Embracing the Guidance of ISO 22313
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Similarities and Differences
If you’ve delved into ISO 27001 and ISO 27002, you’ll find a similar relationship between ISO 22301 (published in May 2012) and ISO 22313 (published in December 2012). ISO 22301 serves as the primary standard, outlining the framework for business continuity management. Meanwhile, ISO 22313 acts as a supplementary standard, aiding in the implementation of ISO 22301.
The key difference is that ISO 22301 specifies stringent requirements. To be certified, an organization must fully comply with the standard, which uses terms like “shall” and “must.” On the other hand, ISO 22313 offers guidance and best practices for fulfilling ISO 22301’s requirements. It is more flexible, using terms like “should” and “may.” Therefore, certification is possible only against ISO 22301, not ISO 22313.
Where ISO 22313 Shines
ISO 22313 is particularly useful in areas where ISO 22301 lacks detail. Here are some highlights:
Strategy Options for Resources (Clauses 8.3.1 and 8.3.2):
Suggested strategies for protecting prioritized activities and resources
Guidance on what can be excluded from BCMS based on cost
Options to mitigate impact and duration of incidents
Techniques for evaluating supplier business continuity capabilities
Strategies for people, relocation procedures, backup types, worksites, ICT systems, and more
Content of Business Continuity Procedures/Plans (Clause 8.4):
Incident communication procedures
Business continuity procedures
Incident management team location
Communication procedures
Safety and welfare procedures
Salvage and security procedures
Procedures for resuming activities
ICT continuity procedures
Additional Useful Guidance in ISO 22313
ISO 22313 provides valuable guidance in several other clauses:
4.2.1 – Examples of interested parties
4.2.2 – List of relevant legislation
5.3 – Items to include in the Business Continuity Policy
5.4 – Explanation of BCMS roles and responsibilities
6.2 – Examples of BCMS goals
7.1 – Required BCMS resources
7.2 and 7.3 – Competence development programs, types of training, team structures, and awareness programs
7.5.1 – Required documentation
8.1.4 – Metrics for measuring BCMS effectiveness
8.2.2 – Elements of Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
8.2.3 – Typical elements in risk assessment
8.4.5 – Assessment procedure content
8.5.2 – Exercise program content
8.5.3 – Objectives for business continuity exercises
9.1.2 – Evaluation checklist for business continuity procedures and post-incident review content
In summary, unless you’re an experienced BCM consultant or implementer, both ISO 22301 and ISO 22313 are worth obtaining. They may be an investment, but the return will be swift and invaluable.