Potential consequence and probability of occurrence is the factor that should be weighted most heavily when ordering risks in a risk matrix.

A risk matrix exists to compare risks by mapping impact and likelihood so the combination of Potential consequence and probability of occurrence produces the risk score that determines priority. Prioritizing by outcome and chance helps Meridian Payments direct limited resources to the threats that pose the greatest expected harm or that are most likely to happen.

Regulatory compliance requirements and deadlines are important drivers and they can force actions or change timelines but they do not replace the fundamental need to rank risks by impact and likelihood. Compliance may change how quickly a risk must be treated but it is not the primary metric in the matrix.

Level of concern expressed by executive leadership can influence risk appetite and resource allocation but it is subjective and variable. Leadership concern should inform decisions and communication but it should not be the main quantitative axis in a risk matrix.

Estimated cost to implement mitigation measures is a practical factor for selecting and scheduling treatments and for cost benefit analysis. Cost matters when choosing controls but it should not be the primary criterion used to order risks in the matrix.

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