ISO 27036 TPRM Toolkit

Build a robust, compliant third‑party risk management program using our comprehensive, Notion‑based ISO 27036 TPRM Toolkit —based on the internationally recognized ISO 27036 standard.

Our toolkit transforms the formal language of the standard into actionable, project‑management–friendly steps.

Our toolkit is organized into three comprehensive phases:

• Phase 1: Lay the Foundation
  • Establish your framework, define governance with a RACI matrix, create a Vendor Criticality Matrix, align with a control framework, set up a vendor inventory, and codify your processes into formal policies.
• Phase 2: Execute Like a Pro
  • Conduct thorough risk assessments, gather evidence via self‑assessment questionnaires, communicate risks clearly, maintain a dynamic risk register, and ensure secure offboarding of vendors.
• Phase 3: Optimize Relentlessly
  • Track key metrics, leverage automation and risk intelligence tools, and continuously refine your policies and procedures to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Our toolkit also includes a bonus ISO 27036 Checklist to help you verify that your TPRM program aligns with the best practices outlined in ISO 27036 Parts 1 and 2.

What is ISO 27036 and Why is it Important?

ISO/IEC 27036 is an international standard for managing supplier relationships and the associated information security risks. It outlines best practices and requirements for assessing, selecting, monitoring, and terminating vendor relationships. By following ISO 27036, organizations ensure that both acquirers and suppliers are aligned on security responsibilities and that critical risks are managed throughout the vendor lifecycle.

ISO 27036 is broken into three distinct documents, each serving a specific purpose:

ISO/IEC 27036‑1: Overview and Concepts

This part introduces the key principles and terminology for supplier risk management. It explains why managing third‑party risk is critical and outlines the roles of both acquirers and suppliers. Think of it as the “why” and “what” behind TPRM.

ISO/IEC 27036‑2: Requirements

The normative core of the standard, this section provides detailed, actionable requirements for establishing, operating, and reviewing a TPRM program. It covers everything from planning and selecting vendors to monitoring and terminating relationships. Organizations can align their internal TPRM processes directly with these requirements to ensure comprehensive risk management.

ISO/IEC 27036‑3: Guidelines for ICT Supply Chain Security

This part offers additional guidance for complex, multi‑tier supply chains where vendors themselves depend on sub‑suppliers or provide hardware/software components. It delves into the technical details of securing the extended supply chain. For many organizations focused on traditional vendor relationships, ISO 27036‑2 is the primary reference, while 27036‑3 is more specialized for environments with intricate ICT dependencies.

Why Choose the ISO 27036 TPRM Toolkit by SaltyCloud?

• Actionable Guidance: We break down the complex language of ISO 27036 into clear, practical steps tailored for acquirers.
• Comprehensive Coverage: From initial vendor classification to continuous monitoring and optimization, our toolkit covers the entire TPRM lifecycle.
• Centralized and Collaborative: Hosted on Notion, the toolkit provides a centralized repository for templates, checklists, and guides, streamlining collaboration across teams.
• Industry Best Practices: Leverage internationally recognized standards to build a resilient, compliant TPRM program that supports strategic decision‑making.

ISO 27036 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is ISO 27036 intended for?

ISO 27036 is designed for organizations of all sizes and across all industries that manage supplier relationships. While it applies to both acquirers and suppliers, it is particularly valuable for information security and risk management teams. These teams are responsible for evaluating, monitoring, and mitigating the risks associated with third‑party engagements, ensuring that every vendor relationship is managed in line with a comprehensive, lifecycle‑based framework.

Can I get ISO 27036 as a free PDF?

No, ISO 27036 is a copyrighted standard. Official copies must be purchased from ISO or authorized distributors.

Why build your TPRM program off of ISO 27036?

Building your TPRM program on ISO 27036 ensures that you follow internationally recognized best practices. This structured approach helps you systematically manage vendor risks, align responsibilities between acquirers and suppliers, and meet regulatory requirements—all while driving continuous improvement in your security posture.