Having a web based Active Directory update tool allows IT to delegate Active Directory updates to the end user. But you can do more than just put it out there and hope that end users decide to give you their cell phone number or emergency contact. You can annoy them until they give you the information you need and the business requires.
- Let’s start with what you know…using a free Active Directory reporting tool, you know that there are X number of users that haven’t filled out their cell phone number.
- Then, using a dynamic distribution list, write a query that any user who has no content in the cell phone number, and makes them a member of the group. You can use a QBDL for this actually.
- Send that group an email with a link to your web based Active Directory portal where they can fill in the cell phone number.
- For the fields that you are harassing them about, I would not recommend workflows, but as a best practice, most fields should have workflow on them (true story, an ex-colleague promoted himself using a homegrown tool and actually got away with it for several months).
- Also, for things like cell phone numbers, place a mask on the field so that they can’t just enter gobbledygook.
- Once they update the cell phone number, that user no longer satisfies the query that places them in the dynamic distribution group and will stop receiving the emails.
This is an incredibly efficient closed loop system that will almost guarantee that users will follow your instructions. Most people can ignore one email but once it is established that you will NOT STOP they will just comply to make the emails go away.
We can give a demonstration of how a fully integrated solution works or you can try a free 30 day trial of GroupID to see for yourself.
Jonathan Blackwell
View ProfileSince 2012, Jonathan Blackwell, an engineer and innovator, has provided engineering leadership that has put GroupID at the forefront of group and user management for Active Directory and Azure AD environments. His experience in development, marketing, and sales allows Jonathan to fully understand the Identity market and how buyers think.