Definition
An Asset is anything of value to an organisation that requires protection against loss, damage, unauthorised use or disclosure.
Human Explanation
An Asset may be a person, information, device, software application, process, service, building or the organisation's reputation.
Why it Matters
Something cannot be protected effectively until it has been identified as an Asset of value.
Conceptual Boundary
An Asset does not have to be digital. Any element important to the operation of an organisation may require protection.
Practical Perspective
An organisation's most valuable Assets are often its information and people's knowledge rather than its computer hardware.