The Road to Compliance: Executive Federal Agencies and the NIST Risk Management Framework (2405.07094v1)

Abstract: This informative report provides a comprehensive analysis of how executive federal report agencies implement the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Risk Management Framework (RMF) to achieve cybersecurity compliance. By exploring the concept and evolution of the RMF, the report delves into the framework's importance for enhancing cybersecurity measures within federal agencies, addressing the challenges these agencies face in the digital landscape. Through a methodical literature review, the report examines theoretical foundations, implementation strategies, and the critical role of continuous monitoring and automation in RMF processes, drawing from key sources like Ross (2014), Lubell (2020), Barrett et al. (2021), and Pillitteri et al. (2021, 2022), among others. Employing a detailed methodology for data collection and analysis, the report presents findings on the successes and challenges of RMF implementation, highlighting the impact of automation and continuous monitoring in bolstering cybersecurity postures. Case studies offer in-depth insights into the experiences of specific agencies, providing lessons learned and best practices. The report concludes with strategic recommendations for overcoming implementation challenges and suggests future directions for enhancing RMF research and practice. This investigation underscores the RMF's critical role in establishing robust cybersecurity compliance across executive federal agencies, offering valuable recommendations for policymakers, cybersecurity professionals, and governmental bodies.