Insights

How to make information security part of the management system

Written by: Jan H. Andersen, CTO at IPW Systems A/S

Information security is a strategic necessity. The challenge is how to make it an integrated part of the company’s management system – instead of letting it operate independently within the IT department. The solution is to establish an Information Security Management System (ISMS) that makes security a manageable, systematic, and embedded part of the organization.

ISMS – the management system for information security

An ISMS is not merely a compliance requirement. It is a structured management system that ensures information security is connected to the company’s strategy, risk management, and operations.

An ISO 27001 certification can document the work and provide formal validation, but the real value lies in the ISMS itself: a framework that makes security measurable, continuous, and business-oriented. The point is clear: Security must become a natural part of the company’s management system.

From IT function to business discipline

With an ISMS, security can be linked to governance, risk management, and business objectives – turning it into a management tool for the entire organization, not just an isolated process within the IT department.

Establishing an ISMS therefore involves:

Reusing existing processes instead of building parallel systems – for example for risk management, nonconformities, and document control.
Aligning GDPR and ISMS, so governance and reporting are handled cohesively
Coordinating audits across ISO 27001, 9001, 14001, and 45001 to save resources and create holistic insight.
Linking security to business objectives so the ISMS becomes a genuine strategic management tool – not a paper exercise

Change and culture

An ISMS only works when it becomes part of everyday operations. Most security breaches are caused by human error, so the system must be supported by behavior, culture, and continuous improvement.

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Effective initiatives may include:

Making risks tangible through real-life scenarios rather than theory.
Designing processes that promote correct behavior without creating friction.
Using microlearning and quizzes instead of heavy workshops.
Ensuring leadership leads by example – both formally and informally.
Integrating security into onboarding so new employees adopt the culture from day one.