Your Roadmap to
ISO 27001 Certification
A practical 6-month implementation plan for Irish SMEs. Understand the costs, timeline, and exact steps to achieve internationally recognised information security certification.
Why ISO 27001 Matters for Irish SMEs
Win Enterprise Contracts
Many large organisations require ISO 27001 from their suppliers
Reduce Breach Risk
Systematic approach to identifying and managing security risks
Regulatory Compliance
Supports GDPR, NIS2, and industry-specific requirements
Competitive Advantage
Differentiate your business with internationally recognised certification
What Does ISO 27001 Cost?
€15K - €30K
Small SME (20-50 staff)
Simpler scope, fewer controls
€30K - €60K
Medium SME (50-150 staff)
Multiple offices or systems
€60K - €100K+
Larger SME (150-500 staff)
Complex IT, multiple locations
Irish SMEs may qualify for grants covering up to 50% of these costs. Check your eligibility.
6-Month Implementation Timeline
A realistic timeline for Irish SMEs. Each phase builds on the previous one.
Phase 1: Gap Analysis & Planning
Weeks 1-4Conduct ISO 27001 gap analysis against Annex A controls
Define scope of your ISMS (Information Security Management System)
Identify key stakeholders and assign roles
Create project plan with milestones and deadlines
Phase 2: Risk Assessment
Weeks 5-8Identify information assets and their owners
Conduct formal risk assessment (likelihood × impact)
Create risk treatment plan with prioritised controls
Document risk acceptance criteria and residual risks
Phase 3: Policy & Controls Implementation
Weeks 9-16Develop mandatory ISMS documentation (policies, procedures)
Implement technical controls (access management, encryption, monitoring)
Establish supplier management and third-party risk processes
Deploy security awareness training programme
Phase 4: Internal Audit & Management Review
Weeks 17-20Conduct internal audit against ISO 27001 requirements
Address non-conformities and observations
Hold management review meeting
Update risk register and treatment plans
Phase 5: Certification Audit
Weeks 21-26Stage 1 audit: documentation review by certification body
Address any Stage 1 findings
Stage 2 audit: on-site assessment of ISMS effectiveness
Receive ISO 27001 certification
Ready to Start Your ISO 27001 Journey?
We've guided multiple Irish SMEs through ISO 27001 certification. Book a free call to discuss your timeline and requirements.