Identity Management Success

The most successful Identity (IDMS) deployment projects, are completed by logical, concentric teams, which are formed specifically for the purpose. Resist the tendency to rehash existing internal models, or follow political boundaries. Identity deployments are inherently cross-functional, matrixed, multidisciplinary projects. Select the most appropriate resource, not the most “available” or “politically expedient.”

With the caveat that each organization, vertical market, and project has its own unique requirements, here are some general skill sets and project roles that can be leveraged for a highly effective internal Identity Deployment Team:

• Java Security Developer - Configuration, reporting, customization, deployment
• Infrastructure Specialist - Networking/Switching, Server Configuration, Storage, High Availability
• Application Developer - With ability to make changes to internally developed applications
• Compliance Officer / Legal Representative - Ensures that Identity infrastructure conforms to domestic and international privacy, encryption, and retention guidelines
• Project Architect - Designs the Identity infrastructure, in conjunction with any outside vendor(s)
• Identity Subject Matter Experts (SME) - Serves role as Project Technical Lead, and has the capacity to “tie it all together” from the Identity and Access Management perspective
• Program Manager - Manages the Identity and Access program, from a project or PMO perspective. Generally, there will also be one or more Project Managers working within the program to execute on various sub-projects.
• Business Process Manager - Captures current state workflows and business processes, designs future state workflows, and manages creation of workflows within the IDMS
• Role Modeler - Uses current and projected organizational charts and employee classification databases to model roles. Roles are used within the IDMS to provision accounts and manage access controls. Person in this role often comes from the HR department.
• Training Liaison - Creates and manages end-user and administrative training for the new IDMS and Identity Management processes.

The preceding guidelines may require modification for your organization, and are not intended to be comprehensive for all situations. However, referencing these guidelines during the Identity Team formation stage, will dramatically increase your chances of a successful and comprehensive IDMS deployment.