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CISM · Question #42

When developing a business case to justify an information security investment, which of the following would BEST enable an informed decision by senior management?

The correct answer is D. The results of a risk assessment. To enable senior management to make informed decisions about information security investments, a business case should be supported by the quantified results of a risk assessment.

Submitted by yasin.bd· Apr 18, 2026Information Security Risk Management

Question

When developing a business case to justify an information security investment, which of the following would BEST enable an informed decision by senior management?

Options

  • AThe information security strategy
  • BSecurity investment trends in the industry
  • CLosses due to security incidents
  • DThe results of a risk assessment

How the community answered

(62 responses)
  • A
    5% (3)
  • B
    3% (2)
  • C
    10% (6)
  • D
    82% (51)

Why each option

To enable senior management to make informed decisions about information security investments, a business case should be supported by the quantified results of a risk assessment.

AThe information security strategy

An information security strategy outlines overarching goals but lacks the specific, quantifiable risk data needed to justify a particular investment.

BSecurity investment trends in the industry

Security investment trends in the industry offer general context but do not reflect the organization's unique risk posture or provide justification for its specific investment needs.

CLosses due to security incidents

While past losses due to security incidents are relevant, they are reactive and provide only historical data, whereas a comprehensive risk assessment offers a proactive view of all potential future risks and impacts.

DThe results of a risk assessmentCorrect

The results of a risk assessment provide an objective and data-driven view of potential threats, vulnerabilities, likelihood, and impact, enabling senior management to understand the tangible risks and benefits associated with security investments. This includes quantifying potential losses and comparing them against the cost of mitigation.

Concept tested: Risk assessment for investment justification

Source: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/security/cybersecurity-architecture/risk-management-in-microsoft-cybersecurity

Topics

#Business Case Justification#Security Investment#Risk Assessment#Senior Management Decision

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