The truth is that in today’s hyperconnected world, maturity-based cybersecurity programs are no longer adequate for combatting cyberrisks. A more strategic, risk-based approach is imperative for effective and efficient risk management (Exhibit 2).

Both Easterly and Zhora stress the importance of communicating cyber risks in a language that resonates with business decision-makers. This enables informed decision-making when allocating resources to cybersecurity initiatives. By aligning cybersecurity efforts with business goals, organizations can view cybersecurity not merely as a constraint, b

Executives are often forced to make sense of a long list of sometimes conflicting metrics. By linking KRIs and KPIs, the cybersecurity team gives executives the ability to engage in meaningful problem-solving discussions on which risks are within tolerances, which are not, and why (see the sidebar, “Linking a KRI to a KPI”).