Using systems dynamics for human resources management in information systems security
Purpose - To enable quantitative and qualitative modelling of information systems security management that takes into account technology and human factor. Design/methodology/approach - The approach is based on systems dynamics and it is done in two phases. In the first phase two basic qualitative models are developed, while in the second phase a possibility to further develop them into quantitative models is studied. Findings - Appropriate approach to IS security management requires addressing "hard" and "soft" factors. Further, to enable quantitative study of such systems, which are highly non-linear, exact analytical (mathematically rigorous) treatment is close to impossible. Thus, computer simulations have to be used. One appropriate methodological answer to the above requirements is systems (business) dynamics. Research limitations/implications - Research limitations are partially related to system dynamics, which operates on an aggregates level. This prevents or makes harder study of phenomena at the micro level, from where the above-mentioned aggregates emerge. Further, many sub-areas need further standardisation to enable more realistic simulations - one such case is security policy standardisation and quantification. Similar holds true for threats/vulnerabilities and related taxonomies. Practical implications - The research presents one of first steps in the direction that could provide quantitative models for effective IS security policy management in organisations. Originality/value - The research presents two models, one for risk management and the other, which is a generic model that identifies basic variables that have to be addressed for IS security management. Further, findings can be used for security awareness courses.
cybernetics systems theory human resource strategies