Enhancing Smart Grid System Processes via Philosophy of Security

- Case Study based on Information Security Systems –

Amy Poh Ai Ling¹⁺, Sugihara Kokichi¹, and Mukaidono Masao²

¹Department of Mathematical Modeling Analysis, and Simulation

Graduate School of Advanced Mathematical Sciences

Meiji University

amypoh@meiji.ac.jp, kokichis@isc.meiji.ac.jp

²Department of Computer Science

School of Science and Technology

Meiji University

masao@cs.meiji.ac.jp

Abstract

A system is characterized as a group of ideas, functions or instruments that performs a particular function when put together. In order to sustain a good system, the organization must put continuous effort not only into its technical management but also into keeping an ear to the voice of the customer (VOC) to produce its desired outcome. The outcome refers to the product or service by which an organization survives or supports itself, such as information security systems in the smart grid. This paper focuses on the variable that could enhance the system processes of an information security system for the smart grid. Questionnaire surveys were carried out, followed by detailed, descriptive analysis. The statistical data portrayed consumer readiness towards the acceptance of smart grid. It also showed the understanding of the consumer towards the criteria identified. Outcomes from the descriptive analysis observed the essential ranking of information security consumer requirements. Results showed that the concern for privacy is the most important element among the other fifteen requirements. The extent to which private data is disclosed consequently determines the way or manner in which the population will perceive this information. Privacy to some degree comes across security, made up of, for instance, the concepts of appropriate use as well as the protection of data and information. The data from VOC showed that philosophy of security determines priorities in enhancing smart grid system processes. The philosophy category has the most powerful impact on consumer trust and satisfaction because the philosophy and strategy of management with regard to information security is the perfect standard against which technology and other security mechanisms can be measured. This statistical data could be referenced by utility providers or policy makers to strengthen information security systems of the smart grid. Correlation relationship ring and cluster concluded that the items in the hardware category are highly correlated to each other. Quality assured distributed devices have a high potential for solving significant process integrity security challenges. This paper gives insight into a picture of smart grid system information security’s future direction.

Keywords: System processes, security, philosophy, smart grid, privacy, trust

+: Corresponding author: Amy Poh Ai Ling

JSPS Research Fellow, Meiji Institute for Advanced Study of Mathematical Sciences, Meiji University

1-1-1 Higashimita, Tamaku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, JAPAN, Tel: +82-080-4168-3882

Journal of Wireless Mobile Networks, Ubiquitous Computing, and Dependable Applications (JoWUA),

Vol. 3, No. 3, pp. 94-113, September 2012 [pdf]