Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now a technology that is applied in our daily lives and is no longer exclusive to large technology companies. This can be seen in the fact that more and more SMEs are incorporating recommendation algorithms, intelligent automation, and even generative assistants to optimise their processes. However, these opportunities also bring new risks: bias, lack of transparency, automated decisions that impact people... How can we manage these risks without complicating our lives?
This is where ISO/IEC 42001 comes into play, the first international standard dedicated exclusively to AI management systems. This standard is designed to be scalable and applicable to any type of organisation, including small and medium-sized enterprises.
What exactly is ISO 42001?
This is an international standard published in 2023 that establishes the requirements for implementing an Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS). It is the equivalent in AI to what ISO 9001 is for quality or ISO 27001 for information security.
ISO 42001 proposes creating a clear organisational structure for AI that allows each organisation to manage the ethical, technical and social risks associated with its use.
One of its main points is to ensure the traceability, explainability, and security of AI systems through management. Without forgetting compliance with current legislation (European AI Act or GDPR) — and promoting continuous improvement.
Why is this relevant for an SME?
Many SMEs believe that these standards are beyond their reach. However, ISO 42001 has several features that make it particularly useful for small and medium-sized organisations, as you can start with the essentials and progress as your use of AI grows, and it helps to focus efforts on the most critical systems by analysing the potential risk of each system.
In addition, it is compatible with other ISO standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 27001.
Compliance with ISO/IEC 42001 is becoming a necessity, so it may be important to start taking a few simple steps, such as drafting a basic AI policy that defines principles and limitations, a catalogue of AI-based systems and/or automations, etc.
At I2SC, we can accompany you every step of the way so that, regardless of the size of your company, you can move towards responsible AI management.
ISO 42001 is not a bureaucratic burden, but rather a compass for using AI judiciously, aligned with your company's values and objectives.
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