We are all aware of how important cybersecurity is to our business, where a lapse or false move could result in large costs, damaged reputation and even a failed business. Sadly, this is not a threat which is going to go away, as data is just too valuable to hackers and cybercriminals.
However, that's not to say that you can't take the bull by the horns and be proactive in your cybersecurity. This is where a cybersecurity roadmap could be the best investment in your business you make for the coming year.
What is a cybersecurity roadmap?
A cybersecurity roadmap is a strategic plan that aligns your security systems and processes with your business goals. It identifies your current level of protection, highlights gaps, and sets out improvements needed to secure both your data and your clients’ data.
A strong roadmap also doubles as a disaster recovery plan, preparing your business for ransomware, phishing attacks, insider threats, or data breaches. Instead of reacting to issues as they appear, you’re building resilience into your business.
Whilst of course every business is different, with varying levels of security processes required, the key to creating a robust roadmap is to ensure it is data-driven rather than knee-jerk reactions to industry changes or current software or process trends.
1. Be Proactive!
Cybercriminals constantly change tactics, often faster than security software can keep up. Being reactive is no longer enough. Instead of running ad-hoc vulnerability scans, businesses need a long-term cybersecurity strategy. This includes:
- Scheduled patching and updates.
- Incident response playbooks.
- Planning for ransomware or phishing attacks.
2. Know the Starting and End Point
Begin by auditing your current processes and where they fall short. Then, define your business goals and how cybersecurity must evolve to support them.
Key questions to ask:
- What sensitive data do we process?
- Where is it stored, and who has access?
- Do access controls follow the principle of least privilege?
- Are we compliant with UK GDPR and Cyber Essentials?
This clarity ensures your roadmap is data-driven, not just reacting to the latest industry headlines.
3. Assess
Dig deeper into your vulnerabilities:
- How long is data retained?
- What accountability measures are in place if staff bypass processes?
- Is your IT team overstretched, creating risk through human error?
Include a risk assessment of your IT department itself. An under-resourced or overworked team can be as big a vulnerability as outdated software.
4. Set Clear Objectives
If you already use frameworks like ISO 27001 or CIS Controls, benchmark your gaps against them. Then, set out a step-by-step implementation plan, which might include:
- Improving access management.
- Enhancing employee onboarding/offboarding security.
- Enforcing MFA across all business apps.
- Conducting due diligence for third-party suppliers.
Breaking objectives into manageable phases avoids overwhelm and ensures continuous progress.
5. Commit to Continual Improvement
Cybersecurity is not a “one-and-done” project. Threats evolve, so your roadmap must evolve too. Regular testing, risk reviews, and updates are essential. Even after meeting initial objectives, new threats, technologies, and compliance requirements will emerge.
Think of your roadmap as a living document - constantly updated to stay relevant.
What Next?
Cybersecurity can feel overwhelming, but building a roadmap gives you clarity, focus, and confidence. It shifts your business from being reactive to resilient.
If you’d like support in creating your cybersecurity roadmap, contact SupportWise today. We’ll guide you through risk assessments, frameworks like Cyber Essentials, and phased implementation tailored to your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
At least annually, or whenever major changes occur (new software, mergers, regulations). Continuous review ensures your roadmap remains relevant.
A roadmap sets direction and priorities for future improvements, while policies define rules and behaviours staff must follow today.
By aligning with frameworks (Cyber Essentials, ISO 27001, NIST CSF), a roadmap ensures your organisation is audit-ready and reduces the risk of non-compliance fines.
No. SMEs benefit significantly. Roadmaps provide structure, help achieve certifications like Cyber Essentials, and make security investments cost-effective.