What is ISO 27001 and why is it important?
In today’s landscape of connected systems and data, cybersecurity is no longer a buzzword. It’s now an integral part of the work – and the risk profile – that should be factored in to development on every digital project. As more of our personal and professional lives move online, the trade-off with increased convenience and efficiency is that these threats are not disappearing anytime soon.
If you’re planning to launch a new application or website, how can you ensure it’s secure from the start? One way to put your mind at ease is to work with a web development partner that has attained ISO 27001 certification.
ISO 27001 is a globally recognised standard for managing information security. Developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), it sets out what an organisation needs to do to protect data and manage risks effectively.
Simply put, if a web development company is ISO 27001-certified, then it has proven it has strong processes in place to keep your information safe. ISO 27001-certified providers, such as OWA, are regularly audited by an external body, follow strict protocols, and are committed to protecting both our own data and yours. It’s a solid foundation for any piece of development where security matters – which, these days, should mean all projects.
What about sensitive data?
One of the biggest concerns organisations may have is whether your partners are truly up to the job when it comes to safeguarding sensitive data. This is especially true with healthcare, financial and legal services, where breaches can have serious consequences.
When you work with an ISO 27001-certified web development company you’re choosing a team that takes your concerns seriously. Certification communicates something clear about your provider – an understanding of the risks, and steps that have been taken to control them. For technical and non-technical decision-makers alike, it’s a reassuring signal that the team you’ve hired knows what it's doing – and that it is accountable.
How does security fit into the development process?
Web development has many moving parts – from scoping, design and development to testing, hosting and maintenance. Each stage poses potential security risks for your website or application.
An ISO 27001-certified provider will integrate security into every phase. We will use secure coding practices, encrypt data in transit – and, if required, at rest – restrict access to source code and log changes so everything’s traceable. It’s about baking in security from the start, not bolting it on later. For you, this means fewer vulnerabilities, fewer headaches, and more confidence that things are being done right the first time.
What about legal compliance?
With GDPR and other data protection laws placing strict demands on how personal data is collected and managed in the UK, it’s normal for this to be on your radar. Developers working under ISO 27001 already follow many of the same principles, such as minimising risk, documenting procedures and reviewing processes regularly.
By engaging a certified developer, you’re demonstrating due diligence. You’re not only protecting your users, but also reducing your own exposure to regulatory risk or reputational harm.
Will this help to streamline my project?
It can certainly help. While ISO 27001 is focused on information security, the framework encourages clear communication, defined roles and structured workflows – all of which make projects run more smoothly.
A developer operating to this standard is likely to have a solid project management approach, reliable communication habits and a consistent way of working. That translates into timely updates, fewer misunderstandings and a more efficient build process.
When challenges arise – as they inevitably do – there will already be plans and mitigations in place. That means less scrambling, fewer surprises, and more confidence for you as a client. If you’re managing a digital project without deep technical knowledge, this structured approach can take a lot of stress out of the process.
Taking the worry out of web development
Launching a new website or digital platform can feel daunting, especially when security and compliance are on the line. Choosing an IS0 27001-certified web development company, such as OWA, won’t remove every risk but it significantly reduces many of the most common ones.
In a world where cyber threats are growing and regulators are watching, working with a developer who truly understands security is more than just a smart move – it’s a step towards peace of mind. For decision makers and stakeholders alike, it’s reassuring to know your project and data are in the safest possible hands.