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A ISO 27001 certificate you obtain by going through a structured process of implementing an information security management system (ISMS) and having it assessed by an accredited audit body. The process includes preparation, implementation, internal audits and an official certification audit. The turnaround time ranges from 6 to 18 months, depending on the organisation size and complexity.
What is an ISO 27001 certificate and why do you need it?
ISO 27001 is an international standard for information security management that helps organisations systematically protect confidential information. The certificate shows that your organisation structurally manages risks, adequately protects data and meets legal requirements for information security.
Customers and partners are increasingly demanding ISO 27001 certification, especially in tenders and cooperation agreements. For ICT companies, healthcare institutions and organisations processing sensitive data, it is often a requirement for doing business. The certificate strengthens your digital resilience and creates confidence in the market.
The standard aligns seamlessly with AVG/GDPR obligations and the new NIS2 directive. With a certified management system, you proactively demonstrate that information security is a priority within your organisation, giving you a competitive advantage.
What steps do you need to go through to become ISO 27001-certified?
The certification process starts with a gap analysis to determine where your organisation stands in relation to ISO 27001 requirements. You then implement an information security management system (ISMS) with associated procedures, risk assessments and security measures.
The key steps are:
- Defining the scope and context of your ISMS
- Conducting a comprehensive risk analysis
- Drafting information security policies and procedures
- Implementing technical and organisational measures
- Training employees in information security awareness
- Conduct internal audits and management review
- Having a certification audit carried out by an accredited body
After a positive assessment, you will receive the ISO 27001 certificate with a validity of three years, followed by annual surveillance audits.
How much time and money does it take to obtain ISO 27001 certification?
For small organisations (up to 50 employees), the certification process usually takes 6 to 12 months. Medium-sized companies need 9 to 15 months, while large organisations should count 12 to 18 months. The lead time depends on the current state of information security and available resources.
Cost factors include:
- Consultancy for implementation (€ 15,000 - € 50,000)
- Certification audit by an accredited body (€8,000 - €25,000)
- Internal resources and training (staff time)
- Technical security measures if required
To make the process cost-effective go through, ensure strong management involvement, schedule sufficient time for preparation and choose an experienced audit partner that communicates transparently about expectations and costs.
What are the most common pitfalls in ISO 27001 certification?
The biggest pitfall is insufficient management commitment, leading to project stagnation and insufficient employee involvement. Other common mistakes include underestimating the scope, inadequate risk analysis and lack of awareness among employees about their role in information security.
Typical problems faced by organisations:
- Late start with documentation and process descriptions
- Unrealistic planning with no buffer for contingencies
- Focusing on certification rather than actual security enhancement
- Insufficient focus on change management and employee engagement
- Choosing the cheapest rather than the most suitable audit partner
Avoid these pitfalls by starting preparation early, setting realistic goals and integrating information security into the corporate culture rather than treating it as a separate project.
How to choose the right audit institution for your ISO 27001 certification?
Choose a accredited audit institution (RvA accreditation) with demonstrable experience in your sector. Important are transparent communication about the audit process, realistic planning and an appreciative audit process where strengths are recognised alongside areas for improvement.
Evaluation criteria for audit partners:
- Official accreditation and experience with similar organisations
- Auditors with technical IT/OT knowledge and sector-specific expertise
- Clear communication on process, timeframe and expectations
- An appreciative audit process that goes beyond checklist thinking
- Positive references from other customers
As an accredited audit institution, we offer a context-oriented approach, tailoring our services to each organisation. Our ISO 27001 certification service combines technical expertise with an appreciative audit process that adds real value to your organisation. For more information on how we can help you with your certification process, please visit contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my organisation fails the ISO 27001 certification audit?
In case of a negative assessment, you will receive a list of non-conformities to be resolved within 90 days. After implementing corrective actions, a re-audit follows to check that all issues have been adequately addressed.
How do you maintain an ISO 27001 certificate after obtaining it?
The certificate requires annual surveillance audits and a full renewal audit after three years. In addition, you must continuously work on risk monitoring, incident management and keeping procedures and security measures up-to-date.
Why does the ISO 27001 certification process take so long in large organisations?
Large organisations have more complex IT infrastructures, more locations and departments, and more extensive risk assessments. Coordinating changes between different teams and training more employees takes significantly more time than in smaller companies.
How do you combine ISO 27001 implementation with other management systems such as ISO 9001?
By developing an integrated management system that combines common elements such as document management, internal audits and management review. This avoids duplication and ensures more efficient processes within your organisation.
