Ensuring information security as a determinant of the competitive development of an enterprise

Abstract

In the current conditions of digital transformation of the economy, ensuring information security is becoming an integral part of the strategic development of enterprises and a determining factor in their competitiveness. The purpose of the study is to determine the role of information security as a strategic factor that affects the competitiveness of enterprises in the conditions of digital transformation of the economy. Methods. The methodological basis of the study is a multifactor analysis of factors that influence enterprises' decisions to invest in information security. The study uses elements of structural-functional, systemic and comparative analysis to study internal and external determinants that shape the security policy of the enterprise. In particular, factors such as regulatory requirements, the level of digital maturity, the availability of IT infrastructure, reputational risks, experience with cyber threats, as well as strategic priorities of management were investigated. Results. The barriers that hinder the effective implementation of information security (financial, technical, organizational), as well as the incentives (regulatory, economic, reputational and strategic) that contribute to the formation of a proactive security policy, are systematized. A conceptual approach to analyzing the relationship between the level of information security and the competitiveness of an enterprise is proposed, which allows assessing the effectiveness of management decisions in this area. It is established that the integration of cyber protection measures into the business strategy increases the resilience of enterprises to external threats, strengthens their market positions and promotes the development of digital culture. Conclusions. The feasibility of further research aimed at developing models for assessing the effectiveness of investments in information security, taking into account the specifics of enterprises of various scales, is proven. The presented results are of practical importance for business managers, information security specialists and researchers working in the field of digital risk management.