What is the main objective of stage 1 audit?

The primary aim of a stage 1 audit in the context of ISO/IEC 27001 is to evaluate if an organization's Information Security Management System (ISMS) is prepared for the forthcoming stage 2 audit. This involves assessing the information documented by the organization to confirm that all necessary processes, procedures, and controls are in place to comply with the requirements of the standard.

This involves identifying areas that may require further attention before the detailed evaluation during the stage 2 audit can take place. While it is important for internal audits and management reviews to be performed, the stage 1 audit itself covers a broader scope by also gauging overall compliance readiness and identifying potential nonconformities.

In addition, the other options, while relevant to ISO/IEC 27001, pertain more to subsequent steps in the audit process (like evaluating the effective implementation of the ISMS or conformity to standard requirements during the stage 2 audit) or are outside the specific intent of a stage 1 audit (such as financial compliance). The focus at stage 1 is primarily on readiness, which encompasses reviewing the documentation and understanding if the organization is prepared for a more comprehensive audit.