As organisations settle into modified routines to accommodate and recognise the irreversibly changing landscape that we must become accustomed to, there are a number of key considerations to reflect upon which may include:
- Enabling effective working practices for our people
- Securing our data and assets
- Enhancing the resiliency of our operations and supply chains
This upcoming period of reflection can be framed as an opportunity to reset and re-level the organisation, whilst at the same time rebuilding strategic objectives.
This may also provide an opportunity to develop the organisational approach to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – “The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a historic global agreement to eradicate extreme poverty, fight inequality and injustice and leave no one behind.”(gov.uk)
The UK Government’s July 2021 Corporate report ‘Implementing the Sustainable Development Goals’ cites “the most effective way to do this is by ensuring that the Goals are fully embedded in the planned activity of each Government department”.
Likewise, as organisations reset and re-level, focusing on how they implement the SDGs brings numerous benefits to their brand reputation and sustainability. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has mapped the standards that make the most significant contribution to the 17 SDGs to enable organisations to develop their own approaches.
For example, there are some specific ISO Standards that are being adopted to demonstrate lawful and responsible business practices such as ISO 37002:2021 (Whistleblowing) which contribute to SDGs 8,11 and 16 and joins the series with ISO 37001:2016 (Anti-Bribery), there are also standards such as ISO 55001:2014 (Asset Management) which addresses the lifecycle of asset ownership to manage cost and risks. This is in addition to the foundational standards ISO:9001:2015 (Quality), ISO 27001:2013 (Information Security), ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health & Safety), and ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management).
ISO Standards typically have a standard framework of clauses known as the High-Level Structure (HLS) which provides the basis for the management systems. This means that building up an integrated management system tailored to your organisation can be a cost-effective and robust way to incorporate good practices and demonstrate your contribution to the SDGs.
Taking a multi-pronged approach with the respective ISO Standards when reviewing your 3-5 year strategy will create a framework based on internationally recognised good practices to address your internal and external challenges.
If you’re ready to reset and re-level your organisational strategy maybe it is time to consider an ISO orientated approach that inculcates good practices and demonstrates to your stakeholders that your business is being responsibly and sustainably managed.
Please contact us to learn more about ISO Management Systems and how they can help your organisation achieve its sustainable development goals.
