Security You Can Verify: Achieving ISO 27001:2022

Data breaches and attacks on IT infrastructure are appearing in the news with increasing frequency in 2025. As a result, security, trust, and operational discipline have become more important than ever. 

With that reality in mind, we set out on a deliberate journey to strengthen our information security posture. In September, following a successful external audit, Ideas + Outcomes and Common Thread Group were awarded ISO 27001:2022 certification. 

This internationally recognised standard for information security management systems is more than a badge. It reflects the discipline, rigour, and collective effort across our business to protect data, manage risk, and build systems our clients can rely on. 

Why ISO 27001:2022 Matters 

Information security is no longer a technical concern that sits quietly in IT. It is a commercial requirement. 

ISO 27001:2022 provides a structured framework for establishing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system. It ensures that sensitive data is protected in ways that support trust, regulatory compliance, and contractual assurance. 

Adoption of ISO 27001 has grown rapidly in recent years, with more than 70,000 organisations now certified worldwide. That growth is driven by rising regulatory pressure and by procurement teams demanding verifiable security standards rather than assurances or policy documents. 

For our clients, this certification sends a clear signal. We take data protection seriously and we can evidence it independently. 

That matters in practical terms. 

For SaaS businesses, it means customer data is protected against recognised global standards, reducing operational risk and strengthening trust with users. 

For fintech organisations, it simplifies due diligence and supports compliance conversations around FCA expectations and GDPR obligations. 

For healthcare providers, it strengthens the secure handling of sensitive data and supports frameworks such as the NHS Data Security and Protection Toolkit. 

For e-commerce brands, it helps protect transactional and customer data, reducing exposure to fraud and reputational damage. 

The Journey to Certification 

Achieving ISO 27001:2022 is demanding. It requires a comprehensive review of processes, risks, documentation, and controls across the organisation. 

We began with a clear objective. Align our security practices with a globally recognised standard and embed a culture of continuous improvement. 

The work involved a detailed gap analysis, collaboration across multiple teams, and a series of technical and procedural improvements. Access controls, encryption, incident response, supplier management, and staff training were all reviewed and strengthened. 

The external audit was conducted by Perry Johnson Registrars. Their assessors evaluated our information security management system against all 93 controls across organisational, people, physical, and technological domains. 

From initial scoping to certification, the process took close to six months. 

What This Means for Clients and Partners 

ISO 27001:2022 certification provides confidence. 

It means that when you work with us, you are partnering with an organisation that meets a high, independently verified standard of information security. It also reduces friction in procurement and compliance discussions, particularly for regulated sectors. 

Many procurement teams now view ISO 27001 as a baseline requirement rather than a differentiator. By achieving it, we meet that expectation and commit to maintaining and improving those standards over time. 

Our clients can also demonstrate to their own stakeholders that they have chosen a partner with proven security credentials, not just stated intentions. 

Looking Ahead 

Information security is not something you complete and move on from. It is a living discipline. 

Achieving ISO 27001:2022 marks an important milestone for Ideas + Outcomes and Common Thread Group, but it is also the foundation for ongoing improvement. We will continue to monitor, test, and evolve our systems as threats, technologies, and regulations change. 

A Thank You to the Team 

Our information security management system exists because of collective effort. This certification was made possible by teams across IT, operations, HR, finance, and leadership working together with focus and commitment. 

It reflects not just compliance, but a shared belief that strong security underpins strong partnerships. 

Let’s Talk Security 

If you would like to understand more about our security practices or how ISO 27001:2022 certification supports your own compliance and procurement requirements, we would be happy to talk.