What distinguishes qualitative vulnerability assessments from quantitative assessments?

Qualitative vulnerability assessments are distinguished by their focus on subjective factors when evaluating risks. This approach often involves expert judgment, experience, and the use of descriptive factors to understand the severity and potential impact of vulnerabilities. Rather than relying on numerical data or statistics, qualitative assessments provide a more narrative and contextual view of vulnerabilities, emphasizing the importance of expert insights and qualitative metrics such as the likelihood of exploitation, the potential impact on business operations, and the sensitivity of the affected assets.

This method is advantageous when comprehensive numerical data is not available or when the nature of the vulnerabilities requires a nuanced understanding that can only be captured through subjective analysis. Such assessments are particularly useful for prioritizing risks and developing strategic responses based on the potential consequences of identified vulnerabilities, which often can't be effectively categorized using solely quantitative metrics.