What It Is

Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) of 2014 is a U.S. federal law establishing a mandatory, risk-based framework for protecting federal information and systems. It modernizes the 2002 act, emphasizing NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF)—a 7-step process: Prepare, Categorize, Select, Implement, Assess, Authorize, Monitor—for civilian executive branch agencies.

Key Components

• NIST SP 800-53 controls (20 families) tailored by FIPS 199 impact levels (Low/Moderate/High).
• Continuous monitoring via SP 800-137 and DHS CDM program.
• Agency-wide security programs with SSPs, POA&Ms, ATOs.
• Oversight metrics for CIOs, IGs, SAOPs aligned to NIST CSF functions. No formal certification; compliance via annual IG evaluations and OMB reporting.

Why Organizations Use It

Mandated for federal agencies/contractors handling federal data; noncompliance risks funding loss, debarment. Provides risk reduction, resilience, market access (e.g., FedRAMP). Builds trust, efficiency through automation/evidence-based assurance.

Implementation Overview

Phased RMF lifecycle with governance, inventory, controls, assessments. Applies to agencies, contractors (via NIST 800-171 for CUI); scales by size. Involves audits, continuous reporting; 12-24 months typical for maturity.

What It Is

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is the international accreditation standard specifying general requirements for the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of testing and calibration laboratories. It adopts a risk-based, performance-oriented approach, integrating management and technical controls to ensure technically valid results.

Key Components

• Eight core clauses: general requirements (impartiality, confidentiality), structural, resource (personnel, facilities, equipment, traceability), process (methods, sampling, uncertainty, reporting), and management system (Option A/B).
• Emphasizes metrological traceability, measurement uncertainty, method validation, and proficiency testing.
• Built on ILAC mutual recognition; leads to scope-specific accreditation, not certification.

Why Organizations Use It

• Enables global acceptance of results, meeting regulatory and supply-chain demands.
• Mitigates risks of invalid data, enhances efficiency, builds stakeholder trust.
• Provides competitive edge via demonstrated competence and market access.

Implementation Overview

• Phased PDCA: gap analysis, documentation, training, validation, internal audits, external assessment.
• Suited for labs across industries and sizes worldwide; requires accreditation body audits and ongoing surveillance.