Review: AVATIER ID MANAGEMENT SUITE

For: Easy-to-install and manage identity management
Against: Can get expensive
Verdict: Highly comprehensive identity management and user lifecycle management product

These are Password Station, which allows users to reset passwords without having to rely on IT or the helpdesk; Password Bouncer to enforce strict password policy; Account Terminator to ensure a user is properly deprovisioned when leaving the company; Account Creator to autfomate user enrollment; Account Requester for automated provisioning customisation; and Logon Station to create and manage enterprise-wide single sign-on. The phases blend together to become a one-stop-shop to manage users and their provisioning.

We found this product to be quite simple to use in spite of its massive size and functionality. Installation takes place on a domain member server running IIS. The actual installation is guided by several easy-to-follow wizards. Each of the various components has an intuitive management screen on both the administrative and user interface.

This product is a strong performer in an enterprise environment, thanks to its focus on automation. The Avatier Identity Management suite is completely web-based for easy and efficient management for both administrators and users. The former can quickly and effortlessly manage workflows, while users can easily sort out passwords and request access to resources. This product also integrates into the existing environment and is interoperable with almost any system.

Documentation includes a short quick-start guide and a very in-depth reference guide. Both are well-organised and easy to follow, with screenshots, illustrations and troubleshooting tips.

Support from Avatier is limited to phone and email. Customers with support contracts can submit an on-demand support request via the website or call technical support during office hours.

With a base price of £12 (A$26.79) per user, this product can get expensive very fast. Pricing also increases with additional features such as password policy enforcement, workflow etc.However, for its reasonable overall cost of ownership we find this product to be better than average value for money.

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