When considering hiring an ISO 27001 consultant, it’s essential to make an informed decision to ensure you get the best possible support for your organization’s information security needs.
Clearly outline what you aim to achieve with ISO 27001 certification. Whether it’s improving security, gaining a competitive edge, or complying with regulations, having clear goals will help you find a consultant who aligns with your objectives.
Look for consultants with extensive experience in ISO 27001 implementation. Check their track record, client testimonials, and case studies to understand their expertise and the results they have achieved for other organizations.
Look for certifications such as ISO 27001 Lead Auditor or Lead Implementer, which demonstrate their knowledge and capability in managing information security.
Discuss the consultant’s methodology and approach to ISO 27001 implementation. Ensure they offer a tailored approach that suits your organization’s specific needs rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
Effective communication is crucial for a successful ISO 27001 implementation. Ensure the consultant can communicate complex security concepts clearly and understandably, and is responsive to your queries and concerns.
The consultant will work closely with your team, so they must fit well with your organizational culture. Look for someone who understands your business environment and can work harmoniously with your staff.
Determine the level of support the consultant will provide throughout the certification process and beyond. Continuous support and guidance are essential for maintaining compliance and improving your ISMS over time.
Have a transparent discussion about the costs involved. Understand the consultant’s fee structure, including any additional charges for ongoing support or unforeseen tasks. Ensure that their services provide good value for your investment.
Ask for references from past clients and follow up with them to get an honest assessment of the consultant’s performance. This can provide valuable insights into the consultant’s reliability and effectiveness.
Continuous improvement is required to maintain ISO 27001 certification. Choose a consultant who can provide long-term support and help your organization adapt to changing security requirements and threats.
Hiring an ISO 27001 consultant, if you have the funds available, may help you strengthen your defense and improve your chances of receiving an excellent certification. Nevertheless, automation software is an option if your company is tiny and you lack the funds to engage a consultant.
With automation software, you may combine DIY and consulting-style methods to get the best of both worlds. With practical capabilities that save time and money, this may automate the process of establishing the scope of the ISMS, the documentation process, the gathering of evidence, and more.
One reliable option for automation software is Socurely. Everything you need for your ISO 27001 is 100% available on the platform in a language that is simple to use and comprehend. Your organization’s non-technical stakeholders will also find it simple to complete their jobs.
Everything is automated, including staff training as well as tasks like placement inspections and creating the SOA report. Our very kind and accommodating team is always there to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer assistance.
All of this is now faster to deploy and costs less, as the Socurely ISO 27001 compliance framework removes the need for needless human interaction and permits smooth automation. hence having a direct effect on the cost of compliance.
If you’re looking for trusted and experienced ISO 27001 compliance experts, consider connecting with Socurely. Our team of certified consultants offers tailored solutions to help your organization achieve and maintain ISO 27001 certification.
