Are You Making These Identity Management Mistakes?

James Helliwell

July 14, 2017

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With identity management, organisations can have a digital profile of users with clearly drafted policies on what business applications and data they can be allowed to access. With proper identity management, critical apps and data are shielded from unauthorised access through the use of authentication layers. As cloud-based applications drive the adoption of identity managements, many businesses are still making mistakes with the identity management strategy. This piece takes a look at these mistakes and how you can avoid them.

Poor Planning

One common mistake in identity management is the rollout of new software without proper planning. Poorly planned rollouts do not only end up as financial drains but they can have a negative impact on business processes. Since identity management involves control of app and data access, which is a key component of the daily process, holistic planning with software roll outs is a must. The strategy should be for the long term and goals must be identified before implementation.

Poor Product Choice

The popularity of a tool doesn’t always translate to being the best option for a business. You need to keep in mind the fact that identity management solutions are long term and ensure your decision is backed by deep reason. If a product doesn’t at least six business requirements, you do not need it. When you have made a list of your requirements, find a vendor that delivers. Some of the best solutions like the identity and access management by ProofID offer flexibility that allows you to work in specific requirements. When there is a focus with the purchase of products, widespread adoption and acceptance is easier.

Absence of Dedicated Identity Management Desk

Many businesses are making the mistake of treating identity management with kid gloves. This leads to a non-existent identity management desk or one that is overburdened. It is important to note that identity management involves management of user needs and concerns regarding the authentication process integration of old and new software, overseeing of user activity audits and general management of application and data access. The complexity of the process means that it is important for businesses to have a dedicated desk for identity management. This is vital to avoid overworked general IT desks or a completely inefficient desk.

Inadequate Engagement

When your IT desk isn’t transparent enough with users, it could lead to non-cooperation. If your identity management strategy isn’t transparent enough for end users, goals and objectives will not be achieved. The average user will not immediately accept the need for authentication in order to use everyday data that is relevant to them unless this has been thoroughly explained. Employees must be brought on board the identity management process and be also encouraged to share their needs and concerns. Some of the recommendations, based on everyday usage of solutions should be explored as well. By encouraging communication, people will be less likely to feel alone when there is a legitimate reason to voice something out.

The importance of identity management as a service in today’s cloud-centric business ecosystem cannot be overemphasised. These mistakes, however, will truncate inherent benefits if ignored.