High Table ISO 27001 Toolkit vs ISMS.Online
This comparison focuses on the High Table ISO 27001 Toolkit and ISMS.online, evaluating their suitability for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based on total cost of ownership, implementation timeline, and core features.
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
- High Table: This toolkit is structured as a one-time purchase. This model is highly beneficial for SMEs with limited, fixed budgets. The TCO is transparent and predictable, primarily consisting of the initial purchase price, as it uses common software like Microsoft Office documents. There are no recurring subscription fees, which reduces long-term costs.
- ISMS.online: This is a SaaS (Software as a Service) platform, operating on a subscription model. The TCO is a blend of initial setup costs and ongoing annual fees. While it eliminates the need for large upfront capital, the cumulative cost over several years can be higher than a one-time purchase. The platform’s cost is based on factors like company size, number of users, and features, which can make long-term budgeting more complex.
Timeline for Implementation
- High Table: Implementation time is a key advantage. The toolkit is a set of pre-written, downloadable documents and templates. This allows for rapid deployment, as you can start customizing the materials immediately. Users have reported achieving an initial ISMS in under six months. The timeline is highly dependent on your internal resources and commitment, as it is a “do-it-yourself” approach.
- ISMS.online: The platform aims to accelerate the process by providing an “81% headstart” with pre-configured templates and automated workflows. The timeline is generally fast due to the built-in guidance and automation. Many companies report achieving certification in around six months to twelve months.
Suitability for SMEs (Suitability Matrix)
| Feature | High Table | ISMS.online |
| Cost Model | One-time purchase | Subscription-based |
| Current Price | £490.00 (from a reduced £990.00) | Expensive. Variable pricing on application. |
| Ease of Use | Beginner-friendly, uses familiar software (MS Office) | Intuitive, guided platform with automation |
| Scalability | Manual updates and management; less scalable for growth | Highly scalable; easy to add users and controls |
| Support | Free one-on-one consultation, weekly group Q&A sessions, free ISO 27001 training videos, virtual coaching, step-by-step guidance, and online support | Virtual coaching, step-by-step guidance, and online support |
| TCO | Low and predictable | Higher over time, but no large upfront cost |
| Resources | Requires internal resource to manage documents | Requires internal resource to manage the platform |
Conclusion
- High Table is an excellent choice for budget-conscious SMEs that have an internal team member to manage the certification process. The one-time fee and familiar document format (MS Office) provide a cost-effective, hands-on solution.
- ISMS.online is more suitable for SMEs that prioritise ease of use, automation, and a guided experience. They still require an internal team member to manage the certification process. The subscription model and built-in features reduce the manual workload, making it a good option for businesses with limited internal security expertise and a healthy budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It’s a collection of documents, templates, and guides that help you create an Information Security Management System (ISMS) to meet ISO 27001 requirements.
Yes, both are designed to help SMEs, but they use different methods. High Table is a hands-on document pack, while ISMS.online is a guided software platform.
No, a toolkit provides the framework, but your organization must implement the policies and controls effectively and pass an external audit.
High Table is a static document toolkit, whereas ISMS.online is a dynamic, cloud-based software platform.
High Table has a lower cost. ISMS.online has recurring subscription fees, which can lead to a higher total cost over several years.
Yes, both offer some form of support. High Table provides free one-on-one sessions and weekly Q&A sessions, while ISMS.online provides virtual coaching and a support platform.
Both can help you achieve certification in approximately six months, but the time depends on your company’s size and dedication.
High Table offers a specific “Consultant Edition” for this purpose, but you must check the licensing terms of the “Business Edition.”
Yes, it uses automation to streamline tasks, manage documentation, and collect evidence for audits.
Both toolkits are designed to be user-friendly. High Table’s guides explain concepts clearly, and ISMS.online’s virtual coach helps you step-by-step.
Using a toolkit can reduce or eliminate the need for a full-time consultant, but a consultant can provide extra help if needed.
High Table offers free updates to meet new standard changes. ISMS.online, as a subscription service, updates its platform automatically.
If you plan to continuously improve and manage your ISMS over time, ISMS.online’s platform and automation may be more efficient.
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is the total cost of an asset over its life, including initial purchase, implementation, and ongoing maintenance.
