By William Grenfell, Head of IT
In today’s digital age, information security is paramount. At Agilex Biolabs, we understand the importance of safeguarding our data and maintaining the trust of our clients. This is why we have pursued and achieved ISO 27001:2022 certification, an internationally recognized standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS).
Firstly, what exactly are the benefits to Agilex and our clients, why go through the effort attaining certification?
1. Enhanced Risk Management
ISO 27001 provides a robust framework for managing and protecting sensitive company and client information. By identifying and addressing potential security risks, we can prevent data breaches and minimize the impact of any security incidents. This proactive approach to risk management ensures that our information assets are secure and that we are as prepared as possible.
2. Improved Audit Response Times
One of the significant advantages of ISO 27001 certification is the streamlined audit process. With a standardized approach to information security, we can quickly and efficiently respond to audit queries. This not only saves time but also reduces the effort required to demonstrate compliance with industry standards.
Agilex has seen a 77% drop in Information Security related findings since attaining certification.
3. Increased Client Trust
Achieving ISO 27001 certification demonstrates our commitment to information security at every level of our organization. This reassures our clients that their data is in safe hands and that we adhere to the highest standards of information security. As a result, we can build stronger relationships with our clients and attract new business opportunities.
We have had multiple clients express their gratitude in Agilex attaining certification, because it makes the audit process simpler and faster to complete.
4. Compliance with Regulatory Requirements
ISO 27001 helps us stay compliant with various regulatory requirements (GDPR, HIPAA and CCPA) and industry standards. By implementing the necessary controls and processes, we can ensure that we meet the legal and contractual obligations related to information security. This reduces the risk of non-compliance and potential legal action.
5. Operational Improvements
The implementation of an ISMS under ISO 27001 leads to several operational improvements. It provides a structured framework for managing information security, ensuring that everyone in the organization is aware of their roles and responsibilities. Regular reviews and continual improvement processes help us stay ahead of emerging threats and maintain a high level of security.
Agilex have seen a 30% drop in cyber penetration findings on the internal network and a 48% drop in website findings since gaining ISO 27001.
6. Competitive Advantage
ISO 27001 certification gives us an edge over competitors who are not certified. It enhances our marketplace credibility and allows us to bid for more contracts that require stringent information security measures. Additionally, it can lead to cost savings, such as cheaper cyber-insurance premiums and shorter audit schedules.
7. Protecting Our Reputation
Maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our information is crucial for protecting our reputation. ISO 27001 helps us safeguard confidential information, protect against legal action, and preserve our reputation in the industry. This, in turn, supports our long-term business growth and success.
Agilex carried out a 10-month long project to be ready for the ISO 27001 audit. The project included writing the framework, a gap assessment of current policies and closing those gaps. BSI Global conducted a seven-day audit of the business, policies and procedures. The auditors interviewed staff from all departments and reviewed over 825 pages of evidence. The results showed zero findings and Agilex attained certification.
In conclusion, ISO 27001 certification is not just a badge of honor; it is a testament to our dedication to information security. By implementing and maintaining an ISMS, we can protect our data, enhance our operational efficiency, and build trust with our clients. At Agilex Biolabs, we are committed to excellence in information security, and ISO 27001 is a key part of our strategy to achieve this goal.
