The process of an internal audit for ISO 27001 certification

ISO 27001 is an internationally recognised standard that defines the requirements for an information security management system (ISMS). To achieve certification, companies must go through a rigorous assessment process, which includes an internal audit. This is an important process to ensure that a company's ISMS complies with all regulations, procedures and standards. By reviewing the documentation of policies and procedures, any errors or deficiencies in the company's system can be uncovered. Find out what to expect from an internal audit for ISO 27001 certification here.

The process of an internal ISO 27001 audit

It is important to note that an internal audit, unlike an external audit, is carried out by an in-house staff member.

1. 1. Before implementing an audit plan, it is important to sit down with management and agree on a schedule and budget. This will ensure that the audit runs smoothly and that there are no surprises. The last thing you want when planning the implementation is to have to cut corners or save resources because management has not approved the schedule or budget.
    
2. Once a timetable and budget have been agreed, an audit plan can be drawn up. This plan will define the scope of the audit, the people to be audited and the timing of the audit. Now the implementation of the audit plan can begin. Throughout the process, management should remain involved so that everyone is on the same page.
    
3. The auditor's task is to make an unbiased and objective assessment of an organisation's compliance with all regulations, procedures and standards. This should be done by reviewing the organisation's internal documentation that was created when the ISMS was implemented. This includes the policies and procedures that were put in place, as well as records of training and awareness-raising activities. This can be supported by interviews and observations. This can provide an overview of the system and identify areas where action is needed. 
    
4. Once the information is collected, it is time for analysis. This is where the data is examined more closely to determine what the company's overall risk management strategy is and what actions need to be taken to uncover inconsistencies or highlight the need for further audits. The auditor prepares audit reports on an ongoing basis to document the results of each audit. These reports help the organisation to improve its compliance programme. By analysing the data, a more effective risk management strategy can be developed to help minimise losses and protect the organisation's assets. By taking action based on the results of the data analysis, it is also possible to ensure that the organisation is prepared for any potential risks that may arise in the future.
    
5. After the analysis of the data, a final report is prepared in which the results are shared with the management. This formal report informs management of the detailed findings of the audit. The report includes information on the scope, objectives, a summary of the main findings, the audience for the report and, if applicable, an in-depth analysis of the findings, conclusions and recommended corrective actions, suggestions or qualifications, etc. Management is usually also informed of other aspects of the audit that may be relevant to them, e.g. areas for improvement or things that went well. After receiving the audit report, management usually discusses it with the auditors to clarify any unclear points.

Conclusion

‍An internal audit is an important part of the process to obtain ISO 27001 certification. By asking strategic questions, auditors can already get a clear picture of the company's compliance internally.

With the right preparation, companies can also pass the external ISO 27001 audit and obtain certification.

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