controlsadministrative

Controlsadministrative, typically written as administrative controls, refers to non-technical measures designed to influence how people and processes behave to reduce risk. They are a foundational layer in risk management and security programs, complementing technical controls (such as access controls and encryption) and physical controls (such as badge access and locks). Administrative controls establish governance, policy, and procedures that guide daily operations.

Common examples include security policies, user access governance, role-based access controls, separation of duties, change and configuration management, incident response planning, disaster recovery and business continuity planning, training and awareness programs, background checks, vendor and third-party management, auditing and monitoring practices, and risk assessments. They also cover governance activities such as governance committees, policy reviews, and compliance reporting.

Implementation typically begins with a risk assessment to identify gaps and requirements, followed by formal documentation of procedures, assignment of roles and responsibilities, and ongoing training. Effectiveness depends on leadership commitment, clear accountability, and regular review. Compliance measurements and audits help verify adherence, and improvements are made through iterative governance cycles aligned with standards such as ISO/IEC 27001, NIST SP 800-53, or industry-specific regulations.

Limitations include reliance on human behavior and organizational culture; administrative controls can be bypassed or degraded through social engineering, fatigue, or misconduct. They are most effective when combined with technical controls and physical safeguards, providing a comprehensive defense-in-depth strategy.