Why Weighting Matters (Scorecard Explainer)

Why SMEs need a better way to compare cyber security vendors

Cyber security vendors don’t make comparison easy. They use different language, different pricing models, different promises and different definitions of “support”. That’s how SMEs end up comparing apples to oranges — or buying something that looks impressive but doesn’t actually reduce risk.

A weighted scorecard changes that. It gives you a structured, defensible way to compare vendors based on what matters most to your business, not what matters most to a sales deck.

What a weighted scorecard actually does

A weighted scorecard recognises that not all risks are equal. Some failures are more expensive, harder to fix and more damaging to your business than others. Instead of treating every category as equal, weighting reflects real‑world impact.

For example:

• A vendor with weak compliance can expose you to fines, legal issues and lost clients.
• A vendor with weak accountability can leave you alone during an incident.
• A vendor with poor integration can disrupt operations and create new vulnerabilities.

These risks are not equal — so the scoring shouldn’t be either. Weighting makes sure the most critical areas carry the most influence on your final decision.

Why these categories are weighted the way they are

The scorecard you’re about to use is built around seven categories. Each one has a weighting multiplier based on how much it affects SME resilience, compliance and continuity.

• Compliance & Data Protection (x3): If a vendor mishandles data, you are still legally responsible. This is one of the biggest risk areas for SMEs.
• Risk & Accountability (x3): When something goes wrong, you need clarity, not finger‑pointing. This determines whether your business survives an incident.
• Integration & Compatibility (x2): If a solution doesn’t fit your existing tools, it can create more problems than it solves.
• Use‑Case Fit (x2): A vendor must solve your specific problems, not generic ones.
• Business Alignment (x1.5): Understanding your sector and constraints prevents overselling and mis‑scoping.
• People & Process Support (x1.5): Security fails when staff don’t understand or adopt the solution.
• Cost Transparency (x1): Cost matters, but hidden risks matter more. Price alone should not drive the decision.

Why this approach works for SMEs

This weighted model is designed for real‑world SME decision‑making. It cuts through jargon, forces vendors to be specific and highlights red flags early. It gives you a fair way to compare proposals and a decision you can justify to boards, insurers and clients.

In practice, it helps you:

• Focus on outcomes, not features.
• Ask the right questions in vendor meetings.
• Spot weak areas before you sign a contract.
• Compare vendors on the same basis, not on who presents better.
• Document why you chose one supplier over another.

Why this tool is easy and safe to use

You don’t need a technical background to use the scorecard. You don’t need to understand security acronyms or frameworks. You simply score each vendor on what you can see, hear and verify.

The interactive scorecard runs entirely in your browser. No data is stored, uploaded or shared. There are no logins, cookies or tracking. It is as safe as using a calculator on your device.

Perfect for workshops, board meetings or vendor calls

The scorecard is designed to work smoothly on tablets, laptops and phones. SME leaders use it:

• During vendor demos and discovery calls.
• In board or leadership meetings when reviewing options.
• When comparing proposals side by side.
• As part of due diligence before signing a contract.
• When shortlisting suppliers for a second round.
• When negotiating terms and clarifying responsibilities.

It gives you instant feedback, so you can see at a glance whether a vendor looks like a strong strategic partner, a borderline risk or a poor match for your business.

Use the Interactive Vendor Scorecard