The Election Security Planner (ESP) tool is a web application that helps you find gaps in your cybersecurity efforts with quick yes or no questions. You answer them and click through to a list of your cybersecurity gaps and suggestions for services that address them.
The ESP tool mirrors our Pay-For Cybersecurity Services brochure in focusing on six essential and eleven advanced cybersecurity services:
| Basic Services | Advanced Services | |
| Staff Training and Awareness | Encrypted/Offline Backups | Intrusion Detection |
| Multifactor Authentication | Software and Patch Mgmt. | Penetration Testing |
| Vulnerability Scanning | Log Management | Ransomware Readiness |
| Protective DNS | Security Info/Event Mgmt. | Threat Intel |
| Phishing Assessment | Network Monitoring | Zero Trust Architecture |
| Endpoint Detection/Response | Network Segmentation |
The ESP tool’s questions are technical. You likely will want to work with an IT staff member, partner, or vendor to complete the questionnaire and assess the suggestions the tool gives you.
Key Features of the ESP Tool
- Questionnaire Preview: Download the questionnaire to review with your IT partner before using the tool.
- Private and Secure: Your answers are not stored or transmitted; responses are only saved temporarily in your browser and deleted when the tab is closed.
- The tool is hosted by the Partnership for Large Election Jurisdictions (PLEJ).
- Yes/No Format: Answers lead directly to provider suggestions.
- Prioritized Recommendations: Your security context dictates the prioritized list of suggested services.
- Detailed Service Info:
- Description of the service
- Estimated cost range (from small to large jurisdictions)
- Implementation effort level
- Links to competing vendors
- Downloadable Output: Save or print your results as a PDF.
- Additional Resources: Links to guides on integrating new services and technologies, leading cybersecurity conversations, and navigating state procurement options.
The Resource Library section of the newsletter spotlights election security resources. All highlighted resources are available online in the Resource Library.