How Community Colleges Can Cut IT Costs & Improve Security with IAM

Community colleges face unique IT challenges—limited staff, tight budgets, and a constantly changing student population. Managing user access and security while ensuring a seamless experience for students and faculty can be overwhelming. Implementing Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions such as Single Sign-On (SSO), Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR), and Adaptive Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) can significantly reduce IT workload while improving security and user experience.

SSO: Simplifying Access to Multiple Applications

Students and faculty juggle multiple applications daily, from learning management systems to financial aid portals. SSO streamlines access by allowing users to log in once and gain entry to all integrated applications without needing multiple credentials. This not only enhances user convenience but also reduces password-related helpdesk tickets, freeing up IT staff for more strategic tasks.

• A study by Gartner found that organizations implementing SSO saw a 50% reduction in password reset requests, leading to substantial IT support cost savings.
• Enhanced user experience translates to higher student engagement and reduced login-related frustrations, improving digital adoption.

SSPR: Empowering Users, Reducing IT Burden

Password resets are among the most common IT support requests. With Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR), students and faculty can securely reset their passwords without IT intervention. By integrating secure authentication methods such as phone verification or security questions, institutions can minimize downtime while improving user satisfaction. This also ensures that IT teams can focus on more critical initiatives rather than routine password resets.

• According to Forrester Research, each password reset request costs IT teams an average of $70. Automating this process can lead to significant annual savings for institutions.
• Faster access to educational resources ensures that students can stay productive without IT-related disruptions.

Adaptive MFA: Strengthening Security Without Compromising Usability

Community colleges must balance security with ease of access. Adaptive MFA adds an extra layer of protection by dynamically adjusting authentication requirements based on risk factors such as login location, device type, or user behavior. This ensures that high-risk login attempts trigger additional verification while maintaining a seamless experience for trusted users.

• Research from Ponemon Institute shows that organizations using Adaptive MFA experience 60% fewer security breaches.
• Compliance with cybersecurity regulations is improved, reducing legal risks and potential fines.

Integration with Existing Systems

To maximize the benefits of IAM solutions, community colleges should ensure seamless integration with their existing IT ecosystem:

• SIS Platforms: Banner, PeopleSoft, Jenzabar, Colleague, etc.
• LMS Platforms: Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, D2L, etc.

Why These IAM Solutions Matter for Community Colleges

• Reduced IT Workload: Automating access management and password resets means fewer support tickets and less manual intervention.
• Enhanced Security: Protects sensitive student and faculty data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
• Improved User Experience: Simplifies login processes, reducing frustration and increasing engagement with digital resources.
• Cost Savings: Reduces dependency on IT support staff, allowing budget allocation to other institutional priorities.

Taking the Next Step

Implementing IAM solutions like SSO, SSPR, and Adaptive MFA can transform how community colleges manage security and access. By investing in automation and secure authentication, institutions can create a more efficient and user-friendly digital environment.

Research References:

• Gartner, "Identity and Access Management Best Practices," 2024
• Forrester Research, "The Total Economic Impact of Password Management," 2024
• Ponemon Institute, "The Cost of a Data Breach Report," 2024

Ready to Enhance Security & Efficiency?

Don't let IT challenges slow down your institution. Discover how our IAM solutions can streamline access, reduce workload, and enhance security. Schedule a demo today and empower your community college with seamless, secure authentication!