Resources, Competence, Awareness, Communication: Navigating ISO 27001 Clauses 7.1 – 7.4

Clause 7.1 - Resources

There are no secrets here; this clause is concise and to the point. The organisation must identify and provide all resources required to establish and maintain the ISMS effectively. Here are five key steps for managing your resources:

1. Estimate what is required.
2. Acquire what is needed.
3. Provide what is needed.
4. Maintain what is required.
5. Review progress.

While the term "resources" covers a broad spectrum, addressing categories such as competent staff and time is crucial. Time is, indeed, a resource that needs meticulous consideration. Meeting this clause involves integrating resource management into your daily business routine. Utilizing tools like an asset register for equipment, software, and HR systems for managing people and time can centralize and streamline this process. Jira and similar tools can be invaluable for tracking tasks, work pipelines, and resource demands during planning.

Clause 7.2 - Competence

Determining the competencies required for ISMS-related work and ensuring that staff possess them form the core of this clause. A skills matrix in your HR system can be a valuable tool for tracking and maintaining competency. This includes documenting past experiences and various forms of knowledge gathering in addition to certifications. Whether it's an internal staff member or an external contractor temporarily filling a role, thorough documentation of meeting ISMS requirements is essential.

Clause 7.3 - Awareness

Awareness and competence go hand in hand. Ensuring that employees are aware of ISMS functions and how their roles impact them is foundational. Going beyond, employees need to understand why improved information security matters and the potential consequences of not complying with ISMS requirements. While employees need not recite the information security policy verbatim, they should comprehend their responsibilities and how their roles align within the organisation. This can be achieved through documented policies, induction processes, and regular meetings.

Clause 7.4 - Communication

Communication is fundamental, and this clause emphasizes determining the need for internal and external communications relevant to the ISMS. A documented procedure outlining different forms of communication, expected discussions in meetings, and responsible parties ensures consistent recording and documentation throughout the business.

Key Takeaways

1. Assess and secure all necessary resources for your ISMS.
2. Establish a plan/process for acquiring, providing, maintaining, and reviewing these resources.
3. Define competencies for each ISMS role, document decisions, and address gaps.
4. Ensure staff understand the Information Security Policy, their role, and the implications of compliance.
5. Develop a comprehensive communication plan, covering internal and external channels, content, frequency, classification needs, and responsible parties.

Implementing these takeaways will set a strong foundation for meeting ISO 27001 requirements in these critical clauses.

Provided by DQS

• DQS provides accredited ISO 27001 Certification and ISO 27701 Certification services
• DQS HK provides Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA)
• DQS HK provides  Security Risk Assessment & Audit (SRAA)
• DQS Academy provides ISO 27001:2022 Internal Auditor Training
• DQS Academy provides ISO 27701:2019 PIMS Understanding Training