During an organizational risk assessment, what is the best first action if corporate IT standards are outdated?

The best initial action during an organizational risk assessment when corporate IT standards are found to be outdated is to review the standards against current requirements. This step is essential because it allows the organization to identify any gaps between the existing standards and the current operational, regulatory, and technological landscapes. By carefully examining these standards in context, it becomes possible to ascertain what changes or updates are necessary to align them with contemporary best practices and compliance requirements.

Understanding the relevancy of standards with respect to current requirements lays the groundwork for informed decision-making. It helps identify specific areas that may pose vulnerabilities due to the outdated practices, which can then be prioritized for revision. This approach ensures a comprehensive update to the standards rather than making assumptions about their adequacy or frequency of update without first establishing where they stand relative to today's needs. This foundational assessment also fosters a more strategic and risk-aware approach to IT governance, effectively enhancing the overall resilience of the organization against potential threats.