What should be the PRIMARY objective of an information classification scheme?

While classification can inform data retention, defining retention requirements is a secondary outcome and not the primary objective of classification itself.

An asset inventory lists assets, but classification specifically focuses on the *information* within those assets to determine its protection needs, not just inventorying.

Meeting legislative and regulatory requirements is a goal that classification helps achieve, but the direct *mechanism* is enabling proportionate control implementation.

The primary objective of an information classification scheme is to implement controls proportionate to risk by categorizing information based on its sensitivity, value, and criticality. This classification allows organizations to apply appropriate security measures, such as access controls, encryption, and handling procedures, ensuring that the most valuable and sensitive data receives the highest level of protection without over-securing less critical information.