01
Start with market and contractual demand
List the assurance requested by European, UK, and US customers, the contracts waiting on evidence, and the data-processing roles in scope. This reveals whether ISO 27001, SOC 2, or a coordinated sequence creates the strongest commercial return.
02
Keep GDPR obligations visible but distinct
An ISMS and SOC 2 controls can support technical and organisational measures, supplier governance, incidents, access, resilience, and accountability. They do not replace the legal analysis, documentation, rights processes, and regulatory duties required by data-protection law.
03
Create one control operating model
Use one risk register, ownership model, control library, supplier process, incident workflow, evidence calendar, and leadership review while maintaining separate assessment scopes and conclusions.
- Map controls to ISO 27001, Trust Services Criteria, customer requirements, and GDPR-linked risks
- Define EU and international legal entities, systems, data, suppliers, and locations
- Test evidence against actual operating periods and customer claims
- Avoid statements that imply certification or SOC reporting equals legal compliance
Frequently asked questions
Does ISO 27001 certification prove GDPR compliance?
No. It can provide strong evidence of governed information-security risk and controls, but GDPR contains separate legal obligations that must be addressed directly.
Do European SaaS companies need SOC 2?
There is no universal requirement. It becomes commercially important when customers, investors, or procurement teams request a SOC 2 report, especially in the US market.
Can Vecta prepare one programme for both?
Yes. Vecta can design a shared control and evidence architecture while preserving the distinct requirements and independent assessment routes.
Primary sources