BS 8577 is a British Standard that sets out a framework for best practices in operational management for financial advice and planning firms. It specifies processes for implementing an effective operational management system to increase client confidence through high quality and consistent service. Certification in BS 8577 provides benefits such as recognition from consumer groups, demonstrating robust policies and procedures, and assurances for clients around quality, professionalism, and commitment to continual improvement. Standards International is a certification body that provides training, assessment, and certification services to help firms adhere to BS 8577 standards and requirements.

1. Increase the efficiency of
your operational processes
with BS 8577
BS 8577:2012 Framework for the provision
of financial advice and planning services is
the only British Standard for financial advice
and planning firms
Led by Standards International and the British Standards Institute (BSI), this
long-awaited professional benchmark sets out a framework for the operational
management of a regulatory firm.
Certification is simpler BS 8577 specifies established best practice and processes for embedding an
than you think – the team effective operational management system, both standalone and to support
at Standards International adherence to ISO 22222 Personal financial planning – requirements for
can take you through personal financial planners.
the whole process
BS 8577 is aimed at increasing client confidence by providing a consistently
high standard of service. The standard covers the entire operational
framework of the company, including the business-critical elements of
business continuity, information security, client confidentiality, continual
improvement, recruitment and training and development, all of which help
financial planning professionals to operate in a true best practice manner.
Benefits to your firm
• Recognition from the consumer group Which?
• Recognition that your management policies and procedures are robust
and embedded throughout the company and promote and demonstrate
“This is a real hands on a client-centred culture
assessment; not a test • Independent and impartial assessments that identify opportunities to
of technical knowledge, improve the efficiency, effectiveness and professionalism of the organisation
but an assessment of what • The ability to demonstrate conformity through independent third party
is actually being delivered certification, providing assurance that your organisation operates a
to the people that count robust operational management ‘best practice’ framework
the most: the clients.” • A stronger position in respect of the requirements of regulatory bodies,
as the Financial Services Authority (FSA) may take into account
Keith Churchouse, compliance with the standard during its themed visits
Chapters Financial • Improved sales and marketing opportunities
• Improved communication
Benefits to your client
• Assurance of a client-centred culture
• Assurance of quality of service
• A more professional and consistent service
• Value added to the services provided by the financial planner and
the organisation
Standards International Limited • Evidence of commitment to continual improvement and compliance
5 The Granary
Fairclough Hall Farm through independent third party certification
Weston • Enhancement of business relationships, building trust and securing
Hertfordshire repeat business
SG4 7DP
• Reassurance that regulatory requirements are being adhered to and
T: 01462 790894 monitored on an ongoing basis
W: www.standardsinternational.co.uk • Access to evidence of qualifications, experience and competency
L: http://uk.linkedin.com/in/standardsexpert
T: http://twitter.com/SIISO22222
YouTube: TheStandardsExpert

2. The BS 8577 certification process
Once we have understood your requirements and objectives we will create
a personalised certification scheme proposal to suit the needs of your
organisation, which will include:
• Training, gap analysis and document review (optional)
• Assessment conducted by our independent assessors
• Process improvement report confirming adherence to the framework
BS 8577 certification – the cost
Each organisation is unique; therefore so is each certification scheme
programme. Prices start from:
• Off-site training: £197
• On-site training: £1,327.50
• Initial certification: £1,575.50
• Annual quality review audit: £1,575.50
By understanding, implementing and adhering to BS 8577, your firm will be
able to demonstrate a continued and high-level commitment to the British
and international best practice standard of excellence.
About Standards International
Standards International is the leading and only dedicated financial
services certification body in the UK. We specialise in the promotion,
“It can only have a positive training, pre-assessment, assessment and certification for BS 8577 and
impact on everyone within ISO 22222:2005 Personal financial planning – requirements for
our firm.” personal financial planners. As the provider of choice for BS 8577 and
ISO 22222 certification, we are leading the way in pioneering and establishing
James Saulsbury national and international best practice standards in financial services.
Affinity Independent
We are passionate about raising the quality and level of professionalism
within financial services. We aim to support financial planners and their firms
in delivering continuous service excellence to their clients and, as a result,
develop a sustainable business and future for all.
Standards International provides a unique offering. We have unrivalled
knowledge of and expertise in best practice standards of operation, gained
from years of experience in helping financial planners and firms to operate
more efficiently.
Standards International Limited Standards International has been accredited to ISO/IEC 17024 by the United
5 The Granary Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) since 2008.
Fairclough Hall Farm
Weston
To join the best firms in the business, email us at
Hertfordshire
SG4 7DP enquiries@standardsinternational.co.uk or call us on 01462 790894.
T: 01462 790894 We look forward to having the opportunity to work with you!
W: www.standardsinternational.co.uk
L: http://uk.linkedin.com/in/standardsexpert
T: http://twitter.com/SIISO22222
YouTube: TheStandardsExpert