ISO/IEC 42001:2023 is the world's first international management system standard for artificial intelligence, published in December 2023. It provides a structured framework for organizations to establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve an AI Management System (AIMS).
The standard follows the common ISO management system structure (Annex SL) and covers: organizational context and stakeholder requirements, leadership commitment and AI policy, planning for AI risks and opportunities, resource management including AI competence, operational planning and control of AI systems, performance evaluation and monitoring, and continual improvement of AI management.
Key annexes provide guidance on: AI risk management processes, controls for AI system development and deployment, impact assessment procedures, and guidance for various AI system types and use cases.
Organizations pursuing ISO 42001 certification demonstrate their commitment to responsible AI through externally audited compliance. The certification is particularly valuable for AI vendors, enterprises deploying AI at scale, and organizations in regulated industries.
ISO 42001 complements other frameworks including the NIST AI RMF, EU AI Act requirements, and ISO 27001 (information security), creating a comprehensive governance ecosystem.
