What is an information security governance framework? And how do companies benefit from having this framework? Well, this post will discuss that.
What Is Information Security Governance Framework?
Well, it’s a standard set out by the board members. This may include directors or the organization’s partners.
But what do you think does this framework do? Well, this outlines the security goals of the company. While at the same time, establishes how they will operate.
Additionally, these board members are liable for the security governance. Thus, they should view it as a non-negotiable business need. And should also come from the top down.
The Key Benefit
Having an ISG Framework in place ensures goals are in place. And note, you can measure it against current performance.
Besides, it provides shareholders with oversight. And reassures them that mitigation of risk is adequate.
Furthermore, ISG should not only align the framework. Especially against the company’s strategic goals.
But, also ensures it complies with local and international regulatory laws.
The Requirements
ISG Framework and its function model must meet the following terms:
- The organization must construct a framework consistent with other corporate risk governance framework. What do you think is the reason? Well, this helps executives to make effective decisions.
- It needs to be capable to handle unique qualities of information security risk. Especially those that are different from other risk categories. Moreover, it must be capable to govern risks in fierce conditions.
- ISG functional model must include existing information security management. It should also be able to control mechanisms and have an effective interface.
Constructing The Framework
How will you construct the framework?
Well, there are many critical success factors that companies need to adopt. Why are these critical success factors needed?
The answer is these help them to put in place effective governance of Information Security. Additionally, Task Force and Entrust confirmed the importance of adopting an ISG framework.
Besides, adopting an ISG framework is important in helping organizations. Especially for the following:
- Combining it into their CG practices.
- Securing information in the face of growing cybersecurity risks.
- Improving the efficiency of organizational processes.
- Complying regulations
- Cultivating an acceptable information security culture.
Moreover, note also that developing the framework consists of 3 stages.
The 3 Stages
Stage 1: Forming The Guidance
This stage is all about developing the foundation. Why is this important? It’s important because this foundation guides the implementation of ISG.
Stage 2: Identifying The Critical Success Factors
This stage is the basis of the solution framework. This includes analyzing the academic and practice-oriented literature involved with ISG implementation.
Additionally, it’s mapped to the guiding principles. Thus, this ensures that identified CSFs are comprehensive. Especially in terms of including the critical practices of all organizational levels.
Stage 3: Mapping The CSFs To The Vital Areas Of ISG
The proper ISG implementation must provide the following results:
- Strategic alignment
- Value delivery
- Performance measurement
- Risk management, and
- Resources management
Conclusion
Information security governance is critical for any business. But, it also helps prepare for times of disaster.
Also, your organization must consider it from the highest levels of organizations. This includes the board of directors, executives as well as management.
Additionally, effective information security needs their active involvement. Also, senior management must oversee the project management.
Thus, ensuring that the strategy set out by the governance structure is worked towards.
