What is a key focus when performing a FAIR analysis?

The key focus when performing a FAIR analysis is on probable outcomes based on data. This approach emphasizes the importance of using empirical data and information to assess the likelihood and potential impact of different risk scenarios. FAIR (Factor Analysis of Information Risk) aims to quantify risk in a way that is meaningful and actionable, ensuring that decision-makers can rely on actual probability distributions, rather than just theoretical assessments or speculative ideas.

This focus allows organizations to go beyond simplistic "high, medium, low" categorizations by providing a more nuanced understanding of risk. It encourages the use of historical data, statistical methods, and expert judgment to derive probabilities and impacts, fostering better decision-making related to risk management.

In contrast, considering possibilities of all events occurring could lead to an overwhelming and unfocused analysis, while maximizing worst-case scenarios may result in unnecessarily cautious strategies that do not account for practical contexts. Collecting irrelevant data would detract from the main objectives of the analysis, as it could cloud understanding and divert resources away from critical risk factors.