The establishment of organizational goals is a pivotal step in the implementation of the NIST RMF. These goals are not mere statements of intent; they are the guiding force that directs the selection and application of security controls, shapes the risk management processes, and defines the overall cybersecurity posture of an organization. Ideally, these goals should be intertwined with the organization’s broader mission and operational needs, while also addressing specific cybersecurity risks. They act as the bridge that connects the technical aspects of RMF with the strategic objectives of the organization.

Assessing organizational context for goal setting

The process of setting goals begins with a comprehensive assessment of the organization’s current cybersecurity state. This initial step involves identifying existing security measures, pinpointing critical assets and data, and recognizing potential vulnerabilities that might impact...