ROI Analysis of Security Technology: Why Bother?

by John Berry

While many organizations are not in the habit of making the effort to fully assess the economic value of security-related information technology before purchase, those serious about optimizing total security strategy will recognize the importance of conducting a value assessment exercise. The act of exploring all the costs and benefits of a security-related technology provides greater visibility into how it might influence security strategy; new technology can introduce process and organizational change as well as affect governance and decision rights. This Executive Report by John Berry walks readers through a detailed value analysis of fraud detection technology to demonstrate how managers can make more effective security management decisions in possession of detailed cost/benefit information. Security strategy is as important as corporate strategy. Getting it right is critical.