From providing you with a better understanding of your organisation’s IT systems, to drilling down on the details when it comes to your IT infrastructure and security, we know why an IT systems audit is important.
Now… you’ve made it here, which means it’s likely time to take the next step on your IT systems audit journey as you find ways to use technology to better your business. We’ll give you the tools and insights you need, so that you understand how to audit IT systems effectively and set yourself up for success.
1. Document Your IT Devices and Processes
Part of the fun is getting to know what you’re working with when it comes to your organisation’s IT devices and processes. When we say IT devices, we’re essentially referring to anything that has the ability to store information – think computers, hard drives, servers, mobile phones, tablets, printers and the like. When it comes to processes, you’re looking at anything in place that helps to support or manage devices and networks, the onboarding or offboarding of employees, internal service requests, cybersecurity and more.
Documenting your IT devices and processes can be overwhelming and time consuming, but it’s the essential first step in helping your organisation take control of its security and efficiency.
2. Identify Strengths and Weaknesses
As you document your organisation’s devices and processes, you’ll naturally start to think about strengths and weaknesses when it comes to information technology, which brings us to the second step. You know your organisation best, but it’s here you’ll learn things that you might not have been aware of before.
While strengths and weaknesses can be dependent on the industry your organisation operates in and often require expertise to truly understand, there are some key things to look out for. The standardisation of procedures, as well as quick and easy access to procedure knowledge, are examples of IT strengths. However, you may have outdated hardware, software and operating systems, which are examples of IT system weaknesses as these would leave your organisation vulnerable to potential data breaches and cyber attacks.
3. Undertake a Cybersecurity Review
Staying ahead of hackers and fraudsters is always on our bingo card, and for good reason. We know what it takes for organisations to succeed in this space, but we’ve also seen first-hand how bad things can get when cybersecurity is not prioritised. Cyber attacks can have financial, legal and reputational ramifications for your organisation, so you don’t want to leave anything to chance. A cybersecurity review should always be covered in your IT systems audit, and while it can be complicated and tedious (unless you’re us), the benefits are worth it.
You can start with the Essential Eight, which gives you standard industry strategies to help mitigate cyber threats, while also protecting your systems, data, policies and procedures. Your cybersecurity review should not only help you assess the lay of the land, but it should also serve as a reminder to keep looking forward, to ensure your organisation is in a proactive mindset when it comes to IT; not a reactive one.
4. Consult an External IT Service Provider
Whether you’re looking to leave IT management to the experts, or your organisation is looking for an extension of your dedicated in-house team, consulting an external IT service provider for your IT systems audit is a great way to gain new perspectives, free up your internal resources and ensure everything is covered.
While this checklist is a great start, we’re always here if you’d like to get in touch. With experience servicing businesses across Australia and a passion for finding the best ways forward for your organisation, our team of specialists will take care of your IT systems audit free-of-charge.