Introduction
Automation is often cited as a key driver for investing in Identity and Access Management, yet it’s sometimes treated as an afterthought. Automating repetitive tasks not only reduces cost and human error but also enhances security and improves the user experience. This article explains why automation matters and where to apply it within IAM.
Why Automate in IAM?
Manual processes are slow, error‑prone and inconsistent. Whether onboarding a new hire, granting access to a new application or resetting a forgotten password, delays impact productivity and create security gaps. Automation ensures that tasks are executed quickly and the same way every time, reducing risk and freeing staff to focus on more strategic work.
Key Areas Needing Automation
Joiners, Movers and Leavers (JML)
The JML process covers the lifecycle of a user’s accounts and permissions.
• Joiners: When someone joins the organisation, create all necessary accounts and assign baseline access (e.g., email, HR systems) automatically. • Movers: When a user changes roles or departments, adjust permissions accordingly. Automation ensures privileges are added and removed based on updated attributes. • Leavers: When someone leaves, disable or delete all accounts promptly. Automation prevents orphaned accounts and the associated security risks.
Access Requests
Users often need additional access beyond their default permissions—perhaps for a temporary project or a new application. Manual request fulfilment can take days. Automated workflows allow users to request access via a self‑service portal, trigger approval chains (two‑eye, four‑eye or quorum), and provision access instantly once approved.
Password Resets
Forgotten passwords account for a large share of helpdesk calls. Self‑service password reset (SSPR) lets users verify their identity and reset their credentials without contacting support. This reduces downtime and ensures that passwords are changed securely rather than manually set by administrators.
Tools and Approaches
Automation can be achieved through:
• Identity Governance and Administration (IGA) platforms: Comprehensive solutions that manage provisioning, deprovisioning, approvals and policy enforcement across systems. • Workflow engines and scripts: For smaller environments or specific tasks, scripts and workflow tools can automate user management. • API integrations and connectors: Modern SaaS applications often provide APIs that allow automated account creation, modification and removal.
The key is to ensure that whatever tool you choose integrates with your identity stores, applications and endpoints, and that it enforces security policies consistently.
Conclusion
Automation isn’t optional in modern IAM—it’s essential. By automating the joiner–mover–leaver process, access requests and password resets, you reduce risk, improve efficiency and deliver a better experience for both users and administrators. Start by identifying your high‑volume, high‑impact processes and evaluate tools that can streamline them.
