Travel agencies must be

ISAE 3000 | SOC 2-compliant

Most businesses think of SaaS companies when they think of ISAE 3000 | SOC 2 compliance. However, most businesses in the travel industry (SaaS or not) need to collect and store consumer data to some extent. So, if the company manages a database – large or small – the companies must implement the latest and most effective cybersecurity protocols.

ISAE 3000 | SOC 2 reports are vital for the travel industry in these turbulent times. Travel itself poses a risk for many people, as the spread of COVID-19 remains a concern in dozens of countries worldwide. The last thing consumers need is something else to worry about while traveling. Fortunately, ISAE 3000 | SOC 2 compliance can reassure customers, knowing that their data is secure.

Finally, it’s important to remember that most travel agencies must collaborate with federal agencies. Many of these agencies mandate private companies to implement security protocols to protect consumers from cyber attacks. If you run a travel agency that needs to comply with security standards set by the federal government, a clean ISAE 3000 | SOC 2 report ensures you are not violating legal protocols.

So whether you run a multinational travel agency or a small physical enterprise, you should consider becoming ISAE 3000 | SOC 2 certified. A clean ISAE 3000 | SOC 2 report reassures your customers and demonstrates that you prioritize data security. This can not only enhance your branding and increase your revenue but also help prevent a costly and disastrous data breach down the road.

What is ISO 9001

The  ISO/IEC 9001 standard is the international standard for quality management. It focuses on two key aspects: meeting customer requirements and enhancing customer satisfaction. The ISO 9001 standard specifies several specific aspects within it.

The attached figure visually represents the impact of the relevant parts of the ISO 9001 standard on an organization. Eight components are defined, forming the Quality Management System (QMS). The QMS is the basis for ISO 9001 implementation, ensuring that services meet customer requirements and satisfy customers.

The Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle is shown in the red highlighted parts, central to ISO 9001 implementation. It involves planning from customer requirements, measuring execution, and evaluating to improve the quality of overall operations.

Implementing an effective quality management system is a solid foundation for the sustainable development of your organization and can contribute to overall performance improvement. ISO 9001 employs a process approach and risk-based thinking.

ISO 9001:2015

The revised ISO 9001 standard, ISO 9001:2015, was published in September 2015. Three key adjustments include the introduction of the High-Level Structure (HLS), increased focus on risks, and the requirement for management commitment. The HLS modularizes various components, facilitating easier integration of diverse ISO standards. These changes not only provide a quality management tool but also a framework for business improvement.

ISO 9001 CERTIFICATION

To qualify for ISO 9001 certification, you must demonstrate continuous improvement of processes in your organization and emphasize communication with customers, partners, and suppliers. Your organization is aware of its role in society, collaborates with suppliers to improve processes, and, of course, serves its customers.

ISO 9001 Quality Check

Like all ISO standards, ISO 9001 undergoes a systematic review every five years to decide whether the standard remains valid or needs updating. This is necessary to ensure that the standard remains globally relevant and meets the needs of its users.

Additionally, the subcommittee responsible for the standard has undertaken a number of activities, including discussions with committee members and a survey of ISO 9001 users. The result was that no revision was necessary, and the latest version of ISO 9001 still provides as much value to those implementing the standard as when it was last updated in 2015.

A special task force within the committee will continue to evaluate and monitor any potential market or other changes that may affect the standard and propose a revision if and when necessary.