What is an ISO 27001 gap analysis?

When you want your organization to get an ISO 27001 certification, you’ll need to do an ISO 27001 gap analysis at some point in the process. But what is that exactly and what does the process look like?

What is an ISO 27001 gap analysis?

A gap analysis is like a reality check. It helps organizations figure out where they currently stand compared to where they need to be to meet ISO 27001 requirements. In short, you need to figure out which information security arrangements are already in place and which may need some work. An ISO 27001 consultant can help you perform such an analysis.

→ A dummy’s guide: what is ISO 27001?

Why is an ISO 27001 gap analysis important?

1. Identify gaps: Find out what you’re missing in your current security practices. It’s easy to develop a blind spot for gaps in your security systems, especially when you’ve been in the organization for a while.
2. Prioritize actions: Determine which areas need immediate attention.
3. Plan for compliance: Develop a roadmap to meet ISO 27001 standards. Because that’s what it’s all about in the end.

The gap analysis process

Let’s break down the gap analysis process into simple, manageable steps. Note: the below process is somewhat simplified and can be performed better by an ISO 27001 consultant.

1. Understand ISO 27001 requirements

First, get familiar with the ISO 27001 standard. It includes a set of controls and guidelines for managing information security. Not to turn you off already, but it is vast and therefor will be time-consuming. The ISO 27001 standard is very complete and touches base on any subject that may put your organization at risk if not attended to.

2. Assess your current state

Next, take a close look at your organization’s current security measures. This involves:

• Reviewing policies: Check if you have documented policies for security. If you do, what do they look like and how do they stack up against the ISO 27001 requirements?
• Evaluating processes: Look at how your organization currently handles data, from storage to disposal. Also think about how data is being transferred between colleagues and the organization and customers.
• Inspecting controls: Examine technical controls like firewalls and encryption. Which tools are you using and how are they performing?

3. Identify gaps

Compare your current state to the ISO 27001 requirements. This will help you identify gaps – areas where your practices don’t meet the standard. For example:

• Missing policies: You might not have a formal information security policy. Or if you do have one, it may not be up to par.
• Inadequate controls: Your data might not be encrypted.

4. Prioritize gaps

Not all gaps are created equal. Prioritize them based on their impact on security and compliance. Focus on high-risk areas first, like those that could lead to data breaches. No need to get too much into the nitty and gritty here. If a gap seems some-what high-risk, it should be dealt with short-term. That’s as detailed as you need to be here.

5. Develop an action plan

Create a plan to address the gaps in your information security fortress. This should include:

• Specific actions: What needs to be done (e.g., implement encryption).
• Responsible parties: Who will do it (e.g., IT department).
• Timelines: When it will be done by (e.g., within 3 months).

6. Implement changes

Put your action plan into motion. This could involve:

• Policy development: Writing and approving new security policies.
• Training: Educating employees about new security practices.
• Technical upgrades: Installing and configuring new security tools.

7. Monitor progress

Keep track of your progress towards closing the gaps. Regularly review and update your action plan as needed. This ensures you stay on track to meet ISO 27001 standards.

What are the benefits of an ISO 27001 gap analysis?

ISO 27001 auditors are strict, and rightfully so. That’s why you need to make sure you spot any gaps before they can. A gap analysis gives you and your team the overview needed to improve your information security before the auditors set foot in your office.

Conclusion

A gap analysis helps organizations understand what they need to improve in their information security and which gaps should be filled first.

Doing an ISO 27001 gap analysis all by yourself is no easy feat, no matter how many blogs on the matter you read. That’s why many organizations hire an ISO 27001 consultant to help them on the job.