Security first! Over the years, as we have worked with clients across various industries, we have consistently prioritized security. We meticulously evaluate all aspects of our operations to ensure the highest standards. What better way to validate our commitment than by obtaining certification from an independent third party?
ISO certification is a mark of quality and security, ensuring that our processes meet internationally recognized standards. After all, if you don’t do regular audits, how will you know that everything is okay?
We received ISO 9001 certification and ISO 27001 certification last year, in October 2023, but we wanted to present in this blog the significance of an ISO standard and showcase the process we went through at Devōt.
What do ISO 9001 certification and ISO 27001 certification mean?
ISO certification signifies that a company adheres to internationally recognized standards published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). These standards ensure that businesses operate with consistent quality and efficiency. It was founded in 1947, and the main goal is to promote worldwide proprietary, industrial, and commercial standards.
Since 1947, ISO has published over 25,000 international standards covering almost all aspects of technology and manufacturing. But what is the point of these standards? These standards help organizations improve their performance and ensure the quality and safety of their products and services.
Considering the many standards, we will cover what ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 mean because those are the standards we achieved at Devōt.
ISO 9001 is a standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). Organizations use this standard to demonstrate their ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. ISO 9001:2015, the latest version, focuses on various quality management principles, including a strong customer focus, the involvement of top management, and a process approach to continual improvement.
ISO 27001 is a standard for information security management systems (ISMS). It provides a framework for managing sensitive company and customer information to ensure it remains secure. The standard includes requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an ISMS. It helps organizations manage the security of assets such as financial information, intellectual property, employee details, and information entrusted by third parties.
What are the benefits of ISO certification for businesses?
1. We enhanced our quality
ISO certification ensures businesses implement effective quality management systems. This leads to high-quality products and services that align with quality management principles and meet customer requirements.
An effective quality management system reduces errors, increases efficiency, and enhances overall performance.
2. It helped our business protect sensitive information
Achieving ISO 27001:2022 certification helps businesses protect sensitive information. This involves rigorous risk management practices, conformity assessment, and adherence to international standards.
By securing client data and intellectual property, our company can prevent data breaches and maintain trust.
3. More confidence in the partnership
ISO certification, particularly ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001:2022, facilitates smoother business-to-business interactions. Companies prefer partnering with ISO-certified organizations because it guarantees adherence to international best practices and standards. This independent verification builds confidence in the partnership.
4. Elevate your reputation on a global level
ISO certifications are globally recognized standards that enhance a company's reputation and credibility. Being ISO-certified demonstrates a commitment to quality and security, making it easier to enter new markets and engage with international clients.
It shows that your organization meets globally recognized standards and can compete internationally.
5. You will improve operational efficiency
Implementing ISO standards improves operational efficiency by streamlining processes and promoting continual improvement.
Regular internal audits and performance evaluations help identify areas for improvement, reduce waste, and optimize resource utilization. This results in better process performance and overall operational efficiency.
Why ISO 27001 certification is so crucial for client security?
1. Minimizing risks, maximizing business integrity
ISO 27001 is essential in identifying and managing security risks. By implementing a comprehensive information security management system, organizations can systematically assess potential threats and vulnerabilities.
This proactive approach to risk management ensures that preventive actions are taken before issues arise, safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of business operations.
2. Data safety first, always
You know how they say, safe data = secure business. Achieving ISO certification helps organizations comply with statutory and regulatory requirements.
ISO 27001 ensures that businesses adhere to relevant laws and regulations concerning data protection and privacy. Compliance not only avoids legal penalties but also enhances the organization's reputation for reliability and trustworthiness.
3. Confidentiality first - Protecting sensitive information
ISO 27001 specifies requirements for establishing measures to protect sensitive information. This includes implementing effective processes for data encryption, access control, and document control.
These measures ensure that client data and intellectual property are secure from unauthorized access and breaches, meeting both customer/client and regulatory requirements.
Devōt’s journey to ISO certification
Why did we do it and initiate it?
For several years, we have successfully operated in the market, both locally and internationally. We prioritize quality, efficiency, and continual improvement. Aligning our internal processes with ISO standards was a natural progression to ensure our business is officially recognized on an international level.
Achieving ISO certification provided an excellent opportunity to refine our processes, define any missing elements, and enhance employee satisfaction. Although we already prioritized security, ISO certification helped solidify our commitment and streamline our processes to meet international standards.
How does the ISO certification process look
To prepare for certification, we collaborated with the consulting firm AUDAX INFO j.d.o.o., and SGS Adriatica d.o.o. conducted the certification. ISO develops and publishes standards but does not conduct certification processes.
We chose ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001:2022 because they are foundational certifications. Combining these two standards allows for a comprehensive management approach that covers key business aspects.
The preparation took six months, involving around ten people. AUDAX INFO guided us from start to finish. Initially, we familiarized the management team with the standards and studied their requirements. We formed an implementation team, including department heads, who received training on the standards' requirements and their roles in the quality management system.
We conducted a gap analysis to determine our current status relative to ISO standards, then began documenting processes and procedures to meet ISO 9001 requirements. This phase included creating quality policies, objectives, manuals, work instructions, and other documents. Ensuring all employees understood their responsibilities and adhered to procedures was crucial.
An internal audit by AUDAX INFO reviewed all documentation and the practical implementation of our quality management system. This internal audit served as a rehearsal for the external audit. It involved a thorough review of operations and interviews with internal employees. After implementing corrective measures identified during the internal audit, we were ready for the external audit conducted by SGS Adriatica.
The journey isn't done
Obtaining the ISO certification is just the beginning of the certification process. Once you have the certificate, the work doesn’t stop there.
Every year, we must conduct internal audits to ensure that all business processes continue to comply with the prescribed and agreed-upon quality management standards and security standards.
Additionally, every three years, we must undergo an external audit to maintain our certification and continue to uphold the highest standards of quality and security.
Repeating all these processes might seem challenging for a busy company, but this commitment to continuous improvement ensures that you continually improve and refine your processes. Ultimately, it provides a secure assurance for the clients that want to work with you.
