Risk Management

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) Registry.

• BLUF: The  Controlled Unclassified Information  (CUI) Registry is the government-wide online repository for federal-level guidance regarding CUI policy and practice. However, agency personnel and contractors should first consult their agency's CUI implementing policies and program management for guidance.

• Link: https://www.archives.gov/cui -- (via National Archives)

• Inside a CUI Registry:

  1. Categories, Markings and Controls:

     • Category list

     • CUI markings

     • Limited dissemination controls

     • Decontrol

     • Registry change log 

  2. Policy and Guidance:

     • Executive Order 13556

     • 32 CFR Part 2002 (Implementing Directive)

     • CUI Marking Handbook

     • CUI Notices

National Registry. (National Archives)

• BLUF: The Daily Journal of the United States Government.

• Link: https://www.federalregister.gov/ 

What is a Risk Register?

BLUF -- The possibility of something bad happening. 

• A central repository for identifying, tracking, and managing potential risks to a project, program, or organization. 

• Acts as a dynamic document, continuously updated as risks evolve.

• Essential for proactive risk management and informed decision-making.

Key Components (Columns) in a Risk Registry:

• Risk ID: Unique identifier for each risk.

• Risk Description: Clear explanation of the risk, its potential impact, and likelihood of occurrence.

• Risk Owner: Person or team responsible for managing the risk.

• Mitigation Actions: Steps planned to reduce the likelihood or impact of the risk.

• Contingency Plans: Actions to take if the risk materializes.

• Risk Status: Current state of the risk (e.g., open, closed, mitigated).

Risk Registry Tools.

There isn't a single "best" Risk Register tool, as the optimal choice depends on your specific needs and budget. However, here are some of the top contenders, along with their key features:

• 1. Free / Open-Source Tools:

     • SharePoint. -- Can integrate Power BI for visualizations and Power Apps for automation.

     • Excel or Az Excel Spreadsheet: Simple but effective for basic risk management.

     • SlideTeam.Net -- https://www.slideteam.net/ppt-templates/strategy-PowerPoint -- Leverage various business management templates, like Strategy, Roadmap, KPI Dashboard, SWOT Analysis, Business Plan, etc.

     • Risk Register Template -- Simple spreadsheet template for basic risk tracking. https://www.smartsheet.com/risk-register-templates 

     • Airtable: A versatile platform that can be customized to function as a risk register, with features like collaborative editing, reporting, and automation.

     • SpreadSheet.com -- https://www.spreadsheet.com/template/project-management-risk-log 

     • Riskfolio: A dedicated risk management tool with a user-friendly interface and built-in risk assessment templates.

     • OpenProject: A project management platform with risk management capabilities, including risk identification, tracking, and mitigation planning.

     • OpenProject risk register tool

     • Dedicated Risk Management Software: Offers advanced features like prioritization, analysis, reporting, and collaboration.

     • Project Management Software: Often includes risk management modules.

  2. Paid Options:

     • Riskonnect: A comprehensive risk management platform with advanced features like scenario modeling, Monte Carlo simulations, and heatmaps. -- Example: https://www.softwareadvice.co.uk/software/78624/active-risk-manager 

• Palantir Foundry: A powerful data analytics platform that can be used for risk identification, analysis, and mitigation.

• Lockpath: A cloud-based governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) platform with a risk register module.

EA Tools built-in with a Risk Registry.

• 1. ArchiMate: Supports risk modeling and management within its architecture modeling framework.

  2. BizzDesign: Offers a comprehensive risk management module for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks.

  3. Planview Enterprise One: Integrates risk management with other EA capabilities for holistic visibility.

  4. ABACUS: Includes a risk management module for identifying, assessing, and tracking risks.

  5. LeanIX: Provides a risk management feature for tracking and mitigating risks across the IT landscape.

  6. Mega Hopex: Focuses on IT risk management, providing a central repository for risk data and analysis.

  7. CORAS: A tool for risk analysis and modeling, specifically designed for security-critical systems.

  8. RiskNET: A comprehensive suite of risk management tools, including a risk registry, assessment modules, and reporting capabilities.

Considerations:

BLUF -- Choosing the right EA tool with a risk registry involves careful evaluation of your organization's specific needs, risk management maturity, and the tool's capabilities to ensure effective risk governance and decision-making.

• Customization: Some EA tools without built-in risk registries allow for customization or integration with external risk management tools.

• Integration: Ensure the risk registry tool integrates with other EA tools and processes for seamless data exchange and collaboration.

• Functionality: Consider the specific risk management features you need, such as risk identification, assessment, mitigation planning, reporting, and tracking.

• Industry Focus: Some tools cater to specific industries with tailored risk management features.

Azure Resources for Risk Registry:

BLUF: Azure itself doesn't offer a dedicated Risk Register tool. However, several Azure services can be used to build and manage Risk Management and Risk Register:

• Azure and Risk Management:

  1. Azure Compliance Manager: Assesses compliance against regulations and standards, providing a risk assessment feature.

  2. Azure Security Center: Monitors security posture and identifies potential risks.

  3. Azure Sentinel (SIEM): Cloud-native SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) that detects and investigates threats, aiding risk mitigation.

• Azure doesn't offer a Risk Registry tool, you can create one using:

1. Azure DevOps: Track risks as work items within projects.

2. Azure Boards: Create a custom risk register board for visualization and tracking.

3. Azure Excel: Store and manage risk information in spreadsheets within Azure.

4. Azure Logic Apps:  Create automated workflows for capturing and managing risks.

5. Azure SQL Database: Store and manage risk data in a secure and scalable relational database.

6. Azure Power BI: Analyze and visualize risk data to gain insights and make informed decisions. Az Power BI Risk Registry Tool Example: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/healthcare-and-life-sciences/control-pii-and-sensitive-data-risk-for-self-service-bi-using/ba-p/1018486 

~ Note: You can also use third-party risk register tools to integrate with Az, such as RiskReason or Resolver.

Best Approach for Managing Risk Registers on Azure: Depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like:

1. The complexity of your risk management process

2. Budget

3. Technical expertise

4. Integrations with other tools

By carefully evaluating your options, you can choose the right risk register tool (or combination of tools) to effectively manage risks in your Azure environment.