Embracing 'Cyber Kaizen' - Rethinking Cybersecurity for Business Success

1st October, 2024

Article by Paul C Dwyer, President of the ICTTF International Cyber Threat Task Force, created for Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet as part of the European Cybersecurity Month

In today’s digital age, businesses are encouraged to embrace innovation while securing themselves against risks. The term “cybersecurity” suggests the idea of being entirely risk-free, but this is misleading. Cyber, referring to anything digital or internet-related, inherently involves risks, and security, meaning “free from risk,” is unrealistic in this context. So, how can organisations operate digitally and remain risk-free?

The reality is, they can’t. The focus must shift to cyber risk management: the art of balancing innovation with proven risk management techniques. Business leaders need to move away from the unattainable goal of being fully “cybersecure” and instead focus on managing cyber risks. This isn’t about adding more security; it’s about empowering organisations to achieve their mission while effectively navigating risks.

This is where the concept of Kaizen comes in. Originating from Japanese business practices, Kaizen means “continuous improvement.” Instead of quick fixes, it focuses on making small, consistent changes. In cyber risk management, this approach is invaluable, as threats and technologies evolve rapidly.

I call this the “Cyber Kaizen” approach – a philosophy promoting ongoing improvement in managing risks, helping organisations remain resilient and adaptable.

Shifting from Security to Empowerment

Focusing solely on securing systems misses the bigger picture. The true goal is to help businesses thrive by managing the risks associated with technology. Understanding where an organisation stands and mapping a path toward resilience requires the Cyber Kaizen mindset.

In business, Cyber Kaizen means implementing a robust framework and evolving it continuously to address new threats. It involves regular assessments, learning from incidents, and building a culture where security is dynamic, not a fixed goal.

For cyber professionals, Cyber Kaizen is about self-reflection, adaptation, and growth. Early in my career, I gained top qualifications in Novell NetWare, a once-prominent technology now obsolete. Without adopting a Kaizen mindset—assessing strengths and building on them—those skills would have become irrelevant.

Continuous Improvement: The Path to Innovation

This mindset is vital in a world where both cyber threats and technology evolve at high speed. Knowledge, like security measures, can quickly become outdated. Cyber professionals must continually enhance their expertise, keeping up with new technologies and methodologies. Today’s skills can easily become tomorrow’s liabilities if left stagnant.

By adopting Cyber Kaizen, we ensure we are not only protecting businesses from current threats but also preparing for future challenges. Our role is to help organisations innovate and navigate risks with agility, not to stifle them with security concerns.

At the same time, Cyber Kaizen acknowledges that cyber resilience and business success are interconnected. Just as businesses must innovate to stay competitive, so must the cyber professionals guiding them. We must be partners in progress, not gatekeepers of outdated practices.

Empowering Leadership Through Cyber Risk Management

A cyber professional’s role isn’t just to secure systems but to empower leadership to pursue their vision confidently. By managing cyber risks, we create a pathway for organisations to seize opportunities brought by technological advancements.

Business leaders should not focus on the impossible goal of being 100% secure but should work with their cyber teams to develop a dynamic approach to risk management that supports innovation. Cyber Kaizen empowers businesses to grow, knowing risks are managed effectively, allowing them to focus on their core mission.

The Imperative of Cyber Kaizen in Your Career

As cyber professionals, we must apply the same Kaizen principles to our own careers. A thirst for knowledge and a commitment to improvement are essential to staying relevant in an ever-changing field. The risks and technologies of today will differ tomorrow, and only those embracing continual learning will thrive.

My message is simple: adopt a Cyber Kaizen approach. Whether managing cybersecurity risks or navigating your professional path, continuous improvement is the key. Doing so will protect your organisation and propel it toward success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Cyber Kaizen isn’t just a philosophy—it’s a necessity for businesses and cyber professionals alike. Let’s embrace it, lead with it, and thrive in the digital era.

About the Author

Paul C Dwyer, President of ICTTF International Cyber Threat Task Force, is a globally recognised expert in cybersecurity. Through initiatives like the ICTTF, he strives to bridge the skills gap, ensuring a cyber-resilient future for Europe.