Strategic consulting grows

ISG Study on the German Cybersecurity Market

Cybersecurity is becoming enterprise security. Two factors are driving the change particularly strongly. First, the size of attack surfaces and the number of attack points are increasing massively. Second, the ability of attackers to vary their methods is growing, and they are constantly using new techniques, such as forms of artificial intelligence (AI). Although the complexity and scope of attacks are increasing sharply, most companies have no choice but to continue digitizing their business processes at an unabated pace in order to remain competitive. Against this backdrop, it is becoming essential for cybersecurity providers to further develop strategic consulting expertise in addition to their operational capabilities.

Only then will the security industry be in a position to satisfy the information and coordination needs that are also increasingly being brought to it by the specialist departments and top management. For example, with regard to ensuring OT security, which manufacturing managers have to organize, or protecting against uncontrolled data outflows, for which top management is ultimately responsible. The resulting increase in the importance of strategic consulting is one of the core findings of the new provider comparison "ISG Provider Lens Cybersecurity - Solutions and Services Report for Germany".

In it, the market research and consulting firm Information Services Group (ISG) examines the portfolio and competitive strength of 97 service and product providers operating in the German market. "More than ever, it is important in cybersecurity to focus on the early phases of value creation in particular. For example, when it comes to hardening the design of a new product or process in terms of security," says Frank Heuer, Lead Analyst Cyber Security DACH at ISG. Those who set the course early on at this level, Heuer continues, have completely different options for being able to proceed proactively in subsequent cyber defense and actually be a significant step ahead of the attackers. In addition, there is a much more precise picture of the situation, so that defense resources can be directed to where they are most urgently needed.