Using BS 7799 to implement best practice
Sapphire Technologies is a leading independent provider of information security solutions. Based in Stockton-on-Tees, the company has 30 employees and is BS 7799-certified.
Working in the fast-paced field of information security, Sapphire Technologies has attained demonstrable benefits from the implementation of BS 7799. Director of security Keith Foggon outlines some of the benefits the standard provides to his business and its customers, including:
- immediate financial rewards
- competitive advantage in the marketplace
- strengthened internal processes.
How worthwhile is Sapphire Technologies’ BS 7799 certification?
The company’s methodology is strongly founded on the requirements of BS 7799. As awareness grows, compliance with standards such as these is becoming an increasingly common requirement from customers and government.
- Keith Foggon says:
“It takes about one day of our time each month, but it’s extremely worthwhile. It’s great to be involved with shaping a standard that affects your company.”
Read more about how standards are used.
What statement does BS 7799 send to Sapphire Technologies’ clients?
Sapphire Technologies, rightly proud of the standards they have achieved, publicize those achievements whenever they can. Furthermore, they have deepened their involvement in the development of BS 7799 through participation in a Department of Trade and Industry user group, giving them the opportunity to lead by example.
- Keith Foggon says:
“We decided it would be a good idea to get certified to prove to our clients that our systems were secure. It also gives us the confidence that our systems are functioning in the way they should.”
How else can this demonstration of commitment serve the business world?
Sapphire Technologies’ understanding of the importance of standards is such that, in addition to complying themselves, they also advise other firms on reasons and methods for achieving BS 7799 compliance. By encouraging participation, the entire industry benefits.
- Keith Foggon says:
“It helps companies by covering such factors as virus threats and disaster-recovery methods. With an ever-increasing number of information security breaches being reported, organizations need to protect themselves and their customers.”
Read more about the benefits of standardization.
How important is awareness of BS 7799 to the wider business world?
As the modern business environment and associated legislation evolve so rapidly, individuals and organizations look for suppliers to demonstrate compliance with the goal-based regulation provided by standards to protect against risk.
- Keith Foggon says:
“Intellectual property and other sensitive business-critical information is the lifeblood of many organizations today. The standard itself isn’t just for information technology firms – any business can benefit from it. Compliance also enables businesses to meet legal requirements, such as data-protection regulations and the Freedom of Information Act.”
