When proposing a new cybersecurity control or an upgrade to your organization, it's important to build a strong case to explain why this investment is necessary. Here's how to structure your justification to your line manager or decision-makers:
Identify the Risk: Clearly explain the specific risk the control will mitigate. How does this risk threaten the organization's operations or business goals?
Consequences of Inaction: Describe what could happen if this risk is not addressed. Include the likelihood of such events and their potential impact on the organization.
Implementation Costs: Detail the initial costs involved in implementing the control, including any software, hardware, or services required.
Ongoing Expenses: Consider any recurring costs, such as subscription fees or maintenance expenses.
Cost of Alternatives: Compare the costs and effectiveness of other potential solutions to address the same risk.
People's Time: Account for the time employees will spend implementing, maintaining, or training on the new control.
Alignment with Security Plan: Show how the control fits within the organization's overall cybersecurity strategy or framework.
Industry Practices: Mention how similar organizations or industry standards address this risk, highlighting the importance of the control.
Current Threat Landscape: Discuss any emerging threats that make this control particularly relevant now, emphasizing the urgency of implementation.
Compliance: Explain how the control assists in complying with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR in the UK). Highlight the legal and financial repercussions of non-compliance.
Regulatory Benefits: Beyond avoiding penalties, discuss how compliance can enhance the organization's reputation and customer trust.
Direct Benefits: Describe the immediate advantages of implementing the control, such as preventing potential attacks.
Indirect Benefits: Consider broader benefits, such as improved competitive position, customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, or enhanced trust and confidence among stakeholders.
By addressing these points, you can present a comprehensive justification for the cybersecurity control, showing not only its necessity for risk mitigation but also its alignment with business objectives, regulatory requirements, and potential benefits for the organization. This approach can help persuade management of the control's value and secure the necessary approval and resources for implementation.