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May 10, 2018 - by Synoptek
We’ve previously discussed the four tribes of cybersecurity — but what about cybersecurity as an opportunity, a business differentiator, and a means to gain market advantage?
How can more progressive cybersecurity approaches offer greater benefits and why is having a higher level of cybersecurity so important? Let’s briefly review the tribes to get a better idea of the security spectrum:
When IT executives understand cybersecurity’s importance and implement more safeguards into their organizations, their company and client data is likely more secure. In addition, investing in greater security measures also better equips other employees to address threats and mitigate risks. But is there a category beyond security as an enabler?
Many business executives “still see cybersecurity as a significant financial burden.” The upside? By continually investing in cybersecurity and going beyond industry security norms, savvy IT decision-makers can reduce costly risks such as security breaches and gain market advantage. How so? Those who prioritize customer privacy, such as securing sensitive information, and have the ability to address threats before they turn into major problems can make positive impacts on customers. Communicating these efforts to customers can make an even bigger difference. According to a BankInfoSecurity article, Lance Hayden, managing director at the consultancy Berkeley Research Group, said business executives who leverage cybersecurity to their advantage will gain an edge “because they’re going to use cybersecurity as part of their portfolio of strategic assets.”
Viewing cybersecurity as a differentiator can require a different way of thinking. It’s a “strategic intangible,” falling under the same category as talent management, innovation, and company culture. While it might be difficult for some execs to wrap their heads around this perspective, it’s important to understand the other side: Those who are found lackadaisical with their cybersecurity measures often face consumer backlash and distrust — a differentiator often detrimental to the bottom line.
Executives who look past security as a necessity and go beyond meeting compliance can set themselves apart, an increasingly important advantage in a competitive landscape. So, how can business executives move up the cybersecurity maturity spectrum?
With many executives already embracing security as a business differentiator, those who belong to lower-level security tribes are struggling to play catchup — a difficult task for executives lacking the necessary in-house expertise or resources. For this reason, many IT executives are partnering with managed security services providers (MSSPs). The right MSSP can help IT execs reach higher levels of cybersecurity with ease and confidence. In addition, some are even using this partnership as a differentiator; they “can point to their MSSP as proof that they’re actively involved in security best practices with specialists.” Are you ready to stand out among the crowd?
Where are the gaps in your security approach? Synoptek experts offer the focus, depth, and security services you need to successfully change tribes and improve your company’s cybersecurity. Use security as a differentiator: For more information, view our managed IT security services online or call 888.796.6783.
Synoptek is an established firm that provides information systems consulting and IT management services. Synoptek and its predecessors have been providing these services for 23 years.
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