Processes for Responsible AI System Design and Development
Organisations must document AI system design and development aligned with objectives, goals, and specified criteria.
Plain language
This control means you need to write down how you're designing and building your AI systems. It matters because if something goes wrong, like your AI recommending the wrong product or giving poor advice, you need to know the steps you took and why, so you can fix it quickly.
Framework
ISO/IEC 42001:2023
Control effect
Preventative
Classifications
N/A
Official last update
01 Dec 2023
Control Stack last updated
19 May 2026
Maturity levels
N/A
Official control statement
The organisation shall define and document the specific processes for the responsible design and development of the AI system.
Why it matters
If the AI system design is not documented, when it makes a mistake, it becomes very hard to fix quickly, leading to user and business dissatisfaction.
Operational notes
Keep the design documentation up-to-date as changes happen to the AI system, not just when a problem arises; this ensures no detail is overlooked.
Implementation tips
- The AI lead should create a simple documentation process for every AI project. This could be a shared document where every design decision and its reason is logged, just like keeping a diary.
- The data steward must ensure all data sources are recorded at the start of each AI project. A basic table listing where each data piece comes from and its purpose will do the trick.
- Product owners should regularly review the AI design against business goals. A quarterly meeting to compare how the AI is performing with what you expected from it is a good start.
- Aska one-page summary of how the AI tool was designed and built
- The head of risk should schedule annual reviews of AI design documentation to catch outdated practices. A checklist in line with ISO 42001 and regular audits will help keep things up-to-date.
Audit / evidence tips
- AskRequest the AI design documentation from a recent project. GoodThe document lists objectives, technical details, and decision reasons clearly.
- AskAsk for the data source log for an AI system. GoodThe log lists all data sources, usage, and the date they were collected.
- AskRequest records of design reviews against business goals. GoodThe records show consistent alignment checks with business objectives.
- AskAsk for supplier-provided AI system documentation. GoodSupplier documentation provides a clear summary of design and purpose.
- AskRequest the latest AI design review audit report. GoodThe report highlights updates needed and aligns with the standard.
Cross-framework mappings
How Annex A 6.1.3 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
No cross-framework mappings recorded yet.
Want to implement this AI control?
Mindset Cyber runs PECB-accredited ISO/IEC 42001 training that maps directly to the AI controls in this library.