The Organizational Imperative for Zero Trust: A Multi-Method Analysis of Key Drivers

This study examines the transition to zero-trust (ZT) security strategies in response to modern cybersecurity challenges. By leveraging trust management theory and principal-agent theory, we analyzed the factors influencing ZT initiatives through structured interviews with 28 cybersecurity experts and a survey of 267 professionals. Key findings reveal that management factors like organizational culture, costs, and investments significantly affect ZT implementation, while operations, process changes, and compliance have less impact. This research provides theoretical insights and practical guidance for organizations looking to enhance their ZT initiatives, emphasizing ZT as a proactive approach to trust management and business continuity.