Principles

Guiding Values of the ISACO Framework

The International Systems Assurance & Certification Organization (ISACO) is built on a set of core principles that guide how organizations design, operate, and improve their internal systems. These principles apply to all organization sizes, from small enterprises to multinational corporations, ensuring flexibility and global relevance.

Customer Focus & Stakeholder Value

Organizations must understand and meet the needs of customers and key stakeholders.
Effective systems consistently deliver value, build trust, and enhance the overall experience of those they serve.

Leadership & Accountability

Leaders establish direction, create alignment, and ensure accountability across the organization.
Strong governance ensures that systems are implemented, maintained, and continually strengthened.

Engagement of People

People at all levels contribute to the strength and reliability of organizational systems.
Engaged, trained, and empowered employees are essential to consistent performance and continuous improvement.

Process Approach & Consistency

High-performing organizations manage activities as interconnected processes, not isolated tasks.
A process-based approach ensures predictability, reduces variation, and supports consistent and reliable outcomes.

Continuous Improvement

Systems must evolve over time.
Organizations are expected to maintain structured improvement cycles, proactively identify opportunities, and refine processes for greater efficiency and performance.

Evidence-Based Decisions

Decisions must be driven by data, measurement, analysis, and documented results — not assumptions.
Evidence-based decision-making enhances clarity, reduces risk, and supports sustainable improvement.

Responsible Relationship Management

Long-term success depends on trustworthy and responsible relationships with customers, suppliers, partners, and stakeholders.
Organizations should foster collaboration, transparency, and ethical conduct in all interactions.

Applicable to All Organization Sizes

The ISACO Principles are designed to be scalable and adaptable for:

  • Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
  • Growing organizations
  • Large corporations
  • Multinational enterprises

Regardless of scale, every organization can apply these principles to strengthen systems, improve reliability, and achieve sustained operational excellence.