An approval process is a formal workflow in which designated individuals review and approve a document, change, or measure before it takes effect. The process ensures that decisions are made by the appropriate people.
In an ISMS, approval processes cover policies, procedures, risk treatment plans, and changes to production systems. ISO 27001 requires top management to approve the information security policy (clause 5.2) and that changes be carried out in a controlled manner (A.8.32). A documented approval process with traceable decisions is a key building block of audit readiness.