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Why Do You Need a Cyber Strategy?

The necessity of a cyber strategy can be distilled into two primary reasons:

1. Communication to Workforce: A cyber strategy is essential for conveying a set of principles and decisions to your workforce. This ensures that everyone within the organisation comprehends the direction and priorities related to cybersecurity.
   
   
2. Communication to External Parties: It also conveys decisions and principles to external stakeholders, such as the market and regulators. This transparency is essential for fostering trust and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Defining Cyber Strategy

A cyber strategy can be defined as a collection of executive decisions and principles that inform operational-level decisions. It is not merely a document but a guiding framework that shapes how an organisation approaches cybersecurity.

Case Study: Victorian Government Cyber Strategy

To illustrate the importance of a well-defined cyber strategy, consider the example of the Victorian government. In developing their cyber strategy, the government faced critical decisions regarding its role in cybersecurity. They concluded that:

• The Victorian government should protect its citizens.
• It should also promote cyber businesses within Victoria.

These decisions led to the establishment of three key missions in the Victorian government’s cyber strategy. The strategy's success lay in its ability to communicate a clear commitment to cybersecurity, which empowered decision-makers at all levels. When opportunities arose, individuals could confidently align their decisions with the strategy, knowing the highest levels of government had endorsed it.

Characteristics of a Good Cyber Strategy

A good cyber strategy should be specific and tailored to the organisation. Here are some characteristics that define an effective strategy:

1. Specificity: Avoid vague statements that could apply to any organisation. A strong strategy should reflect your organisation’s unique challenges and opportunities.
   
   
2. Decision-Making Framework: It should provide guidance for day-to-day decisions, helping employees understand how to align their actions with the organisation's goals.
   
   
3. Alignment with Organisational Goals: The strategy must be consistent with the organization's mission, risk appetite, and stakeholder expectations.

Revisiting and Adapting Your Strategy

As organisations evolve, their strategies may need to be revisited. If decisions that appear to diverge from the established strategy are made, it is essential to reassess the strategy itself. A well-constructed strategy should allow for tracking decisions back to its guiding principles, ensuring that all actions align with the organisation's objectives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a cyber strategy is not merely a regulatory requirement but an essential component of organisational success. It acts as a communication tool, a decision-making framework, and a means to align actions with overarching goals. By developing a meaningful and specific cyber strategy, organisations can empower their workforce and ensure they are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape.