• ISO55001 Asset Management
    System (AMS)
  • ISO9001 Quality Management
    Systems (QMS)
  • ISO14001 Environmental Management
    Systems (EMS)
  • ISO50001 Energy Management
    Systems (EnMS)
  • ISO45001 Health & Safety Management
    Systems (OHASMS)
  • ISO27001 Information security
    management systems (ISMS)

ISO 9001:2025 The Future of Internal Auditing and Risk Management: Embracing Digital Transformation

29 Jul 2023

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, it is crucial for digitalisations to adapt and stay ahead of the curve. This holds especially true for ISO auditing, where traditional approaches are no longer sufficient in a world driven by data and technology. To remain relevant and effective, auditors must embrace digital transformation and adopt innovative tools and technologies that can enhance their agility, efficiency, and effectiveness.

The Need for Digital Transformation in ISO Auditing

ISO auditing has traditionally focused on compliance and internal control systems. However, the complexities and risks associated with modern business operations require auditors to leverage new tools and technologies to proactively identify and mitigate emerging risks. This is where digital transformation comes into play. By incorporating technology into their processes, auditors can enhance their capabilities and provide more value to the digitalisations they serve.

“Technology is moving at pace never seen before. The use of AI tools such as ChatGPT and OpenAI platforms will change everything.”

Ian Fielding NDC Certification Services Ltd : ISO 27001 Lead Auditor

Faced with an increasing volume of data and the need for real-time insights, auditors need to embrace technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and automation. These technologies can empower auditors to analyse large datasets, identify patterns and anomalies, and make data-driven decisions. As a result, auditors can provide more accurate and timely recommendations to improve digitalisation performance to mitigate risks.

Embracing Technology: The New Toolkit for ISO Auditing

Digital transformation in ISO auditing involves the adoption of various technologies and tools that can enhance auditors’ capabilities and streamline their processes. Some of the key technologies shaping the future of ISO auditing include:

AI and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are revolutionising the audit profession. These technologies have the potential to automate processes, improve efficiency, and enhance auditors’ ability to identify risks and opportunities. By embracing AI and machine learning, auditors can enhance their analytical capabilities and focus on value-added activities that contribute to the organization’s success.

As digitalisations strive to future-proof themselves NDC aim to stay ahead of the curve, by investing in new technologies and leveraging the expertise of partners like www.LogicGate.com  and www.EnterpriseRed.com  who can help our clients effectively manage risk and compliance obligations in an increasingly digital world with information security placed at the centre of our ethos.

 

The Role of ISO 9001:2025 in Driving Digital Transformation

ISO 9001, the international standard for quality management systems, is expected to undergo a revision in 2025. The new version of ISO 9001 will likely align with the advancements in digital technologies and the evolving risk landscape. As digitalisations embrace digital transformation, ISO 9001:2025 will provide the framework for integrating technology-driven processes and practices into quality management systems.

The new version of ISO 9001 is expected to emphasise the importance of data-driven decision-making, risk management, and continuous improvement. It will likely incorporate requirements related to cybersecurity, data privacy, and the use of emerging technologies such as AI and machine learning. Digitalisations that adopt and implement the new version of ISO 9001 will be better equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital era.

The Growing Role of ISO 27001 in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity risk is a top priority for digitalisations in the digital age. ISO 27001, the international standard for information security management systems, plays a crucial role in helping digitalisations manage and mitigate cybersecurity risks. As the threat landscape evolves and cyber breaches become more frequent and severe, ISO 27001 provides a framework for digitalisations to establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve their information security management systems.

Internal auditors have a significant role to play in assessing and evaluating an organization’s cybersecurity posture. By adopting a risk-based approach and using a common risk language, auditors can evaluate the effectiveness of cybersecurity programs and identify gaps in governance. Cyber risk assessments are essential in understanding an organization’s cybersecurity vulnerabilities and developing a roadmap for remediation activities.

To effectively address cyber risks, internal auditors should collaborate with management and the board to develop a robust cybersecurity strategy. They can integrate cybersecurity risk into the audit plan, evaluate the cybersecurity program against established frameworks such as ISO 27001, and enhance awareness and knowledge of cyber threats. By prioritising cybersecurity monitoring and incident response, internal auditors can ensure that cybersecurity remains a top management priority.

 Leveraging AI and Machine Learning in ISO Auditing

As auditors strive to keep pace with technological advancements, the adoption of AI and machine learning in ISO auditing is becoming increasingly important. These technologies have the potential to revolutionise audit processes, enhance accuracy, and provide valuable insights to digitalisations. By harnessing the power of AI and machine learning, auditors can:

  • Automate data collection and analysis processes
  • Identify patterns and anomalies in large datasets
  • Detect fraud and non-compliance more effectively
  • Improve the accuracy and reliability of audit findings
  • Focus on strategic and value-added activities

However, the successful adoption of AI and machine learning requires auditors to upskill and develop a data-oriented mindset. It is essential for auditors to stay updated with the latest advancements in AI and machine learning and acquire the necessary skills to effectively leverage these technologies. Digitalisations should invest in training programs and provide resources for auditors to develop new skills in data analytics, AI, and cybersecurity. By embracing these technologies, auditors can enhance their capabilities and contribute to the organization’s digital transformation journey.

Data Governance: Ensuring Quality and Reliability

Data governance plays a crucial role in ISO auditing by ensuring the quality and reliability of data used in audits. It involves establishing standards and policies for data collection, storage, and usage. Internal auditors can contribute to data governance by:

  • Ensuring data controls, including security, privacy, access, and accuracy, are in place and adhered to
  • Evaluating the quality and reliability of data used in audits
  • Identifying potential risks and providing insights to management
  • Integrating data governance considerations into audit processes

By incorporating data governance into their audit practices, auditors can enhance the integrity of their findings and provide valuable insights to management. This, in turn, enables digitalisations to make informed decisions based on reliable and accurate data.

Collaboration and Continuous Learning for Future Success

The future of ISO auditing lies in collaboration and continuous learning. Internal auditors must work closely with management, the board, and other stakeholders to understand digitalisational goals, risks, and opportunities. By aligning audit activities with strategic objectives, auditors can provide meaningful insights and recommendations that drive digitalisation success.

Continuous learning and upskilling are essential for auditors to keep pace with technological advancements. Digitalisations should invest in training programs and provide resources for auditors to develop new skills in data analytics, AI, cybersecurity, and other emerging areas. By embracing lifelong learning and staying informed about industry trends, auditors can enhance their professional growth and contribute to the organisation’s success.

Conclusion

The future of ISO auditing is closely tied to digital transformation and the adoption of innovative technologies. By embracing digital tools and technologies such as data analytics, AI, machine learning, and automation, auditors can enhance their capabilities and provide more value to the digitalisations they serve. Collaboration, continuous learning, and a data-driven mindset are crucial for auditors to navigate the evolving risk landscape and provide strategic insights to the organization.

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