What defines the effectiveness of a provisioning policy?

The effectiveness of a provisioning policy is largely determined by the clarity of attribute mappings. In the context of identity and access management, attribute mappings refer to the way user attributes in an identity system are related to those in target systems where access is being provisioned. Clear and well-defined attribute mappings ensure that the correct information is sent to the right systems, facilitating accurate provisioning of access rights and roles.

When the mappings are clear, it reduces the chances of errors, such as incorrect access being granted or user information being misaligned across systems. This clarity also aids in simplifying the integration process with various applications and services, making it easier for administrators to manage identities effectively. Moreover, clear attribute mappings enhance the overall user experience by ensuring that users receive the access they need on the first attempt, reducing frustration and administrative overhead.

While the number of policies created, the level of testing conducted, and the complexity of identity scenarios can play important roles in establishing a strong identity governance framework, they do not directly determine how effectively a provisioning policy operates. Clarity in mappings is fundamental to ensure that the policy functions as intended, making it the cornerstone of effective provisioning.