This International Standard focuses on the critical aspects needed for successful design and implementation of an Information Security Management System (ISMS) in accordance with ISO/IEC 27001:2005. It describes the process of ISMS specification and design from inception to the production of implementation plans. It describes the process of obtaining management approval to implement an ISMS, defines a project to implement an ISMS (referred to in this International Standard as the ISMS project), and provides guidance on how to plan the ISMS project, resulting in a final ISMS project implementation plan. This International Standard is intended to be used by organizations implementing an ISMS. It is applicable to all types of organization (e.g. commercial enterprises, government agencies, non-profit organizations) of all sizes. Each organization's complexity and risks are unique, and its specific requirements will drive the ISMS implementation. Smaller organizations will find that the activities noted in this International Standard are applicable to them and can be simplified. Large-scale or complex organizations might find that a layered organization or management system is needed to manage the activities in this International Standard effectively. However, in both cases, the relevant activities can be planned by applying this International Standard. This International Standard gives recommendations and explanations; it does not specify any requirements. This International Standard is intended to be used in conjunction with ISO/IEC 27001:2005 and ISO/IEC 27002:2005, but is not intended to modify and/or reduce the requirements specified in ISO/IEC 27001:2005 or the recommendations provided in ISO/IEC 27002:2005. Claiming conformity to this International Standard is not appropriate.