At some point in your role managing Android and ChromeOS devices, you’ll likely need to audit your organization’s tech stack. Whether it’s part of a regular schedule or prompted by major software contract reviews, understanding how and why these audits are essential is crucial. Whether you’re leading the project or assisting, here’s what you need to know about conducting effective audits.
Why Audit Your Tech Stack?
Auditing your tech stack involves asking critical questions about the software and services your organization utilizes. Key inquiries include:
Duplicates: Are there redundant software tools within your organization?
Effectiveness: Are current tools still meeting organizational needs effectively?
Budget: Is there potential to save costs without compromising functionality?
The specific focus and goals of the audit may vary based on who initiated it, such as the CFO aiming to reduce costs or the CTO prioritizing efficiency.
What Are You Going to Review?
Before proceeding, it’s important to clarify what constitutes your organization’s “tech stack.”
Traditionally, a tech stack refers to the suite of technologies used in web application development. However, the term has evolved to encompass all tools utilized by a business, including those specific to departments and organization-wide solutions like email and productivity software.
How the Tech Stack Has Changed
The landscape of software acquisition has evolved significantly. With the rise of SaaS, individuals and departments can adopt tools independently, leading to shadow IT.
Audits provide an opportunity to discover the full spectrum of tools in use across the organization.
How to Audit the Tech Stack
Several methods can facilitate the discovery process:
Financial records
Single sign-on (SSO) infrastructure
Direct communication with department heads and end-users
Initiating conversations early fosters transparency and collaboration throughout the audit process.
When to Do the Audit
Audits may be scheduled regularly or prompted by specific events such as budget cycles or software contract renewals.
Allow ample time for both discovery and assessment phases of the audit.
Assessing Your Tech Stack
Key questions to address during the assessment include:
Do you have duplicate tools?
Is there something better suited to your organization’s needs?
Analyzing usage data can help identify redundant or outdated tools.
Updating Your Tech Stack
Upon completing the assessment, consider factors such as functionality, cost, and security when deciding whether to retain or replace tools.
Engage with team leaders to discuss potential alternatives and evaluate the feasibility of switching.
Formally incorporate approved tools into the organization’s stack, ensuring compliance and security measures are met.
Conducting a thorough audit enables IT to provide leadership with visibility into tool usage and promote efficient resource allocation.
Conclusion
Auditing your organization’s tech stack for Android and ChromeOS devices is essential for optimizing efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring security. By conducting regular audits and engaging with stakeholders, IT teams can streamline operations and support organizational objectives effectively.
