What are the three main classifications of FISMA Metrics?

The three main classifications of FISMA Metrics are indeed identified as Administrative Priorities, Baseline Questions, and Key FISMA Metrics. Understanding these classifications is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of information security programs in federal agencies as mandated by the Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA).

• Administrative Priorities focus on the strategic alignment of security initiatives with overall organizational goals. This classification helps prioritize resource allocation and addresses areas that require immediate attention to improve an agency's security posture.

• Baseline Questions are foundational metrics intended to assess compliance with established standards and controls. They serve as a metric to measure adherence to minimum security requirements, ensuring that baseline security measures are in place across systems.

• Key FISMA Metrics are critical indicators that provide insights into the state of an agency's information security framework. These metrics are designed to evaluate the effectiveness of security programs in a quantifiable manner, facilitating performance tracking and improvement over time.

Collectively, these classifications provide a structured approach to measuring and managing the information security risks faced by federal agencies, thereby enhancing accountability and promoting continuous improvement in security practices. Understanding these three classifications is crucial for ensuring that FISMA metrics are effectively utilized in assessing security readiness and compliance.