Self-provisioning definition
Self-provisioning is when companies allow users to get access to apps or resources without directly involving the IT department. Users typically use automated processes and portals to request and manage resources like tools, storage, or databases on demand.
See also: bare-metal provisioning
How self-provisioning works
- Users log into a self-provisioning portal (for example, a cloud platform or an internal company system).
- They browse available tools and choose what they need based on their work or project requirements.
- After choosing the resource, users may have options to change its settings (e.g., select the size of a virtual machine or set access permissions).
- Then, users submit a request for these resources. In some systems, provisioning might be automatic; in others, someone may need to approve it.
- The self-provisioning system automatically sets up the chosen resources for the user (e.g., allocating storage or granting access).
- Users can use the allocated resource, change settings, or delete it when no longer needed.
Benefits of self-provisioning
- Users can quickly get what they need without waiting.
- IT teams have less manual work because users set things up themselves.
- Users have more control over what they use and when.
- Products or services can be launched quicker since there's no delay in setting things up.
- It's cheaper because users only take what they need, and IT teams do less manual work.
- Users can easily change or adjust their resources as needed.
Self-provisioning limitations
- Without the IT department overseeing, users may use more resources than necessary, potentially leading to increased costs.
- Users may introduce security vulnerabilities without realizing it. For example, they may misconfigure resources or use non-compliant software.
- Different users may provision resources in different ways, which may lead to inconsistencies in the processes and potential integration challenges.
