How can you measure the ROI of your security testing?

1 Define your goals and scope

The first step to measure the ROI of your security testing is to define your goals and scope. What are the objectives and expectations of your security testing? What are the risks and threats that you want to prevent or reduce? What are the standards and regulations that you need to comply with? What are the features and functions that you want to test? How much time and resources do you have for security testing? By answering these questions, you can set clear and realistic goals and scope for your security testing project.

2 Choose your security testing types and methods

The next step is to choose the appropriate security testing types and methods for your goals and scope. Security testing can be classified into different types, such as vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, code review, security audit, and ethical hacking. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and requires different skills and tools. You should select the security testing types and methods that suit your application's characteristics, requirements, and risks. You should also consider the cost, time, and quality of each security testing type and method.

3 Track and measure your security testing results

The third step in the process is to track and measure your security testing results. You should collect and analyze data and metrics that can demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of your security testing, such as the number and severity of vulnerabilities detected and fixed, the time and cost of security testing and remediation, the coverage and completeness of security testing, the security quality and compliance of the application, customer satisfaction and trust, and business value and reputation. To capture, store, and visualize these metrics, you should use tools such as dashboards, reports, and charts.

4 Compare and benchmark your security testing performance

The fourth step is to compare and benchmark your security testing performance. You need to evaluate your security testing results against your goals and scope, as well as against industry standards and best practices. You should also compare your security testing performance with your competitors and peers, and identify your strengths and weaknesses. By doing this, you can assess how well you are achieving your security testing objectives, and how you can improve your security testing processes and practices.

5 Calculate your security testing ROI

The final step is to calculate your security testing ROI. To determine the value and impact of your security testing, you need to quantify the benefits and costs and compare them. Formulas and models can assist in estimating the ROI of your security testing, such as ROI = (Benefits - Costs) / Costs. Benefits include the number of vulnerabilities fixed multiplied by the average cost per vulnerability, as well as the number of security incidents avoided multiplied by the average cost per incident, plus the number of customers retained or acquired multiplied by the average revenue per customer. Costs include time multiplied by an hourly rate, tools and licenses, training and certification, and other expenses. Additionally, qualitative and intangible benefits and costs should be considered, such as customer loyalty, brand reputation, competitive advantage, and regulatory compliance.