Efficiency and productivity are discussed in many contexts. In information security management, it also makes sense to ensure processes are working effectively. But how do you measure whether your information security is effective and whether it is developing in the right direction?

Information security standards have at least two characteristics: 1) they can cure most sleep problems and 2) some describe a relatively perfect world where those responsible for information security have plenty of time and where there are enough resources to analyse needs and document decisions. Even though I may have started this post a little sarcastic, I'm actually a big supporter of standards and "best practice"; I see no reason to reinvent good stuff. I cannot do anything about the standards being boring, but I write this post to suggest some responsible shortcuts to a good start on risk assessments and as a pragmatic approach to ISO 27001 compliance (should you want that).