Episode 31 — Draft clear, enforceable policies people can follow without confusion
The primary failure of many security programs is the presence of policies that are either too vague to be enforced or too complex for the workforce to follow. This episode focuses on the art of drafting clear, actionable language that minimizes ambiguity and fosters a culture of compliance. We define "enforceability" as the ability to objectively measure whether a rule has been followed and to apply a consistent consequence if it has not. Best practices for the exam include avoiding "passive voice" and "weasel words" that can obscure the responsibility of the individual. Examples include replacing a vague statement like "passwords should be strong" with a specific requirement for length, complexity, and rotation. Practical application involves testing the clarity of your drafts with non-technical staff to identify potential points of confusion. By mastering the mechanics of policy drafting, you ensure that your governance is an effective tool for risk reduction rather than a source of organizational frustration and non-compliance. Produced by BareMetalCyber.com, where you’ll find more cyber audio courses, books, and information to strengthen your educational path. Also, if you want to stay up to date with the latest news, visit DailyCyber.News for a newsletter you can use, and a daily podcast you can commute with.
