IAM on the frontline: Supporting modernization without disruption
Modernization is transforming manufacturing. But access delays, login issues, and mismatched systems can bring progress to a halt. Learn how modern IAM keeps your teams productive and secure, so innovation never slows down the line.
Manufacturing modernization is happening in real time. New systems are being deployed, cloud tools are replacing on-prem apps, and smart devices are making their way to the factory floor. But even as operations evolve, one thing stays the same: production can’t pause.
To keep up with change, manufacturers need access systems that evolve too. When identity and access management (IAM) keep pace with modernization, teams stay productive. But when access falls behind, new technology can feel more like a hurdle than a help.
When modernization slows teams down
The shift to modern architectures creates access bottlenecks. Legacy and cloud systems often don’t talk to each other. That means workers are stuck juggling logins, switching credentials, or waiting for access they should already have. During rollouts, access updates are often the last step, which leaves frontline teams struggling to keep up.
In high-output environments, even minor delays can lead to big slowdowns. Without streamlined access systems, inconsistent login experiences and delayed provisioning can reduce operational efficiency and hinder adoption of new technologies, particularly in mixed IT/OT environments). Without streamlined access systems, these challenges directly affect productivity.
Meanwhile, IT is left scrambling. Without consistent IAM policies, enforcing security gets harder with every new system that comes online.
IAM built for hybrid environments
IAM helps manufacturers modernize without disrupting operations. It gives workers a common way to access the tools they need, no matter where those tools live: on-premises or in the cloud.
That means fewer passwords to remember and less downtime caused by login issues.
For example, when technicians move from one line to another, their access should update instantly. IAM makes that possible. And when your systems span different locations and device types, IAM keeps the experience consistent, so people don’t have to relearn workflows every time something changes.
Keeping productivity high during change
Modernization often introduces new logins, interfaces, or tools. But IAM keeps the access experience consistent and familiar, reducing the need for retraining and minimizing workflow disruption. For manufacturers managing both legacy equipment and modern platforms, IAM ensures that access policies follow workers across systems, keeping operations efficient during every stage of change.
By aligning access to roles, manufacturers can onboard people faster and move them between jobs without delay. It also means less time spent fixing login issues and more time spent producing.
A better way to roll out change
Start by identifying where access is slowing people down. Shared devices, high-churn roles, and older systems are usually top offenders. Prioritize these areas for IAM implementation first.
When it comes to tracking login times, errors, and wait periods, access analytics is your roadmap to improvement. Use this valuable data to identify the big pain points and see where IAM is delivering results.
Also, support your rollout with training and communication. Let teams know what’s changing and why. Provide clear steps and appoint team champions to lead adoption. When people understand how IAM helps them work faster, they’re more likely to embrace it.
Closing the modernization gap
You don’t have to rip and replace everything to modernize. But you do need access systems that make old and new tech work together.
IAM bridges that gap. It keeps your workforce moving, even as your tech stack evolves. And it makes modernization something you can build into your operations without breaking what already works.
Because when access keeps up, your people do too.