Contributor: Jeremy Tillery, Manager, Cybersecurity Services
A construction and architectural services firm (the Company) engaged Cherry Bekaert for support in navigating the ISO 27001 certification journey and achieving certification on schedule.
While the Company began developing its information security management system (ISMS), several requirements and assessment activities remained before certification could be achieved.
Compressed Timelines and First-Time Certification
On its path to ISO 27001 certification, the Company faced a compressed timeline, which proved to be a significant challenge, as the organization needed to achieve certification to meet an important business deadline.
During that period, leadership still needed to complete several required activities, including an internal audit, management review processes, and formal certification audits. The Company needed support coordinating these efforts while maintaining audit quality.
Additionally, the Company was navigating the ISO 27001 certification process for the first time. Organizational leadership needed to develop and refine key documentation, including scope statement, statement of applicability, and supporting evidence demonstrating alignment with ISO 27001 requirements and Annex A controls. At the same time, stakeholders needed guidance on what to expect throughout the process and how to prepare for assessment activities.
The combination of a strict deadline and the complexity of preparing for certification required a structured approach and practical guidance to help keep the initiative on track.
Structured Methodology and Collaboration
Cherry Bekaert worked closely with the Company throughout the engagement, helping the organization navigate both Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits.
Through its relationship with an accredited certification body, Cherry Bekaert conducted assessment activities and maintained ongoing communication with stakeholders throughout the process. The team reviewed documentation and evaluated evidence against applicable ISO 27001 requirements while keeping the engagement on track with the required timeline.
By combining a structured methodology with close collaboration, Cherry Bekaert helped the Company navigate a complex certification effort and remain on track to meet its deadline.
Successful Certification and Enhanced Credibility
The Company successfully achieved ISO 27001 certification within the required timeframe, satisfying an important business requirement and strengthening its information security program.
Key Results
- Achieved ISO 27001 certification within the required timeframe
- Met a critical business requirement
- Strengthened the organization's information security program
- Enhanced credibility with customers and stakeholders
- Positioned the company for future business opportunities and growth
The certification demonstrated that the Company's ISMS had been assessed against a globally recognized standard and reinforced its commitment to managing information security risks through established policies, processes, and controls.
Looking Ahead: Positioned for Growth
With ISO 27001 certification in place, the Company is well-positioned to pursue new opportunities and strengthen its competitive position in the marketplace.
The certification provides clients and prospective clients with assurance that the Company’s information security management system has been independently assessed against a globally recognized standard. As a result, the organization can more effectively demonstrate its commitment to information security and risk management.
Additionally, certification helps remove barriers to future business opportunities by enabling the Company to satisfy client and contractual requirements that call for ISO 27001 certification. The organization can now leverage its certification to support business development efforts, pursue new engagements, and expand into opportunities that may previously have been inaccessible.
Your Guide Forward
Cherry Bekaert’s Cybersecurity professionals offer a variety of services across industries to help organizations improve trust and mitigate risk. Our ISO Certification and Readiness Services help streamline the process so companies can approach certification with confidence. We help identify compliance gaps and strengthen governance programs through readiness assessments, internal audits, and more.
Connect with a Cherry Bekaert advisor to learn more.
