Certified Information Systems Auditor Practice Exam

The first activity in developing a risk management program is conducting an inventory of assets. This initial step is crucial because identifying all assets, including hardware, software, data, and people, provides a foundation for understanding what needs protection. Without a comprehensive inventory, it would be challenging to assess the risks associated with each asset or the potential impacts on the organization if these assets were compromised.

By starting with an inventory, organizations can ensure that their risk management efforts are aligned with their actual resources and vulnerabilities. It also aids in prioritizing assets based on their importance to the organization, enabling a more targeted approach in subsequent activities, such as risk assessment and policy development. This foundational knowledge is essential for effectively managing risks and ensuring robust security measures are put in place.