27001 Audit Simulation

Introducing the ISO 27001 Audit Readiness Workshop by Canadian Cyber

To support customers scheduled for an external ISO 27001 audit, Canadian Cyber is excited to launch a new Audit Simulation Workshop. This service is designed to help customers prepare effectively for their upcoming audit by familiarizing them with the external audit process and equipping them with practical skills and knowledge. The workshop will be facilitated by an experienced ISO 27001 External Auditor and delivered across three sessions, each lasting approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Through simulated scenarios, interactive exercises, and expert guidance on audit logistics, participants will gain confidence and clarity on critical components such as the Audit Plan, Audit Schedule, Stage 1, Stage 2, and the Audit Report.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the workshop’s structure and content.

Workshop Overview

Title: ISO 27001 Audit Simulation Workshop

Objective: To prepare customers for their external ISO 27001 audit by providing hands-on experience with the audit process, documentation requirements, and auditor interactions, while offering practical logistical guidance.

Pre-Requisite: Customers must have completed their implementation and internal audit as a pre-requisite for this service.

Duration: Three sessions, each 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Delivery: Flexible format—available virtually or in-person based on customer preference.

Participants: CISO, IT Manager, HR, Physical Security, Legal and Compliance

Facilitator: An experienced ISO 27001 External Auditor and Project Manager with strong facilitation skills.

The workshop is tailored to customers pursuing ISO 27001 certification, focusing on the two-stage external audit process:

• Stage 1: Documentation review to confirm compliance with the ISO 27001 standard.
• Stage 2: Implementation audit to verify that the Information Security Management System (ISMS) is effectively applied.

Workshop Structure

The workshop is divided into three sessions, each targeting specific aspects of the ISO 27001 audit process. Each session includes explanations, simulations, and practical tips to ensure participants are well-prepared.

Session 1: Audit Plan and Schedule

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

Objective: Introduce participants to the structure and preparation of an audit plan and schedule.

Content:

• Overview of the external audit process and its importance.
• The Audit Plan:
  • Key components (scope, objectives, criteria).
  • How it is developed and what to expect.
• The Audit Schedule:
  • Typical timeline and sequence of audit activities.
  • Time allocation for Stages 1 and 2.
• Simulation: Participants review a mock audit plan, identifying gaps or errors (e.g., incomplete scope or unrealistic timelines).
• Interactive Exercise: In small groups, participants create a basic audit schedule based on a provided scenario.
• Logistical Guidance: Tips on coordinating internal resources and aligning schedules with the auditor.

Session 2: Stage 1 – Documentation Review

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour

Objective: To ready participants for Stage 1 by focusing on documentation requirements and evaluation.

Content:

• Overview of Stage 1: Purpose and process of the documentation review.
• Key documents examined, including:
  • ISMS manual.
  • Risk assessment reports.
  • Statement of Applicability (SoA).
  • Policies and procedures.
• Simulation: Assess sample documents for ISO 27001 compliance, with the auditor highlighting common issues (e.g., missing risk treatments).
• Interactive Exercise: Use a checklist to evaluate sample documents from an auditor’s viewpoint.
• Logistical Guidance: Best practices for organizing and presenting documentation to auditors.

Session 3: Stage 2 – Implementation Audit and Audit Report

Duration: Approximately 1 hour

Objective: To prepare participants for Stage 2 and post-audit steps, including interpreting the audit report.

Content:

• Overview of Stage 2: How auditors verify ISMS implementation via:
  • Staff interviews.
  • Process observations.
  • Records and evidence review.
• Simulation: Role-play audit scenarios with typical auditor questions (e.g., “How do you ensure control X is effective?”), followed by feedback to refine responses.
• Interactive Exercise: Alternate between auditor and auditee roles for dual perspectives.
• The Audit Report:
  • Contents (findings, non-conformities, observations).
  • How to interpret and address findings.
• Logistical Guidance: Tips for preparing the audit environment (e.g., room setup), managing resources, and handling follow-ups.

Key Features

• Interactive and Engaging: Sessions feature simulations and exercises (e.g., mock plan reviews, document assessments, audit role-plays) for active, practical learning.
• Real-World Scenarios: Based on common audit challenges—like incomplete documentation or unclear controls—for relevant, actionable insights.
• Supporting Materials: Includes handouts, sample documents, checklists, and a preparation guide for ongoing reference.
• Recap and Q&A: Sessions 2 and 3 start with a recap of prior content, and each concludes with a Q&A for tailored clarification.

Outcomes for Participants

By the workshop’s end, participants will:

1) Grasp the structure and flow of an ISO 27001 external audit.

2) Master creating and reviewing audit plans and schedules.

3) Understand Stage 1 documentation requirements and evaluation criteria.

4) Be ready to answer auditor questions and showcase ISMS implementation in Stage 2.

5) Know how to interpret and address audit report findings.

6) Approach their external audit with confidence and reduced stress.

Delivery and Logistics

Flexible Format:

• Virtual: Hosted on an interactive platform (e.g., with breakout rooms for group work).
• In-Person: Held at a suitable venue with all materials provided.

Facilitator: An experienced ISO 27001 External Auditor ensures a high-quality, engaging experience with auditing and facilitation expertise.

Pre-Workshop Preparation: Optional materials (e.g., an ISO 27001 overview) can refresh participants’ knowledge, though a baseline understanding of the standard is assumed.

Why Choose Canadian Cyber’s Audit Readiness Workshop?

This workshop blends expert instruction with hands-on practice, led by a seasoned ISO 27001 External Auditor. Through realistic audit simulations and practical logistical tips, Canadian Cyber empowers customers to excel in their external ISO 27001 audit. Whether your team is new to audits or refining their skills, this service bridges preparation and success.

For more details or to schedule your workshop, contact Canadian Cyber today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the ISO 27001 Audit Simulation Workshop?

Ans: The ISO 27001 Audit Simulation Workshop is a three-session training program offered by Canadian Cyber to help customers prepare for their external ISO 27001 audit. Led by an experienced ISO 27001 External Auditor, it provides practical skills, simulations, and logistical guidance to ensure participants are ready for the audit process.

Q2: Who should attend this workshop?

Ans: This workshop is ideal for organizations pursuing ISO 27001 certification, particularly those scheduled for an external audit. It’s designed for teams or individuals responsible for managing the Information Security Management System (ISMS), including compliance officers, IT managers, and security professionals.

Q3: How long does the workshop take?

Ans: The workshop consists of three sessions, each lasting between 45 minutes and 1 hour. The total duration is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on participant engagement and Q&A time.

Q4: What topics are covered in the workshop?

Ans: The workshop is divided into three sessions:

• Session 1: Understanding the audit plan and schedule.
• Session 2: Preparing for Stage 1 (documentation review).
• Session 3: Navigating Stage 2 (implementation audit) and interpreting the audit report. Each session includes simulations, exercises, and practical tips.

Q5: Is the workshop available online or in-person?

Ans: Yes, the workshop is flexible! You can choose a virtual format (via an interactive platform with features like breakout rooms) or an in-person session at a suitable venue, depending on your preference and location.

Q6: Do I need prior ISO 27001 knowledge to participate?

Ans: The workshop assumes a basic understanding of the standard, and optional pre-workshop materials can be provided to refresh your knowledge if needed. However, the workshop assumes that the customer has implemented ISO 27001 and already gone through Internal Audit process and Management Reviews. These are pre-requisites for a successful workshop.

Q7: What makes this workshop different from other ISO 27001 training?

Ans: Unlike general training, this workshop focuses specifically on audit readiness. It’s led by an experienced ISO 27001 External Auditor and includes hands-on simulations (e.g., reviewing mock plans, role-playing audit scenarios) to mimic real-world audit challenges, plus logistical advice to streamline preparation.

Q8: What materials will I receive during the workshop?

Ans: Participants get supporting materials like handouts, sample documents (e.g., audit plans, checklists), and a preparation guide. These resources are yours to keep for reference during and after your actual audit.

Q9: How will this workshop help me during my external audit?

Ans: By the end, you’ll understand the audit process, know how to prepare and review key documents, confidently respond to auditor questions, and interpret the audit report. The practical exercises and expert feedback will reduce anxiety and boost your readiness.

Q10: How do I schedule a workshop for my team?

Ans: To book the workshop or get more details, simply contact Canadian Cyber through our website or customer support channels. We’ll work with you to arrange a date, format (virtual or in-person), and any specific customizations your team might need.