ISMS Implementation: From Gap Analysis to ISO 27001 Certification
An ISMS is not a paper exercise — it is the operational backbone of your information security. Whether building from scratch to ISO 27001:2022, transitioning from the 2013 version, or optimizing an existing system: ADVISORI brings experience from over 50 ISMS projects. Our proven roadmap guides you in 6–12 months from initial gap analysis through structured ISMS build-up to successful certification — audit-proof and practical.
- ✓ISMS implementation and certification according to ISO 27001:2022
- ✓93 controls in 4 categories — implemented in a structured manner
- ✓TISAX readiness for automotive suppliers
- ✓NIS2- and DORA-compliant security architecture
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Building an ISMS: The Roadmap to ISO 27001 Certification
Why Choose ADVISORI?
- Deep regulatory and industry expertise
- Proven track record with leading organizations
- Practical, implementation-focused approach
- End-to-end support from assessment to implementation
Expert Consultation Available
Contact our specialists today for a personalized assessment of your requirements.
ADVISORI in Numbers
11+
Years of Experience
120+
Employees
520+
Projects
Every organization is different — your ISMS must reflect that. We work iteratively, pragmatically, and always with certification in mind.
Our Approach:
Scoping & Gap Analysis: Assessment of the current state against ISO 27001:2022, identification of critical gaps, and definition of the ISMS scope
Risk Assessment & Statement of Applicability: Systematic risk analysis and derivation of applicable controls from Annex A
Implementation: Development of policies, processes, and technical controls — aligned with your IT landscape and organization
Training & Awareness: Embedding a security culture — from the board to student interns
Internal Audit & Management Review: Assessment of ISMS effectiveness and preparation for the external certification audit
Certification Support: Stage 1 + Stage 2 audit preparation, on-site accompaniment, and follow-up on findings

Sarah Richter
Head of Information Security, Cyber Security
Expertise & Experience:
10+ years of experience, CISA, CISM, Lead Auditor, DORA, NIS2, BCM, Cyber and Information Security
Our Services
We offer you tailored solutions for your digital transformation
ISMS Implementation according to ISO 27001:2022
Complete ISMS implementation from risk methodology through policies and processes to technical controls. Including Statement of Applicability, asset management, and documentation framework — certification-ready in 6–12 months.
ISMS Optimization & Transition
Migrating your existing ISMS to ISO 27001:2022: mapping the new 93 controls, integrating the 11 new requirements (Threat Intelligence, Cloud Security, ICT Readiness for Business Continuity), and closing audit findings.
Certification Support
From pre-audit readiness review through Stage 1 document review to on-site Stage 2 accompaniment. We know the typical pitfalls and prepare you specifically — including follow-up on minor/major non-conformities.
TISAX Assessment Preparation
For automotive suppliers: preparation for the TISAX assessment according to VDA ISA. We identify the gaps between your existing ISMS and TISAX-specific requirements (prototype protection, data protection, integration with OEM processes).
ISMS Integration into Management Systems
Smooth integration of your ISMS into existing ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 systems. Harmonization of documentation, audit cycles, and management reviews — for an integrated management system without duplication of effort.
BSI IT-Grundschutz Implementation
Alternative or complement to ISO 27001: building an ISMS based on the BSI IT-Grundschutz Compendium. Particularly relevant for KRITIS operators and public institutions that require the BSI standard as evidence of compliance.
Our Competencies
Choose the area that fits your requirements
82% of all cyberattacks exploit known vulnerabilities that a structured framework would have prevented (Verizon DBIR 2024). But which framework fits your industry, company size and regulatory environment? ADVISORI develops your individual cyber security strategy — from gap analysis through framework selection to a prioritised security roadmap.
NIS2 enshrines personal liability of senior management for cybersecurity — with fines of up to EUR 10 million or 2% of global turnover. ADVISORI develops governance structures that clearly define board-level responsibilities, present risks transparently in executive dashboards, and position your organization for demonstrable compliance.
German companies suffered EUR 206 billion in total losses from cyberattacks in 2023 (Bitkom). Only 15% invest proactively in security strategy (PwC). ADVISORI develops your cybersecurity strategy based on a structured maturity assessment — with a clear 3-year roadmap, prioritized measures, and a robust business case for executive leadership and the board.
82% of cybersecurity incidents trace back to organizational weaknesses — missing roles, unclear responsibilities, and gaps in escalation paths. Information Security Governance closes this gap by translating strategic protection objectives into binding structures. As an ISO 27001-certified consulting firm with over 150 specialist consultants, ADVISORI designs tailored governance models based on the Three Lines of Defense principle: operational controls (1st Line), risk management and compliance (2nd Line), and independent assurance (3rd Line). We build your CISO office, define your hierarchical policy framework, and conduct governance maturity assessments that quantify your current state and deliver a prioritized roadmap — audit-proof for BaFin, BSI, and ISO audits.
An effective information security strategy is more than a document — it is the strategic compass for all security decisions in your organization. According to the BSI Situation Report 2025, 68% of companies rate the threat level as high or very high, yet only 23% have a comprehensive security strategy. ADVISORI supports you as an experienced strategic advisor in developing a tailored information security strategy: from maturity assessment through security program roadmap to investment planning. Our CISO strategic advisory connects regulatory requirements (NIS2, DORA, ISO 27001) with your business objectives — making security a business enabler. With over 150 specialist consultants and experience from financial institutions, critical infrastructure, and upper mid-market companies, we deliver no standard concepts, but robust strategies with measurable value.
Security metrics that trigger decisions — not just fill dashboards. We develop strategic KPI frameworks for board reporting, security ROI measurement, and maturity scoring based on ISO 27004, NIST CSF, and CIS Benchmarks.
A policy framework is more than a document collection — it is the strategic foundation of your information security. From the overarching information security policy through topic-specific guidelines to operational work instructions: every level must be aligned, meet regulatory requirements, and function in day-to-day operations. ISO 27001 Annex A Control A.5.1 and NIS2 Article 21 require a hierarchical policy set — but the real challenge lies in strategic design: Which policy architecture fits your organization? How do you ensure policies are lived, not shelved? ADVISORI develops policy frameworks with strategic foresight. We combine ISO 27001, BSI IT-Grundschutz (ORP.1), NIST SP 800-53, and industry-specific requirements into a coherent governance framework. Our approach: policy architecture design, structured lifecycle management, and policy compliance automation — for policies that are audit-proof, clearly written, and sustainably maintainable.
An effective IT security strategy starts not with technology, but with prioritization. We analyze your risk landscape, evaluate the cost and benefit of each measure, and develop a security roadmap that deploys your budget where it delivers the greatest protection. Drawing on experience from financial regulatory audits, critical infrastructure environments, and over 150 consultants.
NIS2, DORA, and the BSI Situation Report 2024 make it unambiguous: perimeter security has failed. 70% of all successful cyberattacks exploit lateral movement within the network — exactly what Zero Trust prevents. We implement Zero Trust architectures in accordance with NIST SP 800-207, continuously verifying every identity, every device, and every data stream. As a BeyondTrust partner, we combine strategic consulting with leading PAM technology — for a security architecture that meets regulatory requirements and measurably reduces attack surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions about Information Security Management Strategy
What is the difference between ISO 27001 and BSI IT-Grundschutz?
ISO 27001 is an international standard with a risk-based approach — you define which controls are relevant. BSI IT-Grundschutz is more detailed and prescribes specific measures (building blocks). ISO 27001 is globally recognized and suitable for international organizations. BSI IT-Grundschutz is particularly prevalent in Germany, especially among KRITIS operators and public authorities. Both can be combined: an ISO 27001 certification based on IT-Grundschutz combines the advantages of both approaches.
How long does an ISO 27001 certification take?
The typical timeframe is 6–12 months from project start to a successful Stage
2 audit. The duration depends on the current maturity level, the scope, and the available internal resources. Organizations with an existing management system (e.g., ISO 9001) can often achieve certification faster, as structures such as internal audit and management review are already established.
What does ISMS implementation and certification cost?
The pure certification costs (auditor fees) range from EUR 10,000–30,
000 depending on company size and scope. The larger investment block is preparation: internal resources, consulting, tool implementation, and training. A realistic total budget for a mid-sized company is EUR 50,000–150,000. ADVISORI helps deploy this budget efficiently and avoid overengineering.
Is ISO 27001 mandatory under NIS2?
NIS 2 does not mandate a specific framework, but requires systematic risk management, incident management, supply chain security, and governance structures — all core elements of an ISMS based on ISO 27001. In practice, an ISO 27001 certification is the most efficient way to demonstrate NIS 2 compliance. In addition, management bears personal responsibility for cybersecurity — another reason for a structured ISMS.
What changes with ISO 27001:2022 compared to 2013?
The key changes concern Annex A: instead of
114 controls in
14 groups, there are now
93 controls in
4 categories (organizational, people, physical, technological).
11 new controls have been introduced, including Threat Intelligence, Cloud Security, ICT Readiness for Business Continuity, and Data Masking. The transition deadline was
31 October
2025 — certifications based on the
2013 version are no longer valid.
What is TISAX and do we need it?
TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is the information security standard of the automotive industry, based on the VDA ISA questionnaire. If you are a supplier or service provider for OEMs such as VW, BMW, or Mercedes, a TISAX assessment is generally a prerequisite for collaboration. TISAX and ISO 27001 have significant overlaps — an existing ISMS considerably facilitates TISAX readiness.
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