Control Effectiveness
Definition
The degree to which a security control achieves its intended objective under real operating conditions. Measured through a combination of design review (is the control built correctly?) and operating effectiveness testing (is the control functioning correctly over time?). Continuous monitoring provides evidence for operating effectiveness.
- Assessed via
- Design review plus operating effectiveness testing
- Evidence source
- Continuous monitoring data
- Measures
- Real operating conditions, not just intent
Common questions
What is the difference between a control's design and its operating effectiveness?+
Design review asks whether the control would achieve its objective if performed as specified; operating effectiveness testing checks whether it is actually being performed correctly and consistently over time.
How does continuous monitoring support an operating effectiveness conclusion?+
It supplies ongoing evidence across a period rather than a single point-in-time sample, letting an assessor see whether the control held up consistently instead of just on the day it was tested.
Related terms
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