CISM Information Security Program Practice Question
A company is implementing a new security program. The CISO wants to ensure alignment with business objectives. Which approach is best?
⚠ Common exam trap
A common mix-up: candidates choose 'Perform a risk assessment' (Option C) because risk assessment is a foundational security activity, but the question asks for the 'best approach' to ensure alignment with business objectives, which requires a governance framework like COBIT that systematically links risk management to strategy, not just a one-time assessment.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Use the COBIT framework
The COBIT framework (Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies) is specifically designed to bridge the gap between IT governance and business goals, providing a comprehensive set of controls and processes that align security program objectives with enterprise strategy. Unlike other options, COBIT directly addresses governance, risk management, and performance measurement in a way that ensures the security program supports business objectives rather than operating in isolation.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Implement technical controls
Why it's wrong here
Technical controls are operational and not strategic for alignment.
- ✗
Develop policies based on industry standards
Why it's wrong here
Policies based on standards may not inherently align with specific business goals.
- ✗
Perform a risk assessment
Why it's wrong here
Risk assessment informs decisions but does not directly ensure alignment.
- ✓
Use the COBIT framework
Why this is correct
COBIT is designed for governance and alignment of IT with business objectives.
Go deeper
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CISM practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISACA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CISM exam.