Identify a method of budgeting and differentiate its merits and deficiencies. Discuss how you would defend your security department’s budget to upper management. 

Zero-Based Budgeting is one method that you can use. The Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) method involves creating the budget every year from scratch, as opposed to just making small modifications. It allows greater flexibility when allocating budgets and makes sure that the spending decisions made are driven by current business needs rather than previous practices.

This approach has the ability to identify cost-saving opportunities by removing redundant and unnecessary tasks while maintaining optimal performance. In addition, the approach encourages managers and employees to be creative when it comes time to find new ways to do things that can lead to an increase in efficiency.

ZBB, on the other hand, requires a lot of time and planning to make it successful. This may not be possible for all companies. There is also a lack in clarity about how budgets are to be approved or evaluated, which can make it hard for managers to hold their team accountable when targets aren’t met.

To defend my security department’s budget I would start by presenting clear evidence demonstrating the value that our services provide for the company such as improved compliance with regulations; reduced risk of cyber attacks; and protection against potential fraud amongst others. I would highlight the fact that investing in security now can save you money down the road by reducing costs associated with dealing data breaches, costly lawsuits and so on. These factors will help upper management to understand the importance of adequate funding for our security department in order to achieve optimal results going forward.