System Guides

ISO 18788 - Clause 4.1.3 - SOMS External context

ISO 18788 Clause 4.1.3 addresses the requirement to determine the external context of the Security Operations Management System (SOMS). Understanding the external context is crucial for the effective establishment, implementation, and maintenance of the SOMS. Here's an explanation of the key elements of this clause:

Clause 4.1.3 - SOMS External Context:

1. Understanding the External Environment: The organization should have a clear understanding of its external environment, including the factors, conditions, and stakeholders that can affect or be affected by security operations.

2. Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Identify and monitor the relevant legal and regulatory requirements related to security operations. This includes national and international laws, standards, and industry-specific regulations.

3. Industry Trends: Stay informed about trends and developments in the security industry that could impact security operations. This includes emerging threats, technologies, and best practices.

4. Community and Public Perception: Consider the perceptions and expectations of the local community and the public regarding security operations. Understanding these perceptions can help in building trust and managing reputational risks.

5. Economic Factors: Assess economic factors such as market conditions, economic stability, and currency fluctuations that may affect the organization's ability to allocate resources to security operations.

6. Political and Social Factors: Consider political stability, social issues, and geopolitical factors that can impact security operations, especially if operations extend across different regions or countries.

7. Stakeholder Interests: Identify and engage with external stakeholders, including clients, customers, suppliers, partners, and regulatory authorities, to understand their interests and security expectations.

8. Cultural and Social Dynamics: Recognize cultural and social dynamics that may influence security practices and behaviors in different regions or communities.

9. Competitive Landscape: Analyze the competitive landscape within the security industry and the organization's position within it. This includes evaluating competitors' practices and capabilities.

10. Environmental Factors: Assess environmental factors, including climate conditions and natural disasters, that may impact security operations, especially in outdoor or remote locations.

11. Global and Local Events: Stay informed about global and local events, crises, or incidents that may have security implications and require adjustments to security operations.

12. Technological Advancements: Monitor technological advancements and innovations that can enhance or disrupt security operations, such as new surveillance technologies or cyber threats.

13. Evolving Threats: Stay vigilant about evolving security threats, both physical and cyber, and adapt security measures accordingly.

By addressing these elements, organizations can gain a comprehensive understanding of their external context, which is critical for aligning security operations with external factors and stakeholders' expectations.

Please note that specific processes and documentation related to understanding the external context should be developed and tailored to the organization's unique needs and circumstances.

ISO 18788 - Clause 4.1.4 - SOMS Supply chain and subcontractor mapping and analysis

ISO 18788 Clause 4.1.4 focuses on the requirement for supply chain and subcontractor mapping and analysis within the Security Operations Management System (SOMS). This clause emphasizes the importance of understanding and assessing the supply chain and subcontractor relationships to manage security risks effectively. Here's an explanation of the key elements of this clause:

Clause 4.1.4 - SOMS Supply Chain and Subcontractor Mapping and Analysis:

1. Identification and Documentation: The organization should identify and document its supply chain, which includes the suppliers and subcontractors involved in security operations. This documentation should encompass key details about each entity within the supply chain, such as contact information, roles, responsibilities, and the nature of the goods or services provided.

2. Risk Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment of the supply chain and subcontractor relationships. This assessment should consider security risks associated with the goods or services provided, the geographic locations of suppliers and subcontractors, and the potential impact on security operations.

3. Security Requirements: Clearly define security requirements and expectations for suppliers and subcontractors. These requirements may include security standards, codes of conduct, confidentiality agreements, and compliance with the organization's security policies.

4. Due Diligence: Perform due diligence on suppliers and subcontractors to ensure they meet the required security standards and possess the necessary qualifications and certifications. This may involve background checks, audits, and assessments.

5. Contractual Agreements: Establish contractual agreements with suppliers and subcontractors that explicitly outline security responsibilities, expectations, and compliance requirements. These agreements should specify the consequences of non-compliance.

6. Monitoring and Review: Implement a monitoring and review process to assess the ongoing performance and compliance of suppliers and subcontractors with security requirements. This may include regular audits, inspections, and performance evaluations.

7. Communication: Maintain open and effective communication channels with suppliers and subcontractors to address security concerns, share security-related information, and collaborate on security improvements.

8. Contingency Planning: Develop contingency plans to address potential disruptions in the supply chain or subcontractor relationships. These plans should outline alternative sources or measures to ensure security operations continue in the event of disruptions.

9. Continuous Improvement: Use the information gathered from supply chain and subcontractor mapping and analysis to drive continuous improvement in security operations. Lessons learned from this process can inform security enhancements and risk mitigation strategies.

By effectively mapping and analyzing the supply chain and subcontractor relationships, organizations can enhance security resilience, minimize vulnerabilities, and ensure that security standards are maintained throughout the entire network of entities involved in security operations.

Please note that specific procedures and documentation related to supply chain and subcontractor mapping and analysis should be developed and implemented according to the organization's unique needs and the requirements of ISO 18788.