Implementing an ISMS—short for Information Security Management System—is a major challenge for a company. The data it holds and processes represents a valuable asset that must be secured, which is why it is essential to maintain control over it.
In a context where information is volatile, especially since the digitization of data, implementing an ISMS requires adherence to certifiable standards. This allows the company to rely on a proven process to ensure the reliability of its system, based on specific security measures, and to sustain this over the long term. In this article, we explore what an ISMS is to help you understand its foundations and what it entails for your business.
ISMS: Definition
The ISMS encompasses the processes and tools implemented within the company to manage the security of its data. The objective of the Information Security Management System is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data.
Did you know? The concept of ISMS originated before digitalization.
A company that stores its data on paper, for instance, also benefits from implementing an ISMS.
In this example, the ISMS could look like this: to protect against and maintain control over the risks of theft and destruction, the company stores its paper documents in a fireproof safe, locked with a key and secured by a code that is changed weekly.
Today, information is predominantly digitized. The security system must account for emerging cyber threats and anticipate future risks.
Why Implement an ISMS?
#1 Securing Your Data
Numerous cyber threats have already been identified, such as ransomware, phishing, and denial-of-service attacks.
In addition to malicious hackers, the company’s own employees can be the source of data destruction or leaks. A simple handling error is enough, but the measures you implement will help protect your business.
With the development of new technologies, risks are becoming more diverse, and previously unidentified practices are putting the company’s data at risk.
In the event of an attack, the consequences can be disastrous. The financial impact is significant, and, more practically, the company is paralyzed until it can recover its intact data.
This is why implementing an ISMS is essential: it helps the company protect itself against attacks and respond quickly and cost-effectively when they cannot be prevented.
#2 Building Trust
A company that has implemented an ISMS strengthens its brand image.
Its clients and partners are assured that their personal data remains confidential and their contracts are secure. As a result, they are more likely to engage with the company, confident in its reliability.
Food for Thought:
The level of digitalization within a company has long been a major factor of attractiveness. Gradually, however, partners and clients are starting to focus on how the company secures its data. In the very near future, it’s a safe bet that having an ISMS will become the top priority for attractiveness.
#3 To Simplify Tasks for Employees
Internally, implementing the ISMS simplifies the work of teams.
In practice: Data is available and intact. Each employee knows where to find up-to-date information and can only access it if authorized.
In the event of an attack: The management system is designed to enforce a strict cybersecurity policy. Relevant employees rely on clearly defined processes and tools to respond effectively, ensuring smooth organizational operation.
How to Implement an ISMS?
To implement an ISMS, the company develops an information security policy tailored both to the data it holds and processes, and to the practices in place within the organization.
Particularly sensitive, and therefore highly sought-after, data requires enhanced security processes.
The company’s operations also dictate the development of the ISMS: for instance, the larger the number of employees, the more complex the processes to be implemented.
In any case, implementing an ISMS involves the following steps:
Implementing an ISMS is a large-scale project. To ensure the security of its information system, the company can rely on the provider of the solution it uses.
Did you know?
To ensure the effectiveness of the ISMS, the company relies on a standard. The most widely used is the ISO/IEC 27001 standard. It is known for adopting the Deming Wheel approach, or PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act).
The company establishes its ISMS, implements it, maintains it, and then improves it, following the steps outlined above.
DiliTrust is equipped with an ISMS.
DiliTrust’s CLM solution allows you to manage and track your contracts throughout their lifecycle. Beyond its enhanced management features—intelligent contract generation, digital signature workflows, document recognition, automated deadline reminders—our CLM solution is highly efficient at securing your documents and data.
By using the DiliTrust Governance suite, you rely on a provider certified with ISO 27001, ISO 27701, and SOC 2 standards to delegate the implementation of your ISMS. Your most valuable intangible assets are secured in compliance with the highest market standards.
Would you like to learn more about our commitment to security?
