1. Freeing up resources
An ISO 27001 implementation requires time, manpower and the right systems. It may seem challenging to free up those resources in addition to day-to-day operations. But you won't get sustainable compliance without this investment. Start small, make a schedule and divide tasks among different teams. That way you can quickly take concrete steps without completely flattening your organization.
2. Wanting to finish too quickly
Many organizations want to get ISO certification "quickly." The result? Processes and systems are insufficiently thought out, causing problems later. Implementing ISO 27001 therefore becomes a checklist, whereby the system itself receives too little attention and organizations suddenly have to pull out all the stops to pass the audit. And that may well cause problems. So take the time to be thorough, even if you feel pressure to see results quickly. Better to take a little longer and do it right, than to be back to square one later.
3. Becoming dependent on outside help
An external expert is obviously a good option, and it is tempting to let an external expert take care of everything. In fact, ISO 27001 also requires commitment from within your own organization. External consultants will help you, but internal commitment remains necessary. Make sure your team actively participates and takes responsibility. That way the knowledge remains in-house, even after the consultant has left.
4. Lack of management commitment.
Without management support, it will be difficult to implement ISO 27001 properly. Top management must understand why this standard is important and actively show their support. Not only in words, but also in freeing up resources and directing employees to perform the right actions. Ensure that management sees and continues to emphasize the importance, for example by:
- make management owners of certain risks;
- organize a management review;
- provide awarenes training for executives.
5. Create awareness throughout the organization
ISO 27001 is not just about the IT department. Everyone in your organization needs to understand why information security is important and what their role in it is. This requires a well-thought-out awareness campaign. Think training sessions, emails and regular reminders to keep everyone on their toes.
6. Too much focus on technology
Especially in IT-driven organizations, you see that the focus is often on technology. Yet ISO 27001 is not just about technical solutions. Policies, procedures and processes are just as important. So don't forget to pay attention to those "softer" aspects and make sure everything is in balance. Besides 34 technological controls, there are also 37 organizational controls, 8 people-oriented controls and 14 physical controls - and they are just as important.
7. Lack of (proper) documentation
Many organizations struggle with documentation. Either there is too little documentation, or it is unclear exactly what needs to be documented. Good documentation is the backbone of your ISO 27001 system. Take the time to set this up properly and show how it adds value. People need to see that good documentation is not just an obligation, but actually helps streamline processes and demonstrate compliance.
8. Translating policy into practice
Drafting policies is one thing, actually implementing them is another. How do you ensure that the policy not only remains on paper, but is also complied with? By linking policy directly to annual planning with controls and evidence, preferably in your task and project management system. This makes it concrete and feasible for your team to comply.
9. Legal and privacy overlooked
Information security also touches on legal and privacy issues. This is often forgotten, even though it is essential. Make sure you have or hire the right legal knowledge and that you also include privacy legislation, such as the AVG, in your ISO 27001 system. For example, think about establishing processor agreements and securing personal data.
10. ISO as 'one person's party'
You often see the Security Officer or Quality Manager given all the responsibility for implementing ISO 27001. The danger is that the rest of the organization is not involved. ISO 27001 is an organization-wide project, not a solo project. Everyone needs to be included in the changes and understand what their role is.
In conclusion
A successful ISO 27001 implementation requires commitment at every level, from management to executive staff. By taking time, engaging the right people and focusing on both processes and technology, you'll put your organization on the map as a trusted partner in information security.
Have you already taken steps or are you running into any of these challenges? Share your experience or ask for advice, we'd love to think with you!
